5 Let me go to the leadersand speak with them;For they must know the way of the Lord,the justice of their God.But, one and all, they have broken the yoke,torn off the harness.
6 Therefore, lions from the forest slay them,wolves of the desert ravage them,Leopards keep watch round their cities:all who come out are torn to pieces,For their crimes are many,their rebellions numerous.
7 Why should I pardon you?Your children have forsaken me,they swear by gods that are no gods.I fed them, but they commit adultery;to the prostitute’s house they throng.
8 They are lustful stallions,each neighs after the other’s wife.
9 Should I not punish them for this?—oracle of the Lord;on a nation like this should I not take vengeance?
10 Climb her terraces, and ravage them,destroy them completely.Tear away her tendrils,they do not belong to the Lord.
11 For they have openly rebelled against me,both the house of Israel and the house of Judah—oracle of the Lord.