I have examined all this by wisdom; I said, “I am determined to comprehend this” – but it was beyond my grasp.

for all the cedars of Lebanon, that are so high and mighty, for all the oaks of Bashan;

Tell the innocent it will go well with them, for they will be rewarded for what they have done.

I overpowered kingdoms ruled by idols, whose carved images were more impressive than Jerusalem’s or Samaria’s.

As I have done to Samaria and its idols, so I will do to Jerusalem and its idols.”

My heart palpitates, I shake in fear; the twilight I desired has brought me terror.

They removed the defenses of Judah. At that time you looked for the weapons in the House of the Forest.

The earth is defiled by its inhabitants, for they have violated laws, disregarded the regulation, and broken the permanent treaty.

The way of the righteous is level, the path of the righteous that you make is straight.

O Lord, you make us secure, for even all we have accomplished, you have done for us.

Ariel is as good as dead – Ariel, the town David besieged! Keep observing your annual rituals, celebrate your festivals on schedule.

I will threaten Ariel, and she will mourn intensely and become like an altar hearth before me.

Eyes will no longer be blind and ears will be attentive.

Not even Lebanon could supply enough firewood for a sacrifice; its wild animals would not provide enough burnt offerings.

everyone who belongs to me, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed – yes, whom I made!

Listen to me, O Jacob, Israel, whom I summoned! I am the one; I am present at the very beginning and at the very end.

He said to me, “You are my servant, Israel, through whom I will reveal my splendor.”

Those who live uprightly enter a place of peace; they rest on their beds.

Justice is driven back; godliness stands far off. Indeed, honesty stumbles in the city square and morality is not even able to enter.

These people continually and blatantly offend me as they sacrifice in their sacred orchards and burn incense on brick altars.