¹⁷ Learn to do right;^(A) seek justice.^(B)
    Defend the oppressed.^[a](C)
Take up the cause of the fatherless;^(D)
    plead the case of the widow.^(E)

¹⁸ “Come now, let us settle the matter,”^(F)
    says the Lord.
“Though your sins are like scarlet,
    they shall be as white as snow;^(G)
though they are red as crimson,
    they shall be like wool.^(H)
19 If you are willing and obedient,^(I)
    you will eat the good things of the land;^(J)
20 but if you resist and rebel,^(K)
    you will be devoured by the sword.”^(L)
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.^(M)

²¹ See how the faithful city
    has become a prostitute!^(N)
She once was full of justice;
    righteousness^(O) used to dwell in her—
    but now murderers!^(P)
22 Your silver has become dross,^(Q)
    your choice wine is diluted with water.
²³ Your rulers are rebels,^(R)
    partners with thieves;^(S)
they all love bribes^(T)
    and chase after gifts.
They do not defend the cause of the fatherless;
    the widow’s case does not come before them.^(U)