1. You people of Israel, listen to what the Lord has to say to you.
2. The Lord says,“Do not start following pagan religious practices.Do not be in awe of signs that occur in the skyeven though the nations hold them in awe.
3. For the religion of these people is worthless.They cut down a tree in the forest,and a craftsman makes it into an idol with his tools.
4. He decorates it with overlays of silver and gold.He uses hammer and nails to fasten it togetherso that it will not fall over.
5. Such idols are like scarecrows in a cucumber field.They cannot talk.They must be carried because they cannot walk.Do not be afraid of thembecause they cannot hurt you.And they do not have any power to help you.”
6. I said, “There is no one like you, Lord.You are great.And you are renowned for your power.
7. Everyone should revere you, O King of all nations,because you deserve to be revered.For there is no one like youamong any of the wise people of the nations nor among any of their kings.
8. The people of those nations are both stupid and foolish.Instruction from a wooden idol is worthless!
9. Hammered-out silver is brought from Tarshishand gold is brought from Uphaz to cover those idols.They are the handiwork of carpenters and goldsmiths.They are clothed in blue and purple clothes.They are all made by skillful workers.