THREATENED SIEGE OF JERUSALEM

6 “Run for covero out of Jerusalem, Benjaminites.

Sound the trumpetp in Tekoa;q

raise a smoke signalr over Beth-haccherem,C

for disaster threatens from the north,s

even a crushing blow.

2 Though she is beautiful and delicate,

I will destroyD Daughter Zion.

3 Shepherds and their flocks will come against her;

they will pitch their tents all around her.t

Each will pasture his own portion.

4 Set them apart for waru against her;

rise up, let’s attack at noon.

Woe to us, for the day is passing;

the evening shadows grow long.

5 Rise up, let’s attack by night.

Let’s destroy her fortresses.”

6 For this is what the Lord of Armies says:

Cut down the trees;v

raise a siege ramp against Jerusalem.

This city must be punished.

There is nothing but oppression within her.w

7 As a well gushes out its water,

so she pours out her evil.E

Violence and destructionx resound in her.

Sickness and wounds keep coming to my attention.

8 Be warned, Jerusalem,

or I will turn away from you;y

I will make you a desolation,

a land without inhabitants.z