15. But my people are not so reliable, for they have deserted me;they burn incense to worthless idols.They have stumbled off the ancient highwaysand walk in muddy paths.
16. Therefore, their land will become desolate,a monument to their stupidity.All who pass by will be astonishedand will shake their heads in amazement.
17. I will scatter my people before their enemiesas the east wind scatters dust.And in all their trouble I will turn my back on themand refuse to notice their distress.”
18. Then the people said, “Come on, let’s plot a way to stop Jeremiah. We have plenty of priests and wise men and prophets. We don’t need him to teach the word and give us advice and prophecies. Let’s spread rumors about him and ignore what he says.”
19. lord, hear me and help me!Listen to what my enemies are saying.
20. Should they repay evil for good?They have dug a pit to kill me,though I pleaded for themand tried to protect them from your anger.
21. So let their children starve!Let them die by the sword!Let their wives become childless widows.Let their old men die in a plague,and let their young men be killed in battle!
22. Let screaming be heard from their homesas warriors come suddenly upon them.For they have dug a pit for meand have hidden traps along my path.
23. lord, you know all about their murderous plots against me.Don’t forgive their crimes and blot out their sins.Let them die before you.Deal with them in your anger.