2 This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: “Write down on a scroll all the words that I have spoken to you,
3 for the days are certainly coming” — this is the Lord’s declaration — “when I will restore the fortunes of My people Israel and Judah” — the Lord’s declaration. “I will restore them to the land I gave to their ancestors and they will possess it.”
4 These are the words the Lord spoke to Israel and Judah.
5 Yes, this is what the Lord says:We have heard a cry of terror,of dread — there is no peace.
6 Ask and seewhether a male can give birth.Why then do I see every manwith his hands on his stomach like a woman in laborand every face turned pale?
7 How awful that day will be! There will be none like it! It will be a time of trouble for Jacob,but he will be delivered out of it.
8 “On that day” — this is the declaration of the Lord of Hosts — “I will break his yoke from your neck and tear off your chains so strangers will never again enslave him.