20
They are just like a beam of the temple, but men say their hearts have melted, when worms from the earth devour them and their robes. They do not notice
21
when their faces have been blackened by the smoke of the temple.
22
Bats, swallows, and birds light on their bodies and heads; and so do cats.
23
From this you will know that they are not gods; so do not fear them.
24
As for the gold which they wear for beauty -- they will not shine unless some one wipes off the rust; for even when they were being cast, they had no feeling.
25
They are bought at any cost, but there is no breath in them.
26
Having no feet, they are carried on men's shoulders, revealing to mankind their worthlessness.
27
And those who serve them are ashamed because through them these gods are made to stand, lest they fall to the ground. If any one sets one of them upright, it cannot move itself; and if it is tipped over, it cannot straighten itself; but gifts are placed before them just as before the dead.
28
The priests sell the sacrifices that are offered to these gods and use the money; and likewise their wives preserve some with salt, but give none to the poor or helpless.
29
Sacrifices to them may be touched by women in menstruation or at childbirth. Since you know by these things that they are not gods, do not fear them.
30
For why should they be called gods? Women serve meals for gods of silver and gold and wood;