# verses

text:
He'll eat cheese <n>{Or curds}</n> and honey, when he knows enough to reject what's wrong and choose what's right. 


text:
However, before the youth knows enough to reject what's wrong and choose what's right, the land whose two kings you dread will be devastated." 


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<n>{Conquest by Assyria}</n> d "The Lord will bring to you, to your people, and to your ancestor's house such a time <n>{Lit. such days}</n> as has never been since Ephraim broke away from Judah the king of Assyria will come. <n>{1QIsa a MT lack will come}</n> 


text:
"At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> the Lord will call <n>{Lit. whistle}</n> for flies that will come from far away from the headwaters of Egypt's rivers and for bees that are in the land of Assyria. 


text:
They will all come and settle in the steep ravines, in the rocky crevices, in all the thorn bushes, and in all the pastures. <n>{Or the watering places}</n> 


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At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> the Lord will hire a barber <n>{Lit. razor}</n> to come <n>{1QIsa a MT lack to come}</n> from beyond the Euphrates <n>{1QIsa a MT lack Euphrates}</n> River that is, the king of Assyria and he will shave your heads, your leg <n>{Or feet}</n> hair, and your beards, too. 


text:
and because of the abundance of milk that they give, he will have cheese <n>{Or curds}</n> to eat, since whoever remains in the land will be eating cheese <n>{Or curds}</n> and honey. 


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"At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> every place where once there were a thousand vines worth a thousand shekels of silver, only briars and thorns will grow. 


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"People will come there armed with bows <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read bow}</n> and arrows, because the entire land will be nothing but briers and thorns. 


text:
As for all the hills that used to be cultivated with a hoe, you won't go there, because you'll fear iron <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack iron}</n> briars and thorns. Nevertheless, those hills <n>{Lit. but they}</n> will be reserved as a pasture where cattle will feed and where sheep will graze." <n>{Lit. tread}</n> 


text:
<n>{Isaiah's Son is Born}</n> d The Lord also told me, "Take a large tablet and write on it with a stylus <n>{Or with an ordinary}</n> pen, «For Maher-shalal-hash-baz'. <n>{The Heb. name Maher-shalal-hash-baz means Hurry to the plunder, quick to the loot}</n> 


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Then I will call <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads call in}</n> Uriah the priest and Jeberechiah's son Zechariah as reliable witnesses to testify on my behalf." 


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After this, I was intimate with the prophetess and she conceived. Later, she bore a son, and then the Lord told me, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa e lacks me}</n> "Call him <n>{Lit. Call his name}</n> «Maher-shalal-hash-baz,'


text:
for before the young lad knows how to call out to his father or mother, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads out «My father!'or «My mother!'; LXX reads «Father!'or «Mother!'}</n> the wealth of Damascus and the plunder of Samaria will be carried off by the king of Assyria." 


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"Because this people have rejected the gently-flowing waters of Shiloah, and because <n>{1QIsa a MT lack because}</n> they keep rejoicing in Rezin and Remaliah's son, 


text:
watch out! The Lord God <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads the Lord}</n> is about to bring the flood waters of the Euphrates <n>{1QIsa a MT lack Euphrates}</n> River against them, mighty and strong. <n>{So 4QIsa f MT LXX; 1QIsa a lacks mighty and strong}</n> "It's the king of Assyria and all of his arrogance! He will rise over all of the river's channels and run over all of its banks. 


text:
He will sweep on into Judah, overflowing as he passes through, like flood waters <n>{DSS MT lack like flood waters}</n> reaching up to a person's neck. His outstretched wings will flow as wide as your land, O Immanuel!" 


text:
"Band together, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa e 4QIsa f LXX read Learn this ; or Know this}</n> you peoples, but be shattered! Listen, all you distant countries! Strap on your armor, but be shattered. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT adds a second strap on your armor but be shattered ; cf. LXX}</n> 


text:
Take counsel together, but it will all be for nothing; go ahead and talk, but <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa e LXX lack but}</n> it will all be for nothing, <n>{Lit. it won't stand}</n> for God is with us." <n>{I.e. a word play on the name Immanuel ; cf. 7:14, 8:8}</n> 


text:
<n>{Waiting on God}</n> d For <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa e MT; 4QIsa f LXX Syr lack For}</n> this is what the Lord spoke to me, as his forceful hand was resting on me, and as he was warning me not to live the way this people were living: <n>{Lit. not to walk in the way of this people}</n> 


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"Don't call conspiracy everything that this people calls conspiracy, and don't fear what they fear, or live in terror. 


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The Lord of the Heavenly Armies he's the one you are to regard as holy. Let him be the one whom you fear, and let him be the one before whom you stand in terror! 


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Then he will be a sanctuary, but for both houses of Israel he'll also be a stone with which someone strikes himself, a rock one stumbles over, a trap and a snare to those who live in Jerusalem. 


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I'll wait for the Lord , who is hiding his face from the house of Jacob, and I'll put my trust in him. 


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Watch out! I and the children whom the Lord has given me are a sign and a wonder <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read are signs and wonders}</n> in Israel from the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, who resides on Mount Zion." 


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<n>{Rejecting Occultic Wisdom}</n> d "So when they advise you, «Ask the mediums your questions, and quiz the spiritists who chirp and mutter,'shouldn't a people instead be consulting their God <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads gods}</n> and not the dead on behalf of those who are living 


text:
for instruction and for testimony? Surely they are speaking like this because the truth <n>{1QIsa a MT lack the truth}</n> hasn't dawned on them. 


text:
"They'll pass through the land, <n>{Lit. through it}</n> while <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks while}</n> greatly distressed and hungry. When they are hungry, they'll become enraged, and they'll curse their king and their god. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads gods ; LXX reads idols}</n> They'll turn their faces upwards, 


text:
or they'll look toward the <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks the}</n> earth, but they'll see only distress and darkness, the gloom that comes from anguish, and then they'll be thrown into total darkness." 


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<n>{The Prince of Peace}</n> d <n>{This v. is 8:23 in the MT}</n> But there will be no gloom for her who was <n>{So DSS; MT reads those who were}</n> in distress. Formerly, he brought contempt to the region of Zebulun and the region of Naphtali, but in the future <n>{So DSS; MT reads the latter time}</n> he will have made glorious the way of the sea, the territory beyond the Jordan Galilee of the nations. <n>{Or gentiles}</n> 


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<n>{This v. is 9:1 in the MT}</n> The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; for those living in a land of deep darkness, a light has shined upon them. 


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You have increased the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice in your presence as they rejoice at the harvest, as they are glad when they're dividing the spoils of war. <n>{1QIsa a MT lack of war}</n> 


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Now as to the yoke that has been <n>{Lit. yoke of}</n> his burden, and the bar laid <n>{DSS The Heb. lacks laid}</n> on his shoulder the rod of his oppressor you have broken it <n>{1QIsa a MT lack it}</n> as on the day of Midiam. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads Midian ; cf. Judg 7:8-25 2King 15:19; 16:8}</n> 


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For every boot of the tramping soldier in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be used for burning as fuel for a fire. 


text:
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name is <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT 4QIsa c read name will be}</n> called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 


text:
Of the growth of his government and peace there will be no end. He will rule <n>{DSS MT lack He will rule}</n> over his kingdom, sitting on the throne of David, to establish it and to uphold it <n>{So 1QIsa a , referring to the throne; MT reads it , referring to the kingdom}</n> with justice and righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of the Heavenly Armies will accomplish this. 


