12
Their food supply is almost used up, and water is scarce. So they have determined to kill their cattle and to consume everything that God, by his laws, has commanded them not to eat.
10
Now, my master and lord, don't ignore what he told you, but keep it in mind because it's all true. Our nation can't be punished, and the sword won't succeed against the Israelites, unless they have sinned against their God.
11
But now, death will soon fall upon them, so that my master won't end up frustrated and defeated. A sin has overtaken them, and they will anger their God when they do what is wrong.
12
Their food supply is almost used up, and water is scarce. So they have determined to kill their cattle and to consume everything that God, by his laws, has commanded them not to eat.
13
They have decided to eat the early produce from the grain and one-tenth of the wine and olive oil that were set apart and reserved for the priests who serve in Jerusalem in the presence of our God—things it isn't lawful for the people even to touch with their hands.
14
Since even the people who live in Jerusalem have been doing the same thing, they sent messengers there to bring back permission from the council.