Add parallel Print Page Options

20 But if you refuse and resist,
    you shall be eaten by the sword:
    for the mouth of the Lord has spoken!

The Purification of Jerusalem

21 How she has become a prostitute,
    the faithful city,[a] so upright!
Justice used to lodge within her,
    but now, murderers.(A)
22 Your silver is turned to dross,
    your wine is mixed with water.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. 1:21–28 Faithful city: the phrase, found in v. 21 and v. 28, forms an inclusio which marks off the passage and also suggests three chronological periods: the city’s former ideal state, its present wicked condition (described in vv. 21b–23), and the future ideal conditions intended by God. This will be brought about by a purging judgment directed primarily against the leaders (“judges…counselors”).

20 but if you resist and rebel,(A)
    you will be devoured by the sword.”(B)
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.(C)

21 See how the faithful city
    has become a prostitute!(D)
She once was full of justice;
    righteousness(E) used to dwell in her—
    but now murderers!(F)
22 Your silver has become dross,(G)
    your choice wine is diluted with water.

Read full chapter