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<n>{A Rebuke to Jacob and Israel}</n> d "The Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Lord}</n> has sent a plague <n>{So LXX; MT reads word ; 1QIsa a can mean plague or word .}</n> against Jacob, and it will fall on Israel; 


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and all of the people were evil <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read knew}</n> Ephraim and the inhabitants of Samaria saying proudly with arrogant hearts: 


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«The bricks have fallen, but we will build with dressed stones; the sycamore trees have been cut down, but we will replace them with cedars.'


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But the Lord has raised adversaries <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; other MT mss. read princes}</n> from Rezin <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks from Rezin}</n> against him, and he stirs up his enemies 


text:
Arameans from the east and Philistines from the west and they devour Israel with open mouths! "Yet <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c ; the Heb. lacks Yet}</n> for all this, his anger has not turned away, and his hand is still stretched out, ready to strike." <n>{DSS MT lack ready to strike}</n> 


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<n>{Judgment for Not Repenting}</n> d "But the people have not returned to rely <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack to rely}</n> on <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads toward ; LXX reads until}</n> him who struck them, nor have they sought the Lord of the Heavenly Armies. 


text:
So the Lord has cut off from Israel head and tail, palm branch and reed in <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the The Heb. lacks in}</n> a single day 


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For those who guide this people have been leading them astray, and those who are guided by them are swallowed up. 


text:
Therefore the Lord does not have pity on <n>{So 1QIsa a ;MT LXX read rejoice over}</n> their young men, and has no compassion on their orphans <n>{Or fatherless}</n> and widows, because each of them was godless and an evildoer, and every mouth spoke folly. "Yet <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c ; the Heb. lacks Yet}</n> for all this, his anger has not turned away, and his hand is still stretched out, ready to strike. <n>{DSS MT lack ready to strike}</n> 


text:
"For wickedness has burned like a blaze that consumes briers and thorns; it sets thickets of the forest on fire, and skyward <n>{Lit. upward}</n> they swirl in a column of smoke. 


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From <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads By}</n> the wrath of the Lord of the Heavenly Armies the land has been scorched, and the people have become like fuel for the fire; no one will spare his neighbor. 


text:
They cut meat on the right, but they're still hungry, and they devour also <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lacks also}</n> on the left, but they're not satisfied; each devours the flesh of his own children. <n>{So 4QIsa e ; or arms ; 1QIsa a MT read offsprin g or arm ; LXX reads arm}</n> 


text:
Manasseh devours Ephraim, and Ephraim devours Manasseh; together they are against Judah. "Yet <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack Yet}</n> for all this, his anger has not turned away, and his hand is still stretched out, ready to strike." <n>{DSS MT lack ready to strike}</n> 


text:
<n>{Judgment on Unjust Lawmakers}</n> d "How terrible it will be for the one <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads the ones}</n> who enacts unjust decrees, for those who write oppressive laws that they have prescribed 


text:
to deprive the needy of justice and to rob the poor of my people of their rights, <n>{Lit. right}</n> so that widows may become their spoil and so that they may plunder orphans! <n>{Or plunder the fatherless}</n> 


text:
What will you do on the day of Judgment, <n>{Lit. reckoning}</n> in the calamity that will come from far away? To whom will you run for help, and where will you leave your wealth, 


text:
so you won't have to crouch among those in chains <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read beneath prisoners}</n> or fall among the slain? "Yet <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack Yet}</n> for all this, his anger has not turned away, and his hand is still stretched out, ready to strike." <n>{DSS MT lack ready to strike}</n> 


text:
<n>{Assyria is an Instrument of Judgment}</n> d "How terrible it will be for Assyria, the rod of my anger! The club is in their hands! <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads is their fury!}</n> 


text:
I'm sending my fury <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads sending him}</n> against a godless nation, and I'll command him against the people with whom I'm angry to seize loot and snatch plunder, and to trample them down like mud in the streets. 


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But this is not what he intends, and this is not what he thinks in his mind; but it is in his mind to destroy, and to cut down <n>{Lit. off}</n> many nations. 


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As my hand has reached to the idolatrous kingdoms <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads the idol}</n> whose carved images were greater than those of Jerusalem and Samaria, 


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<n>{Assyria will be Judged}</n> d "For <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read And when}</n> the Lord has finished all his work against Mount Zion and against Jerusalem; he will punish the speech that comes from that willful <n>{Lit. the fruit of the arrogant}</n> heart of Assyria's king and the haughty look in his eyes. 


text:
He keeps bragging: <n>{Lit. saying ; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads He said}</n> «I've done it by the strength of my hand, and by my wisdom, because I'm so clever. <n>{Lit. I have understanding}</n> I removed the boundaries of peoples, and plundered their treasures; like a bull I brought down those who sat on thrones. 


text:
My hand has found, as if in a nest, the wealth of the people; and as one gathers eggs that have been abandoned, so I have gathered all the inhabitants of the <n>{1QIsa a MT lack inhabitants of the}</n> earth. Nothing moved a wing, opened its mouth, or chirped.'


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"Does the ax exalt itself over the one who swings it? Or does the saw magnify itself in opposition to the one who wields it? As if a rod were to wield those who lift <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX reads the one who lifts}</n> it, or as if a club were to brandish the one who is not wood! 


text:
Therefore, the Lord God <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; other LXX MT mss read Lord}</n> of the Heavenly Armies will send a wasting disease among Assyria's <n>{Lit. his}</n> sturdy warriors, and under its glory a conflagration will be kindled, like a blazing bonfire. 


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"The light of Israel will become a fire, and its Holy One a flame, and it will burn and consume Assyria's <n>{Lit. its}</n> thorns and briers in a single day. 


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The splendor of its forest and its fruitful land the Lord will destroy both soul and body and Assyria <n>{Lit. it}</n> will be as when a dying man wastes away. 


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What survives of the trees in his forest will be so few that a child can count them." <n>{Lit. can write them down}</n> 


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<n>{The Remnant Returns}</n> d At that time, the remnant of Israel and the survivors of the house of Jacob will no longer rely on the one who struck them down, but will truly rely on the Lord , the Holy One of Israel. 


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For even if your people of Israel number as many as the sand of the sea, only a remnant of them will return. Overwhelming, righteous destruction is decreed, 


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because the Lord God of the Heavenly Armies <n>{So 1QIsa a ; LXX, MT mss lack Lord of the Heavenly Armies}</n> will bring about destruction, as has been decreed, throughout <n>{Lit. in the midst of}</n> the entire region. <n>{Lit. land}</n> 


text:
Therefore this is what the Lord God of the Heavenly Armies says: "My people, you who live in Zion, don't be afraid of the Assyrians, of the rod that beats you, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Assyrians, when they strike you with a rod}</n> who lift up their club against you as the Egyptians did. 


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In just a little while, my fury will come to an end, and my anger then will be directed to their destruction. <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT mss. read end ; LXX reads counsel}</n> 


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The Lord of the Heavenly Armies will brandish a whip against them, as when he struck Midian at the rock of Oreb; <n>{Cf. Judg 7:25}</n> and as his staff was stretched out <n>{1QIsa a MT lack stretched out}</n> over the sea, <n>{Cf. Exod 14:16,26}</n> so he will lift it up as he did in Egypt. 


