1 An oracle about Damascus.Look! Damascus is finished as a city;it will become a fallen ruin.
2 The villages of Aroer are abandoned forever.They will be pastures for flocks,which will lie down undisturbed.
3 Ephraim’s security will cease,as will Damascus’ rule.What’s left of Aram will resemble the glory of the Israelites,says the Lord of heavenly forces.
4 On that day, Jacob’s glory will dwindle;his sleek body will waste away.
5 It will be as when harvesters gather grain.God will harvest armfuls at a time,like one who gathers grainin the Rephaim Valley.
6 Only remaining bits are left,like an olive tree that has been shaken:two or three olives on the highest branch;four or five on a fruitful twig,says the Lord God of Israel.
7 On that day, people will have regard for their maker,and their eyes will look to the holy one of Israel.