2. At that time you must singabout a fruitful vineyard.
3. I, the Lord, will protect itand always keep it watered.I will guard it day and nightto keep it from harm.
4. I am no longer angry.But if it produces thorns,I will go to war against itand burn it to the ground.
5. Yet if the vineyard dependson me for protection,it will become my friendand be at peace with me.
6. Some day Israel will take rootlike a vine.It will blossom and bear fruitthat covers the earth.
7. I, the Lord, didn't punish and killthe people of Israelas fiercely as I punishedand killed their enemies.
8. I carefully measured outIsrael's punishmentand sent the scorching heatto chase them far away.
9. There's only one waythat Israel's sin and guiltcan be completely forgiven:they must crush the stonesof every pagan altarand place of worship.