1Bel bows down, Nebo stoops low. Their idols are loaded on animals, on the cattle. The things you carried in procession are now a heavy load, a burden for the tired beast.
2They stoop, they bow down together. They could not save the load, and they themselves have gone into captivity.
3Listen to me, house of Jacob, and all who are left of the house of Israel. I have carried you since you were born; I have lifted you since you came from the womb.
4Even when you are old, I am he; even when your hair is grey, I will carry you. I made you, and I will bear you up; I will carry you, and I will rescue you.
5Who will you compare me to? Who will you make my equal? Who will you measure me against, as if we were alike?
6They pour out gold from the bag, and weigh silver on the scales. They hire a goldsmith, and he makes it into a god. Then they fall down and worship it.
7They lift it on their shoulders and carry it. They set it in its place, and there it stands. It cannot move from its place. If someone cries out to it, it cannot answer or save him from his trouble.
8Remember this, and stand up like men. Think about it again, you who break my law.
9Remember the things that happened long ago. I am God, and there is no other. I am God, and there is none like me.
10From the beginning I tell how it will end, and from ancient times I tell what has not yet been done. I say, "My plan will stand, and I will do all that I please."
11I call a bird of prey from the east, and from a far country the man who carries out my plan. I have spoken it, and I will bring it about. I have purposed it, and I will do it.
12Listen to me, you stubborn-hearted, you who are far from righteousness.
13I bring my righteousness near; it will not be far off, and my salvation will not be delayed. I will put salvation in Zion, for Israel my glory.