All this is because of Jacob’s transgression and the sins of the house of Israel. Who is the transgression of Jacob? Is it not Samaria? Who are the high places of Judah? Are they not Jerusalem?

Harness the chariot to the steed, O inhabitant of Lachish! It was the beginning of sin for the Daughter of Zion— because in you were found the rebellions of Israel.

Therefore you will give parting gifts to Moresheth-gath— houses of Achzib as a deception to the kings of Israel.

Yet I will bring the possessor to you, inhabitant of Mareshah. The glory of Israel will come as far as Adullam.

“I will surely gather Jacob—all of you! I will surely gather the remnant of Israel. I will put them together like sheep in a pen, like a flock within its pasture. They will be noisy with people.

Unjust Leaders, False Prophets

Then I said: “Hear, leaders of Jacob, rulers of the house of Israel. Is it not for you to know justice?

Nevertheless I myself am filled with power— with the Ruach Adonai— with judgment, and with might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin.

Hear this, leaders of the house of Jacob, rulers of the house of Israel: You who abhor justice, and twist everything upright,

Now gather yourself in troops, O Daughter of Troops. He has laid siege against us. With a staff they have struck the Judge of Israel on the cheek.

Eternal Ruler from Bethlehem

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah— least among the clans of Judah— from you will come out to Me One to be ruler in Israel, One whose goings forth are from of old, from days of eternity.

Hear, Adonai’s dispute, O mountains— the enduring foundations of the earth. For Adonai has a dispute with His people and He will argue His case with Israel.