23 They take hold of bow and spear. They are cruel, and have no mercy. Their voice roars like the sea, and they ride on horses, everyone set in array, as a man to the battle, against you, daughter of Zion.”
24 We have heard its report. Our hands become feeble. Anguish has taken hold of us, and pains as of a woman in labour.
25 Don’t go out into the field, nor walk by the way; for the sword of the enemy and terror are on every side.
26 Daughter of my people, clothe yourself with sackcloth, and wallow in ashes! Mourn, as for an only son, most bitter lamentation, for the destroyer will suddenly come on us.
27 “I have made you a tester of metals and a fortress amongst my people, that you may know and try their way.
28 They are all grievous rebels, going around to slander. They are bronze and iron. All of them deal corruptly.
29 The bellows blow fiercely. The lead is consumed in the fire. In vain they go on refining, for the wicked are not plucked away.