2 For the idols speak falsehood,and the diviners see illusions;they relate empty dreamsand offer empty comfort.Therefore the people wander like sheep;they suffer affliction because there is no shepherd.
3 My anger burns against the shepherds,so I will punish the leaders. For the Lord of Hosts has tended His flock,the house of Judah;He will make them like His majestic steed in battle.
4 The cornerstone will come from Judah. The tent peg will come from themand also the battle bow and every ruler.Together
5 they will be like warriors in battletrampling down the mud of the streets.They will fight because the Lord is with them,and they will put horsemen to shame.
6 I will strengthen the house of Judahand deliver the house of Joseph. I will restore thembecause I have compassion on them,and they will beas though I had never rejected them. For I am Yahweh their God,and I will answer them.
7 Ephraim will be like a warrior,and their hearts will be glad as if with wine.Their children will see it and be glad; their hearts will rejoice in Yahweh.
8 I will whistle and gather thembecause I have redeemed them;they will be as numerous as they once were.