²⁶ As the thief is ashamed when he is found,
    so is the house of Israel ashamed.
They, their kings, their officials,
    and their priests, and their prophets
²⁷ say to a tree, “You are my father.”
    And to a stone, “You gave birth to me.”
For they have turned their back to Me,
    and not their face.
But in the time of their trouble they will say,
    “Arise and save us.”
²⁸ But where are your gods that you have made for yourself?
    Let them arise, if they can save you
    in the time of your trouble;
for according to the number of your cities
    are your gods, O Judah.

²⁹ Why will you plead with Me?
    You all have transgressed against Me,
    says the Lord.