1:4 1 The sinful nation is as good as dead, 2
the people weighed down by evil deeds.
They are offspring who do wrong,
children 3 who do wicked things.
They have abandoned the Lord,
and rejected the Holy One of Israel. 4
They are alienated from him. 5
1:5 6 Why do you insist on being battered?
Why do you continue to rebel? 7
Your head has a massive wound, 8
your whole body is weak. 9
1:6 From the soles of your feet to your head,
there is no spot that is unharmed. 10
There are only bruises, cuts,
and open wounds.
They have not been cleansed 11 or bandaged,
nor have they been treated 12 with olive oil. 13
1:10 Listen to the Lord’s word,
you leaders of Sodom! 14
Pay attention to our God’s rebuke, 15
people of Gomorrah!
1:11 “Of what importance to me are your many sacrifices?” 16
says the Lord.
“I am stuffed with 17 burnt sacrifices
of rams and the fat from steers.
The blood of bulls, lambs, and goats
I do not want. 18
1:12 When you enter my presence,
do you actually think I want this –
animals trampling on my courtyards? 19
1:13 Do not bring any more meaningless 20 offerings;
I consider your incense detestable! 21
You observe new moon festivals, Sabbaths, and convocations,
but I cannot tolerate sin-stained celebrations! 22
1:14 I hate your new moon festivals and assemblies;
they are a burden
that I am tired of carrying.
1:15 When you spread out your hands in prayer,
I look the other way; 23
when you offer your many prayers,
I do not listen,
because your hands are covered with blood. 24