Isaiah 1:21-31

21How the Faithful City became a harlot! She once was full of justice, righteousness lodged in her— but now murderers!

22Your silver has become dross, your wine diluted by water.

23Your princes are rebellious and friends with thieves. Everyone loves a bribe and chases after rewards. They do not defend the orphan, nor does a widow’s case come to them.

24Therefore says the Lord Adonai-Tzva’ot, the Mighty One of Israel: “Oy ! I will get relief from My foes and avenge Myself on My enemies.

25Then I will turn My hand on you, purge away your dross, and remove all your alloy.

26I will restore your judges as at first, your counselors as at the start. Afterward you will be called City of Righteousness, Faithful City.

27Zion will be redeemed with justice, her repentant with righteousness.”

28But there will be a crushing of transgressors and sinners together. Forsaking Adonai, they will be consumed.

29For they will be ashamed of the sacred oaks that you desired, and embarrassed because of the gardens that you have chosen.

30For you will be like an oak of withering leaf, like a garden that has no water.

31So the strong will become tinder and his work like a spark— both will burn together, and no one will quench them.