12For I know how manifold are your transgressions, and how mighty are your sins-ye that afflict the just, that take a bribe, and that turn aside the needy in the gate [from their right].
13Therefore he that is prudent shall keep silence in such a time; for it is an evil time.
14Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live; and so Jehovah, the God of hosts, will be with you, as ye say.
15Hate the evil, and love the good, and establish justice in the gate: it may be that Jehovah, the God of hosts, will be gracious unto the remnant of Joseph.
16Therefore thus saith Jehovah, the God of hosts, the Lord: Wailing shall be in all the broad ways; and they shall say in all the streets, Alas! Alas! and they shall call the husbandman to mourning, and such as are skilful in lamentation to wailing.
17And in all vineyards shall be wailing; for I will pass through the midst of thee, saith Jehovah.
18Woe unto you that desire the day of Jehovah! Wherefore would ye have the day of Jehovah? It is darkness, and not light.
