The Branch of the Lord

4:2 At that time6

the crops given by the Lord will bring admiration and honor;7

the produce of the land will be a source of pride and delight

to those who remain in Israel.8

4:3 Those remaining in Zion,9 those left in Jerusalem,10

will be called “holy,”11

all in Jerusalem who are destined to live.12

4:4 At that time13 the sovereign master14 will wash the excrement15 from Zion’s women,

he will rinse the bloodstains from Jerusalem’s midst,16

as he comes to judge

and to bring devastation.17

4:5 Then the Lord will create

over all of Mount Zion18

and over its convocations

a cloud and smoke by day

and a bright flame of fire by night;19

indeed a canopy will accompany the Lord’s glorious presence.20

4:6 By day it will be a shelter to provide shade from the heat,

as well as safety and protection from the heavy downpour.21