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At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day ; so 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa c reads On a day}</n> his burden will depart from your shoulder and his yoke from your neck. Indeed, the yoke will be broken, because you've become obese." <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks because you've become obese .}</n> 


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<n>{The Coming Judgment of God}</n> d "The Assyrian commander <n>{Lit. He}</n> has come upon <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa c LXX read to}</n> Aiath and has passed through Migron; he stores his supplies at Michmash. 


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He has <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads They have}</n> crossed over by <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks by}</n> the pass; his overnight lodging is at Geba. Ramah trembles; Gibeah of Saul has fled. 


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Cry aloud, you daughter of Gallim! Pay attention, Laish! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Laishah}</n> Poor Anathoth! 


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Marmenah <n>{So 1QIsa a Syr.; MT LXX read Madmenah}</n> is in flight; the inhabitants of Gebim take cover. 


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This very day he will halt at Nob; <n>{I.e. city where the ephod was stored during the reign of Saul; cf. 1Sam 22:13-20}</n> he will shake <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads brandish}</n> his fists <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads fist}</n> at the mountain that is the Daughter of Zion, at Jerusalem's hill. 


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Behold, the Lord God of the Heavenly Armies will lop off its <n>{Lit. the}</n> boughs with terrifying power; the tallest in height will be cut down, and the lofty will be brought low. 


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He will cut down the thickets of the forest with an ax, and Lebanon will fall by the Majestic One." <n>{Or fall, along with its majestic trees}</n> 


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<n>{The Reign of the Davidic King}</n> d "A shoot will come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch will bear fruit from his roots. 


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The Spirit of the Lord will rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and power, the Spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord . 


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His delight will be in the fear of the Lord . He won't judge by what his eyes see, nor decide disputes by what his ears hear, 


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but with righteousness he will judge the needy, and decide with equity for <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read for the}</n> earth's poor. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read humble}</n> He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, <n>{I.e. by pronouncing judgment}</n> and the wicked will be killed <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a corrector MT LXX read he will kill the wicked}</n> with the breath of his lips. 


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<n>{A Transformed Ecology}</n> d "The wolf will live with the lamb; the leopard will lie down with the young goat. The calf and the lion will graze <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads lion and the fattened calf}</n> together, and a little child will lead them. 


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The cow and the bear will graze, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> their young will lie down together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox. 


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The nursing child will play over the hole of the cobra, and the weaned child will put his hand on vipers'dens. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads a viper's den ; LXX reads a den of vipers}</n> 


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They will neither harm nor destroy on <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa c MT read on all}</n> my holy mountain; for the earth will be full of the knowledge <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa c LXX read to know}</n> of the Lord, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa c reads of glory ; cf. Hab 2:14}</n> as the waters cover the sea." 


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<n>{Israel Regathered}</n> d At that time, <n>{Lit. day}</n> as to <n>{1QIsa a MT lack as to}</n> the root of Jesse, who will be standing as a banner for the peoples, the nations will rally to him, and his resting place is <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT LXX read place will be}</n> glorious. 


text:
At that time, <n>{Lit. day}</n> the Lord will reach out his hand yet a second time to recover the remnant that is left of his people, from Assyria, from Lower Egypt, from Upper Egypt, <n>{Lit. from Egypt, from Pathros}</n> from Cush, from Elam, from Shinar, from Hamath, and from the islands <n>{Or coastlands}</n> of the sea. 


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He will raise a banner for the nations and will assemble the dispersed of Israel; he will gather the scattered people of Judah from the corners <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa a MT LXX read four corners}</n> of the earth. 


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<n>{Israel's Victory over Its Enemies}</n> d Ephraim's jealousy will vanish, <n>{Lit. depart}</n> and those who are hostile to Judah will be eliminated; <n>{Lit. be cut off}</n> Ephraim will no longer be jealous of Judah, and Judah will not be hostile to Ephraim. 


text:
But they <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa a Targ read he}</n> will swoop down on the slopes <n>{Lit. backs}</n> of the Philistines to the west, and they will plunder <n>{So pap4QIsa e 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read the west; together they will plunder}</n> the people to <n>{Lit. of}</n> the east. They'll lay their hands on Edom and Moab, and the Ammonites will be subject to them. 


text:
The Lord will totally destroy the gulf <n>{Lit. tongue}</n> of the Sea of Egypt. He will sweep his hand over the Euphrates River with a violent wind, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read his violent wind}</n> breaking it up into seven streams, and making a way for people to cross on foot. 


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And there will be a highway for the remnant that is left of his people out of Assyria, as there was for Israel when they came up from the land of Egypt. 


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<n>{Israel's Praise to the Lord}</n> d At that time, <n>{Lit. day}</n> you will say: "I will praise you, Lord , for although you were angry with me, your anger has turned away, and you have comforted me. 


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"Look! God yes God is <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Look! God is ; LXX reads Look! The Lord is the God of}</n> my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid. For the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss LXX; MT reads Lord God}</n> is my strength and my song, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss LXX; MT reads a song}</n> and he has become my salvation." 


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You will draw water joyfully from the wells of salvation. And you will say at that time: <n>{Lit. say in that day}</n> 


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"Give thanks to the Lord; call on his name. Make known his actions among the nations. Proclaim that his name is exalted. 


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"Sing praises to the Lord , <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads to the Lord ; LXX reads to the name of the Lord}</n> because he has acted gloriously, being made <n>{So Isa a MT qere Syr Targ; the Heb. lacks made}</n> known in all the world. 


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Shout aloud, and sing for joy, you who live in Zion, because great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel." 


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<n>{The Destruction of Babylon}</n> d A message <n>{Lit. An oracle}</n> that Amoz's son Isaiah received <n>{Lit. saw}</n> about Babylon: 


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"Raise a banner on a bare hilltop! Cry out loud to them! Give a wave of the hand, signaling <n>{The Heb. lacks signaling}</n> for them to enter <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads for them to enter ; LXX lacks to enter}</n> the gates of the nobles. 


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I myself have commanded my consecrated ones; I have also summoned my warriors, those who rejoice in my triumph, to carry out my angry judgments. <n>{Lit. my anger}</n> 


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"Listen! There's a noise on the mountains like that of a great multitude! Listen! There's an uproar among the kingdoms, like that of nations massing together! The Lord of the Heavenly Armies is mustering an army for battle. 


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They're coming from a faraway land, from the distant horizon <n>{Lit. end of the heavens}</n> the Lord and the weapons of his anger to destroy the entire land." <n>{Or earth}</n> 


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<n>{The Day of the Lord}</n> d Wail out loud, because the Day of the Lord is near. It will come like destruction from the Almighty! 


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Because of this, every hand <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads all hands}</n> will go limp, and every man's courage <n>{Lit. heart}</n> will melt. 


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They will be terrified; pain and anguish will seize them; they'll writhe like a woman in labor. They'll look aghast at one another; and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; 4QIsa a 4QIsa b MT lack and}</n> their faces will be ablaze with fear. <n>{DSS MT lack with fear}</n> 


text:
Watch out! The Day of the Lord is coming cruel, with wrath and fierce anger to turn the entire inhabited <n>{So LXX; 1QIsa a lacks the entire inhabited ; the Heb. lacks entire inhabited}</n> earth <n>{LXX lacks earth}</n> into a desolation and to annihilate sinners <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa a 4QIsa b MT read its sinners}</n> from it. 


