21 “Submit your case,” says the Lord.
“Present your arguments,” says Jacob’s King.
22 “Let them come and tell us
what will happen.(A)
Tell us the past events,
so that we may reflect on them
and know the outcome,
or tell us the future.
23 Tell us the coming events,(B)
then we will know that you are gods.
Indeed, do something good or bad,
then we will be in awe[a] when we see it.
24 Look, you are nothing(C)
and your work is worthless.
Anyone who chooses you is detestable.

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Footnotes

  1. 41:23 DSS read we may hear

21 “Present the case for your idols,”
    says the Lord.
“Let them show what they can do,”
    says the King of Israel.[a]
22 “Let them try to tell us what happened long ago
    so that we may consider the evidence.
Or let them tell us what the future holds,
    so we can know what’s going to happen.
23 Yes, tell us what will occur in the days ahead.
    Then we will know you are gods.
In fact, do anything—good or bad!
    Do something that will amaze and frighten us.
24 But no! You are less than nothing and can do nothing at all.
    Those who choose you pollute themselves.

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Footnotes

  1. 41:21 Hebrew the King of Jacob. See note on 14:1.