Jerusalem Under Siege

6 “Flee for safety, people of Benjamin!

Flee from Jerusalem!

Sound the trumpets in Tekoa!t

Raise the signal over Beth Hakkerem!u

For disaster looms out of the north,v

even terrible destruction.

2 I will destroy Daughter Zion,w

so beautiful and delicate.x

3 Shepherdsy with their flocks will come against her;

they will pitch their tents aroundz her,

each tending his own portion.”

4 “Prepare for battle against her!

Arise, let us attack at noon!a

But, alas, the daylight is fading,

and the shadows of evening grow long.

5 So arise, let us attack at night

and destroy her fortresses!”

6 This is what the Lord Almighty says:

“Cut down the treesb

and build siege rampsc against Jerusalem.

This city must be punished;

it is filled with oppression.d

7 As a well pours out its water,

so she pours out her wickedness.

Violencee and destructionf resound in her;

her sickness and wounds are ever before me.

8 Take warning, Jerusalem,

or I will turn awayg from you

and make your land desolate

so no one can live in it.”

9 This is what the Lord Almighty says:

“Let them glean the remnanth of Israel

as thoroughly as a vine;

pass your hand over the branches again,

like one gathering grapes.”