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For the stars of the heavens and their constellations won't shine <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads beam}</n> their light; the sun will be dark when it rises, and the moon won't shine its light. 


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I'll punish the world for its evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; I'll put an end to the pomposity of the arrogant, and overthrow the insolence of tyrants. 


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I'll make people scarcer <n>{Lit. people more precious}</n> than pure gold, and mankind rarer <n>{1QIsa a MT lack rarer}</n> than gold from Ophir. 


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Therefore I'll make the heavens tremble. The earth will shake from its place at the wrath of the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, at the time <n>{Lit. in the day}</n> of his burning anger. <n>{Lit. nostrils}</n> 


text:
They <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads it}</n> will be like a hunted gazelle, or like sheep with no one to gather them, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa a reads banished}</n> each will turn to his own people, and each will flee to his own land. 


text:
Whoever is captured will be thrust through, and whoever is caught will fall dead, killed <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks dead, killed}</n> by the sword. 


text:
Their infants will be dashed to pieces before their eyes, and <n>{So 1QIsa a Syr; cf. LXX; 4QIsa a MT lack and}</n> their houses will be looted, and their wives slept with. <n>{So 1QIsa a MT qere ; 4QIsa a MT read raped ; LXX reads they will take ; cf. Deut 28:30}</n> 


text:
<n>{Babylon Falls}</n> d Watch out! I'm stirring up the Medes against them, who care nothing for silver and take no delight in gold. 


text:
Their bows will dash the young men to pieces; they'll show no pity on those not yet born, <n>{Lit. on the fruit of the womb}</n> and <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> their eyes will not spare children. 


text:
Babylon, that jewel of kingdoms, the splendor and pride of the Chaldeans, will be like Sodom and Gomorrah, when God overthrew them 


text:
It will never be inhabited or lived in through all generations; no Bedouin <n>{I.e. Middle Eastern nomadic herders; or Arab}</n> will pitch his tent there; no shepherds will make their flocks lie down there. 


text:
But desert beasts will lie down there, and their houses will be full of howling creatures; there owls <n>{Or ostriches}</n> will dwell, and goat-demons <n>{Or satyrs ; or wild goats}</n> will dance there. 


text:
Hyenas will howl in its strongholds, <n>{Lit. desolate places}</n> and jackals will make their dens in its citadels. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads in the citadels of luxury}</n> Its <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads And its}</n> time is close at hand, and its days will not be extended any further. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack any further}</n> 


text:
<n>{Israel Mocks Babylon's King}</n> d However, the Lord will have compassion on Jacob and will once again choose Israel. He will settle them in their own land, and foreigners will join them, affiliating themselves with the house of Jacob. 


text:
Many <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack Many}</n> nations will take them and bring them to their land and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and to}</n> their own place. The house of Israel will put those nations <n>{Lit. put them}</n> to conscripted labor <n>{Lit. to male and female slavery}</n> in the Lord's land. They will take captive those who were their captors, and will rule continually <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c LXX MT read rule}</n> over those who oppressed them. 


text:
At the time, <n>{Lit. day}</n> when the Lord gives you rest from your suffering, turmoil, and the cruel bondage which they forced you to serve, <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa e ; MT LXX read which you were forced to serve}</n> 


text:
you will lift up this song of mockery against <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa e reads to}</n> the king of Babylon: "How the oppressor has come to an end! How the attacker <n>{1QIsa a LXX; MT reads. the golden city}</n> has ceased! 


text:
that struck down peoples in anger with unceasing blows, that oppressed nations in fury with relentless persecution. 


text:
Even the cypresses rejoice over you, as do <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack as do}</n> the cedars of Lebanon, saying, «Now that you've been laid low, no woodcutter comes up against us.'<n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa e reads against them}</n> 


text:
"The afterlife <n>{Lit. Sheol , i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> below is all astir to meet you when you arrive; <n>{Lit. at your coming}</n> it rouses up the spirits of the dead to greet you everyone who used to be world leaders. It has raised up from their thrones all who used to be kings of the nations. 


text:
In answer, all of them <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa e lacks of them}</n> will tell you, «You've also become as weak as we are! You have become just like us!'


text:
Your <n>{1QIsa a reads The; MT LXX lack Your}</n> pomp has been brought down to Sheol, <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> along with the noise of your harps. Maggots are spread out beneath you, and worms are your covering." <n>{So LXX; MT reads and a worm covers you}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Fall of the Day Star}</n> d "How you have fallen from heaven, Day Star, son of the Dawn! <n>{I.e. Lucifer}</n> How you have been thrown down to earth, you who laid low the nation! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa e MT read the nations ; LXX reads all the nations}</n> 


text:
You said in your heart, «I'll ascend to heaven, above the stars of God. I'll erect my throne; I'll sit <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads and I will sit}</n> on the Mount of Assembly in the far reaches of the north; <n>{Lit. Zaphon ; or the Sacred Mountain}</n> 


text:
But you are brought down to join the dead, <n>{Lit. to Sheol , i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> to the far reaches of the Pit. <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> 


text:
"Those who see you will stare at you. They will wonder about you: «Is this the man who <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks who}</n> made the earth tremble, who made kingdoms quake, 


text:
who made the world like a desert, who <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and who}</n> destroyed its cities, who would not open the jails for his prisoners? '


text:
All the kings of the nations lie <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads nations, every one of them lies}</n> in state, each in his own tomb. 


text:
But you are cast away from your grave, like a repulsive branch, your clothing is the slain, those pierced by the sword; those who go down to the Pit. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; i.e. to the realm of punishment in the afterlife; LXX reads to Hades ; 1QIsa a corrector MT read to the stones of the Pit}</n> Like a dead body trampled underfoot, 


text:
you will not be united <n>{So 1QIsa a ; Lit. under ; MT reads joined}</n> with them <n>{I.e. with the dead}</n> in burial, for you have destroyed your land, you have slain your people. People will never mention the descendants of those who practice evil again! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads May the descendants of those who practice of evil never be mentioned again! ; LXX reads May you not remain forever, you evil seed!}</n> 


text:
Prepare a massacre for his sons because of the guilt of their forefathers! They are not to rise and inherit the earth, and cover <n>{Lit. fill}</n> the surface of the world with cities." 


text:
<n>{Babylon's Desolation}</n> d "I will rise up against them," declares the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, "and I will eliminate from Babylon her name and survivors, her offspring and descendants," <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and her offspring and descendants ; LXX lacks and descendants}</n> declares the Lord . 


text:
"And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack And}</n> I'm going to make it a possession of the hedgehog pools <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and pools}</n> of water and I'll sweep <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads sweep it}</n> with the broom of destruction," declares the Lord of the Heavenly Armies. 


text:
The Lord of the Heavenly Armies has sworn: "Surely as I have planned, that's what she <n>{I.e. Babylon}</n> will become; <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads so has she been}</n> and just as I have determined, so will it remain 


text:
to crush the Assyrian in my land, and on my mountains I will trample him down. His yoke <n>{I.e. Assyria's oppressive domination}</n> will turn away from you, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read from them}</n> and his burden from your <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads their}</n> shoulders." 


text:
"This is what I've planned for the whole earth, and this is the hand that is stretched out over all the nations. 


text:
For the Lord of the Heavenly Armies has planned, and who can thwart him? His hand is stretched out, and who can turn it back?" 


