3 They cast lots for my people and traded boys for prostitutes; they sold girls for wine to drink.

Other Translations of Joel 3:3

King James Version

3 And they have cast lots for my people; and have given a boy for an harlot, and sold a girl for wine, that they might drink.

English Standard Version

3 and have cast lots for my people, and have traded a boy for a prostitute, and have sold a girl for wine and have drunk it.

The Message

3 They threw dice for my people and used them for barter. They would trade a boy for a whore, sell a girl for a bottle of wine when they wanted a drink.

New King James Version

3 They have cast lots for My people, Have given a boy as payment for a harlot, And sold a girl for wine, that they may drink.

New Living Translation

3 They threw dice to decide which of my people would be their slaves. They traded boys to obtain prostitutes and sold girls for enough wine to get drunk.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Joel 3:3

Commentary on Joel 3:1-8

(Read Joel 3:1-8)

The restoration of the Jews, and the final victory of true religion over all opposers, appear to be here foretold. The contempt and scorn with which the Jews have often been treated as a people, and the little value set upon them, are noticed. None ever hardened his heart against God or his church, and prospered long.