1 This is what the Lord says:I am about to stir up a destructive wind against Babylon and against the population of Leb-qamai.
2 I will send strangers to Babylonwho will scatter her and strip her land bare, for they will come against herfrom every side in the day of disaster.
3 Don’t let the archer string his bow;don’t let him put on his armor. Don’t spare her young men;completely destroy her entire army!
4 Those who were slain will fall in the land of the Chaldeans,those who were pierced through, in her streets.
5 For Israel and Judah are not left widowedby their God, the Lord of Hosts,though their land is full of guiltagainst the Holy One of Israel.
6 Leave Babylon; save your lives, each of you! Don’t perish because of her guilt.For this is the time of the Lord’s vengeance —He will pay her what she deserves.
7 Babylon was a gold cup in the Lord’s hand, making the whole earth drunk.The nations drank her wine; therefore, the nations go mad.