text:
<n>{A Pronouncement against Philistia}</n> d In the year that King Ahaz died this message <n>{Lit. oracle}</n> came: 


text:
"Don't rejoice, all of you Philistines, that the rod that struck you is broken, because from the snake's root a viper will spring up, and its offspring <n>{Lit. fruit}</n> will be a darting, poisonous serpent. 


text:
The firstborn of the poor will find pasture, and the needy will lie down in safety; but I'll kill your root <n>{I.e. the source of their strengths}</n> by famine, and I'll <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read he}</n> execute your survivors. 


text:
Wail, you gate! Cry out, you city! Melt away, <n>{Or melt in fear}</n> all you Philistines! For smoke comes from the north, and there's no one to take measure <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa o MT read no straggler}</n> in its festivals. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa o reads ranks}</n> 


text:
How will they <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads one}</n> answer the messengers of the nation? "The Lord has founded Zion, and in it <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads her}</n> the afflicted among his people will find refuge." 


text:
<n>{Moab's Pending Judgment}</n> d A message <n>{Lit. An oracle}</n> concerning Moab: "For Ir <n>{Or For the city ; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads Ar ; LXX lacks For Ir}</n> in Moab is destroyed in a night, and Moab <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads it; LXX lacks it}</n> is ruined! Because Ir <n>{Or Because the city ; so 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa o MT LXX read Because the wall or Because Kir}</n> in Moab is destroyed in a single night, Moab is ruined! 


text:
He has gone up to the temple, and to Dibon, to the high places to weep; over Nebo and over Medeba Moab wails. His head is completely <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads all its heads are ; MT mss LXX read Over every head ; cf. Jer 48:37}</n> bald, and <n>{So 1QIsa a Mt mss LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> every beard is shaved off. 


text:
In its streets they wear sackcloth; on its rooftops and in its squares everyone wails and falls down <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads falling down ; LXX lacks and falls down}</n> weeping. 


text:
Heshbon and Elealeh cry out, their voices are heard as far as Jahaz; therefore the loins <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; MT reads armed men}</n> of Moab cry aloud; its heart quakes for itself. 


text:
My heart cries out over Moab; her fugitives flee as far as Zoar, as far as Eglath-shelishiyah. For at the ascent to Luhith they go up weeping; on the road to Horonaim they raise a cry of destruction. 


text:
The Nimrim waters are desolate; the grass is withered, its vegetation gone; there is <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads was or there has been ; LXX reads there will be}</n> no foliage left. 


text:
Therefore the wealth they have acquired and what they have stored up they carry them away over the Arab <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; MT reads Willow}</n> Wadi. <n>{I.e. a seasonal stream or river that channels water during rain seasons but is dry at other times}</n> 


text:
For the cry has gone out along the border of Moab; her wailing reaches as far as Eglaim, her wailing reaches as far as Beer-elim. 


text:
The Dibon <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Dimon ; LXX reads Remmon}</n> streams are full of blood; but I will bring upon Dibon <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Dimon ; LXX reads Remmon}</n> even more a lion will pounce <n>{1QIsa a LXX MT lack will pounce}</n> upon those of Moab who escape, upon <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks upon}</n> those who remain in the land." 


text:
<n>{Moab's Destruction}</n> d "Send a lamb to the ruler of the land, from Selah, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Sela ; LXX reads not the rock}</n> by way of the desert, to the mountain of the Daughter of Zion. <n>{I.e. Mt. Zion}</n> 


text:
Like fluttering birds, like an abandoned nest, so are the daughters of Moab at the fords of the Arnon River. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks River}</n> 


text:
"Give us advice; reach a decision! Cast your shadow as if night had come at high noon. Shelter the fugitives, And don't betray a single refugee. 


text:
Let the fugitives <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads my fugitives}</n> from Moab settle among you; be a shelter to them from the destroyer. When the oppressor comes to an end, and destruction has <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads have}</n> ceased, and the marauder <n>{Lit. the one who tramples underfoot}</n> has <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads have}</n> vanished from the land, 


text:
then a throne will be established in gracious love, and there will sit in faithfulness in the Tent of David one who judges, seeks justice, and is swift to do what is right." 


text:
"We've heard about Moab's pride so very proud he became! <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss ; cf. Jer 48:29; MT reads how very proud he was}</n> his arrogance, his pride, and his insolence; therefore he is alone. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read but his boasts mean nothing}</n> 


text:
Therefore, let Moab not <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks not}</n> wail, let everyone wail for Moab. Lament and grieve deeply for the ruined remains <n>{Or for the raisin cakes}</n> of Kir-hareseth. 


text:
For the fields of Heshbon wither, as well as the vines of Sibmah. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX include the rest of v. 8: The rulers vine of Sibmah in v. 9}</n> The rulers of the nations have struck down its choicest vines, which once reached Jazer and pushed to the desert. Its shoots spread out and passed over the sea." 


text:
<n>{Isaiah Weeps for Moab}</n> d "Therefore I weep with the tears of Jazer for the vines of Sibmah. I drench you with my tears, O Heshbon and Elealeh for the shouts of joy over your summer fruit and your grain harvest have ended. 


text:
Joy and gladness are taken away from the orchards, in the vineyards people will sing no songs, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads no songs are sung}</n> and <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> no cheers are raised. No vintner <n>{Lit. treader}</n> treads out wine in the presses, because I've put an end to the shouting. 


text:
Therefore my insides <n>{16:11Or heart ; lit. bowels}</n> moan like a lyre for Moab, and my innermost being <n>{Or my very soul}</n> for Kir-hareseth. 


text:
When Moab appears, when he arrives <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read tires himself}</n> upon the high place and comes to his sanctuary to pray, he will not prevail." 


text:
But now the Lord has spoken again: "Within three years, like the years of a contract worker, <n>{I.e. as if carefully counted pursuant to an employment contract; cf. Isa 21:16}</n> Moab's glory will be brought into contempt, in spite of all its great multitude, and its survivors will be very few and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> of no importance." 


text:
<n>{A Rebuke to Damascus}</n> d A message <n>{Lit. An oracle}</n> about Damascus: <n>{So MT LXX; 1QIsa a reads Dramascus}</n> "Look! Damascus <n>{So MT LXX; 1QIsa a reads Dramascus}</n> will cease to be a city. Instead, it will become a pile of ruins. 


text:
The cities of Oraru <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Aroer , a pun on the Heb. word for ruins ; LXX reads forever}</n> will be deserted they will be devoted to herds that will lay at rest, and terrorism will be no more. <n>{Lit. and no one will make them afraid}</n> 


text:
The fortress will disappear from Ephraim, and royal authority from Damascus; <n>{So MT LXX; 1QIsa a reads Dramascus}</n> the survivors <n>{I.e. believing Jews who return}</n> from Aram <n>{I.e. Syria}</n> will be like the glory of the Israelis," declares the Lord of the Heavenly Armies. 


text:
<n>{A Time of Weakness for Israel}</n> d "At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> Jacob's glory will have become weakened, and his strong <n>{Lit. fat}</n> flesh will turn gaunt; 


text:
it will be as if harvesters gather standing grain, reaping the ears by hand, <n>{Lit. ears with his arm}</n> or it will be as if grain is harvested in the valley of Rephaim. <n>{Lit. Giants}</n> 


text:
Nevertheless, gleanings will remain in Israel, <n>{Lit. it}</n> as when an olive tree is beaten <n>{Or harvested}</n> two or three ripe olives left in the topmost branches, four or five left among the branches of a fruit-filled tree," <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads among its branches}</n> declares the Lord God of Israel. 


