⁷ The metalworker^(A) encourages the goldsmith,^(B)
    and the one who smooths with the hammer
    spurs on the one who strikes the anvil.
One says of the welding, “It is good.”
    The other nails down the idol so it will not topple.^(C)

²¹ “Present your case,^(A)” says the Lord.
    “Set forth your arguments,” says Jacob’s King.^(B)
22 “Tell us, you idols,
    what is going to happen.^(C)
Tell us what the former things^(D) were,
    so that we may consider them
    and know their final outcome.
Or declare to us the things to come,^(E)
23     tell us what the future holds,
    so we may know^(F) that you are gods.
Do something, whether good or bad,^(G)
    so that we will be dismayed^(H) and filled with fear.
²⁴ But you are less than nothing^(I)
    and your works are utterly worthless;^(J)
    whoever chooses you is detestable.^(K)

²⁸ I look but there is no one^(A)—
    no one among the gods to give counsel,^(B)
    no one to give answer^(C) when I ask them.

²⁹ See, they are all false!
    Their deeds amount to nothing;^(A)
    their images^(B) are but wind^(C) and confusion.