⁵ Their idols^[a] are like scarecrows in a cucumber field,
    and ^(A)they cannot speak;
^(B)they have to be carried,
    for they cannot walk.
Do not be afraid of them,
    ^(C)for they cannot do evil,
    neither is it in them to do good.”

^7 (A)They lift it to their shoulders, they carry it,
    they set it in its place, and it stands there;
    ^(B)it cannot move from its place.
If one cries to it, it does not answer
    or save him from his trouble.

^23 (A)Tell us what is to come hereafter,
    that we may know that you are gods;
^(B)do good, or do harm,
    that we may be dismayed and terrified.^[a]
24 Behold, ^(C)you are nothing,
    and your work is less than nothing;
    an abomination is he who chooses you.