text:
<n>{Revival to Come to Israel}</n> d At that time, men will look upon <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; MT reads to}</n> their Maker, and their eyes will honor the Holy One of Israel. 


text:
They will not look upon <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; MT reads to}</n> the altars, the products <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read the product}</n> that their own fingers <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read hands}</n> have made, and they will have no regard for Asherah poles <n>{I.e. images of the Babylonian-Canaanite goddess of fortune}</n> or incense altars. <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX reads for trees or for their abominations}</n> 


text:
<n>{Desolation to the Nations}</n> d "At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day,}</n> their fortified cities that they abandoned because of the Israelis will be like desolate places <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; MT reads place}</n> of the forests and hilltops <n>{Or the Hivites and Amorites}</n> there will be desolation. 


text:
For you have forgotten the God of your salvation and have not remembered the Rock that is your strength. Therefore even though you plant delightful plants, sowing them with imported vine-seedlings, 


text:
at the time that you plant them, carefully making them grow, the very morning you make your seed to sprout, your harvest will be ruined <n>{Lit. become a pile}</n> in a time of grief and unbearable pain." <n>{Lit. and sorrow}</n> 


text:
"How terrible it will be for many peoples, who rage like the roaring sea! Oh, how the uproar of nations is like the sound of rushing, mighty water How they roar! 


text:
The nations roar like the rushing of many waters, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; cf. LXX; MT ms Syr lack this line}</n> but the Lord <n>{Lit. but he}</n> will rebuke them, and they will run far away, chased like chaff blown down from the mountains or like thick dust <n>{Lit. like something}</n> that rolls along, blown along by a wind storm. 


text:
When the evening arrives, watch out sudden terror! By morning they will be there no longer! So it will be for those who plunder us and what will happen to those who rob us." 


text:
<n>{A Rebuke to Cush}</n> d Woe to the land of whirring wings that is beyond the rivers of Cush, <n>{I.e. Nubia, south of Egypt (modern northern Sudan)}</n> 


text:
which sends envoys by the sea, <n>{Or Nile}</n> in papyrus boats over the water! Go, swift messengers, to a tall, smooth-skinned nation, to a people feared far and wide, a nation that metes out <n>{Or nation of strange speech ; so 1QIsa a MT; LXX reads nation without hope}</n> punishment <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack punishment}</n> and oppresses, whose land the rivers divide. 


text:
All you inhabitants of the world, you who live on the earth, when a banner is raised on the mountains, you'll see it. When a trumpet sounds, you'll hear it! 


text:
For this is what the Lord told me: "I will remain quiet and watch in my dwelling place like dazzling heat in sunshine, like a cloud of dew in the heat <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT mss LXX read on the day}</n> of harvest." 


text:
For before the harvest, when the season of <n>{1QIsa a MT lack season of}</n> budding is over, and sour grapes ripen into mature grapes, <n>{Lit. flowers}</n> he cuts off the shoots with pruning knives, clearing away the spreading branches as he lops them off. 


text:
And <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa b lacks And}</n> they will all be left for birds of prey that live on the mountains <n>{So 4QIsa b ; 1QIsa a MT read of mountains ; LXX reads mountains of heaven}</n> and for wild animals. <n>{Lit. for beasts of the earth ; i.e. non-domesticated animals, as opposed to domesticated livestock;}</n> Birds of prey will pass the summer feeding on them, and all the wild animals <n>{Lit. the beasts of the earth ; so 1QIsa a ; i.e. non-domesticated animals, as opposed to domesticated livestock; MT LXX read every beast of the field}</n> will pass the winter feeding <n>{1QIsa a MT lack feeding}</n> on them. 


text:
At that time tribute will be brought to the Lord of the Heavenly Armies from <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa b MT lack from}</n> a tall and smooth-skinned people, from a people feared far and wide, a nation that metes out <n>{Or nation of strange speech ; so 1QIsa a MT; LXX reads nation with hope}</n> punishment <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack punishment}</n> and oppresses, whose land the rivers divide, to Mount Zion, the place that bears <n>{Lit. place of}</n> the name of the Lord . <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read the Lord of the Heavenly Armies}</n> 


text:
<n>{A Rebuke to Egypt}</n> d A message <n>{Lit. An oracle}</n> about Egypt: "Watch out! The Lord rides on a swift cloud, and is coming to Egypt. The idols of Egypt tremble before him, and the hearts of the Egyptians melt within them. 


text:
I will stir up Egyptians against Egyptians, and everyone will fight against his brother, everyone against his neighbor, city <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> against city, kingdom against kingdom. 


text:
The spirits of the Egyptians within them will be drained of courage, <n>{1QIsa a MT lack of courage}</n> and I will bring their plans to nothing. They will consult idols <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads consult the idols ; LXX reads consult their idols}</n> and spirits of the dead, and mediums and spiritists. 


text:
I will hand the Egyptians over to the power of a cruel master, and a fierce king will rule over them," declares the Lord God of the Heavenly Armies. 


text:
<n>{A Rebuke to Egypt's Ecology and Industry}</n> d "The water sources <n>{1QIsa a MT lack sources}</n> of the Nile <n>{Or the sea}</n> will be dried up, and the river <n>{I.e. the Nile}</n> will become dry and parched. 


text:
The canals will stink, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> the tributaries of Egypt will dwindle and dry up. Reeds and rushes will wither away. <n>{So 4QIsa b MT; 1QIsa a lacks this line}</n> 


text:
And the bulrushes along the Nile, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks this line}</n> along the mouth of the Nile, <n>{Lit. the River}</n> will wither away. All the sown fields of the Nile will become parched, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> they will be blown away; there will be nothing left. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT read and will be no more ; LXX lacks this line}</n> 


text:
The fishermen will groan, and all who cast hooks into the Nile will lament; those who spread nets upon the water will become weaker and weaker. 


text:
The workers <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa b ; MT LXX read And the workers}</n> in combed flax and the weavers of white linen will be in despair. 


text:
Egypt's <n>{Lit. Its}</n> workers in cloth <n>{Lit. Its weavers}</n> will be crushed, and all who work for wages will be sick at heart." 


text:
<n>{A Rebuke to Egypt's Leaders}</n> d Zoan's princes are nothing but fools; the wisest advisors of Pharaoh give stupid advice. How can you say to Pharaoh, "I'm a descendant of wise men, a descendant of ancient kings" ? 


text:
Where are your wise men now? Let them tell you, let them make known what the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a corrector MT LXX read Lord of the Heavenly Armies}</n> has planned against Egypt. 


text:
The princes of Zoan have become fools, and the princes of Memphis deluded; the leaders <n>{Or cornerstones}</n> of its tribes have led Egypt astray. 


text:
The Lord has mixed <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa b reads has poured}</n> within them <n>{Lit. it}</n> a spirit of confusion; so they make Egypt stagger in all that it does, like a drunkard staggers around in his vomit. 


