12 The earth’s rulers didn’t believe it—neither did any who inhabit the world—that either enemy or adversary could enter Jerusalem’s gates.
13 It was because of her prophets’ sins, her priests’ iniquities,those who shed righteous blood in the middle of the city.
14 People wandered blindly in the streets, polluted with blood.No one would even touch their clothing.
15 "Go away! Unclean!" was shouted at them, "Go away! Away! Don’t touch!"So they fled and wandered around. The nations said, "They can’t stay here anymore."
16 It was the Lord’s presence that scattered them; he no longer notices them.They didn’t honor the priests’ presence; they didn’t favor the elders.
17 Our eyes continually failed, looking for some help, but for nothing.From our watchtower we watched for a nation that doesn’t save.
18 Our steps were tracked; we could no longer walk in our streets.Our end had drawn near; our days were done—our end had definitely come.