text:
As a result, there will be nothing for Egypt that head or tail, palm branch or reed, can do. <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa b reads do at that time}</n> 


text:
<n>{Egypt and Syria Will Worship God}</n> d At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day ; so 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa b lacks At that time}</n> the Egyptians will be like women they <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT read he}</n> will shudder and be afraid before the uplifted hand of the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, when he brandishes his hand against her. <n>{I.e. Egypt; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads Armies, which he brandishes against it ; LXX reads Armies, which he brandishes against them}</n> 


text:
And the land of Judah will become a terror to the Egyptians. Everyone to whom it is mentioned will be afraid, because of the uplifted hand <n>{Lit. plotting ; so 4QIsa b ; 1QIsa a MT LXX read plan}</n> of the Lord of the Heavenly Armies that <n>{So 4QIsa b ; 1QIsa a MT LXX read hand that the Lord of the Heavenly Armies}</n> is turning in their direction. 


text:
At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> there will be five cities in the land of Egypt that speak the language of Canaan and swear allegiance to the Lord of the Heavenly Armies. One of them will be called the City of the Sun. <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa b MT mss ; MT reads Destruction ; LXX reads Asedek City ; i.e. City of Righteousness}</n> 


text:
At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> there will be an altar to the Lord of the Heavenly Armies <n>{So 4QIsa b ; 1QIsa a MT LXX lack of the Heavenly Armies}</n> in the heart of the land of Egypt, and a monument to the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa b reads Lord of hosts}</n> at its border. 


text:
It will be a sign and a witness to the Lord of the Heavenly Armies in the land of Egypt; when they cry out to the Lord because of their oppressors, he will send them a savior, and he will come down <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read will defend}</n> and rescue them. 


text:
So the Lord will make himself known to the Egyptians, and the Egyptians will acknowledge the Lord . At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> they will worship <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Lord on that day. And they will worship}</n> with sacrifices and offerings, and they will make vows to the Lord and carry them out. 


text:
The Lord will strike Egypt with a plague, striking but then healing. Then they will turn to the Lord , and he will respond to their pleas and heal them. 


text:
At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria. The Assyrians will come into Egypt, and the Egyptians into Assyria, and they <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read and the Egyptians}</n> will worship with the Assyrians. 


text:
At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> Israel will be in a triple alliance <n>{Lit. will be the third}</n> with Egypt and Assyria; they will be <n>{DSS MT lack they will be}</n> a blessing in the midst of the earth. 


text:
The Lord of the Heavenly Armies has blessed them, saying, "Blessed be Egypt my people, Assyria the work of my hands, and Israel my inheritance." 


text:
<n>{The Conquest of Egypt and Cush}</n> d In the year that the supreme commander, sent by Sargon the king of Assyria, came to Ashdod, attacked it, and captured it 


text:
at that time the Lord spoke through Amoz's son Isaiah: "Go loosen the sackcloth that's around your waist, <n>{Lit. your hips and lower back}</n> and take your sandals <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads sandal}</n> off your feet." So that's what he did: he went around naked and barefoot. 


text:
Then the Lord said, "Just as my servant Isaiah has walked around naked and barefoot for three years as a sign and a warning for Egypt and Ethiopia, <n>{I.e. Nubia, south of Egypt (modern northern Sudan)}</n> 


text:
so the king of Assyria will lead away the Egyptian captives and exiles from Cush, <n>{I.e. Nubia, south of Egypt (modern northern Sudan)}</n> both the young and the old, naked and barefoot with even their buttocks uncovered to the shame <n>{Or nakedness}</n> of Egypt. 


text:
Then they will be dismayed and put to shame because of Cush, <n>{I.e. Nubia, south of Egypt (modern northern Sudan)}</n> their hope, and Egypt, their jewel. <n>{Or pride}</n> 


text:
At that time, the inhabitants of this coastland will say, «See, this is what has happened to those on whom we counted and relied <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and to whom we fled}</n> for help and deliverance from the king of Assyria! How, then, can we escape?»" 


text:
<n>{Elam and Media are Rebuked}</n> d A message <n>{Lit. An oracle}</n> concerning the pasture <n>{Or plague ; cf. Isa 5:17; 1King 8:37; Jer 14:12; MT LXX read wilderness}</n> by the Sea. "Like whirlwinds in the Negev <n>{I.e. southern regions of the Sinai peninsula; cf. Josh 10:40}</n> sweep on, it comes from the desert, from a distant <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a corrector MT LXX read terrible}</n> land. 


text:
A dire vision has been announced to me: the traitor betrays, and the plunderer takes loot. Get up, Elam! Attack, Media! I am putting a stop to all the groaning she has caused. 


text:
Therefore my body is <n>{Or waist ; lit. my hips and lower back are}</n> racked with pain; pangs have seized me, like the pangs of a woman in labor; I am so upset that I cannot hear; I am so frightened that I cannot see while I'm reeling around. <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa a ; MT LXX begin v. 4 with this line}</n> 


text:
And as for my heart, <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa a ; MT LXX read 4 My mind reels}</n> horror has terrified me; the twilight I longed for has started to make me tremble. 


text:
They set the tables; they spread the carpets; <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks this line}</n> they eat, they drink! Get up, you officers! Oil the shields!" 


text:
<n>{The Fall of Babylon}</n> d For this is what the Lord told me: "Go post a lookout. Have him report what he sees. 


text:
When he sees chariots, each man <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa a ; cf. v. 9; MT LXX lack each man}</n> with a pair of horses, riders on donkeys or riders on <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads train of donkeys or train of}</n> camels, let him pay attention, full attention." 


text:
Then the lookout <n>{So 1QIsa a Syr; MT reads Then a lion}</n> shouted: "Upon a watchtower I stand, O Lord, continually by day, and I am stationed at my post throughout the night. 


text:
Look! Here come riders, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads chariot ; cf. v. 7}</n> each man with a pair of horses!" They're shouting out the answer: "Babylon has fallen, has fallen, and they have shattered all the images of her gods <n>{So 1QIsa a ; LXX reads all the images of her gods are shattered ; MT reads He has shattered all the images of her gods}</n> on the ground! 


text:
O my downtrodden people, <n>{1QIsa a lacks people}</n> my wall! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads my threshing floor}</n> I'll tell you what I have heard from the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel." 


text:
<n>{A Message about Dumah}</n> d A message <n>{Lit. An oracle}</n> concerning Dumah. "Someone is calling to me from Seir: «Watchman, what is left of the night? <n>{Or What time of night?}</n> Watchman, what is left of the night? '<n>{Or What time of night?}</n> 


text:
The watchman replies: «Morning is coming, but also the night. If you want to ask, then ask; come back again.»" 


text:
<n>{A Message about Arabia}</n> d A message <n>{Lit. An oracle}</n> concerning Arabia. "You will camp in the thickets in Arabia, you caravans of the Dedanites. 


text:
Bring water for the thirsty, you who live in the land of Tema. Meet the fugitive with bread, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads with his bread ; 4QIsa a reads and with his bread}</n> 


text:
For he has fled <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads they have fled}</n> from swords, from the drawn sword, from the bent bow, and from the heat of battle." 


text:
For this is what the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa a ; MT reads Lord}</n> is saying to me: "Within three years, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Within a year}</n> according to the years of a contract worker, <n>{I.e. as if carefully counted pursuant to an employment contract; cf. Isa 16:14}</n> the pomp <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads years, all the pomp}</n> of Kedar will come to an end. 


text:
And there will be few archers, those who are descendants of Kedar, who survive, because the Lord , the God of Israel, has spoken." 


text:
<n>{Jerusalem is Rebuked}</n> d A message <n>{Lit. An oracle}</n> concerning the Valley of Vision. <n>{I.e. a poetic allusion to the Hinnom Valley in Jerusalem}</n> "What troubles you, now that you've all gone up to the rooftops, 


text:
you who are full of commotion, you passionate city, you rollicking town? Your slain weren't killed by the sword, nor are they dead in battle. 


text:
All your leaders have fled together; she is captured <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads they were captured}</n> without using bows. All of you who were caught were captured together, although they had fled while the enemy was still <n>{The Heb. lacks while the enemy was still}</n> far away. 


text:
Therefore I said: "Look away from me; and let me weep bitter tears; don't try to console <n>{Lit. don't insist on consoling}</n> me over the destruction of the daughter of my people." <n>{I.e. the Lord's beloved people}</n> 


text:
For to the Lord God of the Heavenly Armies belongs the day of tumult, trampling, and confusion in the Valley of Vision, <n>{I.e. a poetic allusion to the Hinnom Valley in Jerusalem}</n> and the pulling down of his Temple on <n>{Or his Holy Place on ; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads and a crying out for help to}</n> its mountain. 


text:
And it will come about <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads it came about}</n> that your choicest valleys will be filled with chariots, and horsemen will take their positions at the gates. 


text:
He has uncovered the defenses of Judah." At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> you looked at the arsenal of the Palace of the Forest, <n>{Cf. 1King 10:16-17}</n> 


text:
and saw that there were many breaches in the City of David. So you stored up water from the Lower Pool, 


text:
and built a reservoir between the walls to store water from the Old Pool. But you did not look at <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX 4QIsa c read to}</n> the One who did it, nor did you see the One who planned it long ago. 


text:
On that day the Lord G od of the Heavenly Armies called for weeping and mourning, for shaving heads <n>{Lit. for baldness}</n> and wearing sackcloth. 


text:
But look! There is joy and festivity, slaughtering of cattle and killing of sheep, eating meat and drinking <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 1QIsa c reads and they drink}</n> wine. "Let us eat and drink, you say, because we die tomorrow." 


text:
"Nevertheless, the Lord of the Heavenly Armies has revealed himself to my hearing: "Surely because of you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT LXX lack because of you}</n> this iniquity will not be forgiven you until you die,'says the Lord G od of the Heavenly Armies." 


text:
<n>{The Lord Rebukes Shebna}</n> d This is what the Lord God of the Heavenly Armies <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT mss LXX read Lord of the Heavenly Armies}</n> says: "Come, go to this steward, to Shebna who is in charge of the household, and ask him: 


text:
«What are you doing here, and who are your relatives here <n>{Lit. whom do you have here}</n> that you could carve out a grave for yourself here cutting out a tomb at the choicest location, <n>{Lit. at the height}</n> chiseling out a resting place for yourself out of solid rock? 


text:
Look Out! The Lord is about to hurl you away violently, my strong fellow! He <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa a 4QIsa b MT LXX read And he}</n> will fold you up completely, 


text:
rolling you up tightly like a ball and throwing you into a large country. There <n>{So 4QIsa f ; 1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa a MT read To there ; cf. LXX}</n> you will die, and there <n>{So 4QIsa f ; 1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa a MT read and to there ; cf. LXX}</n> your splendid chariots will lie. You're a disgrace to your master's house! 


text:
I will depose you from your office, ousting you <n>{Lit. he has ousted you ; so 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa f MT LXX ms read he will oust you ; LXX lacks he has ousted you}</n> from your position. 


text:
"At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> I'll call for my servant, Hilkiah's <n>{Lit. Hilkyah ; so 1QIsa a 4QIsa f}</n> son Eliakim, 


text:
and I'll clothe him with your robe and fasten your sash around him. I'll transfer your authority to him, <n>{Lit. to his hand}</n> and he'll be a father to those who live in Jerusalem and to the house of Judah. 


text:
"I'll place on his shoulder the key to the house of David what he opens, no one will shut, and what he shuts, no one will open. 


text:
I'll set him like a peg into a secure place; he will become a throne of honor to his father's house. 


text:
The entire reputation of his father's house will hang on him: its offspring and offshoots all its smaller vessels, from the cups to all the jars. 


text:
At that time," <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> declares the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa f reads the Lord God}</n> of the Heavenly Armies, "the peg that was driven into a secure place will give way; it will be sheared and will fall, and the load hanging on it will be cut down." The Lord has spoken. 


text:
<n>{Tyre is Rebuked}</n> d A message <n>{Lit. An oracle}</n> concerning Tyre. "Wail, you ships of Tarshish, for Tyre is destroyed and is without house or harbor! From the land of Cyprus <n>{Lit. of the Kittim}</n> it was revealed to them. 


text:
"Be silent, <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa a MT; LXX reads To whom are they like?}</n> you inhabitants of the coast, you merchants of Sidon, whose messengers crossed over the sea, <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa a LXX; MT reads you whom the merchants of Sidon, passing over the sea , have replenished}</n> 


text:
and were on mighty waters. Her revenue was the grain of Shihor, the harvest of the Nile; and she became the marketplace of nations. 


text:
Be ashamed, Sidon, because the sea <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa a MT read for he}</n> has spoken, the fortress of the sea: I have neither been in labor nor given birth, I have neither reared young men nor brought up young women." 


text:
"You who are crossing over <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Cross over}</n> to Tarshish Wail, you inhabitants of the coast! 


text:
Is this your exciting <n>{Or happy}</n> city, that was founded long ago, whose feet carried her to settle in far-off lands? 


text:
Who has planned this against Tyre, that bestower of crowns, whose merchants were princes, <n>{So 1QIsa a corrector}</n> whose traders were the most renowned on earth? 


text:
The Lord of the Heavenly Armies has planned it to neutralize all the hubris of grandeur, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads the hubris of all grandeur}</n> to discredit all the renowned men of earth. 


text:
"Cultivate <n>{Or Worship ; so 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa c MT read Pass through}</n> your land like the Nile, you daughter of Tarshish; for there is no longer a harbor. 


text:
He has stretched out his hand over the sea; he has made <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa c reads to make}</n> kingdoms tremble. The Lord has issued orders concerning Canaan to destroy its strongholds. 


text:
And he said: «You will revel no longer, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa c reads won't take refuge to revel ; or won't revel with gusto}</n> you virgin daughter of Sidon, now crushed. Get up, cross over to Cyprus but even there you will find no rest.»" 


text:
<n>{Tyre's Desolation and Restoration}</n> d "Look at the land of the Chaldeans! This is a people that no longer exist; Assyria destined her <n>{I.e. Tyre}</n> for desert creatures. <n>{Or demons}</n> They raised up her <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads his}</n> siege towers, they stripped her fortresses bare and turned her into a ruin. 


text:
Wail, you ships of Tarshish, because your <n>{So 1QIsa a (sing.); MT LXX (pl.)}</n> stronghold is destroyed!" 


text:
It will happen at that time that Tyre will be forgotten for 70 years, the span of a king's life. Then, at the end of those 70 years, it will turn out for Tyre as in the prostitute's song: <n>{So 1QIsa c MT LXX; 1QIsa a lacks that Tyre will be forgotten for 70 years, the span of a king's life. Then, at the end of those 70 years}</n> 


text:
"Take a harp; walk around the city, you forgotten whore! Make sweet melody; sing many songs, and perhaps you'll be remembered." 


text:
At the end of 70 years, the Lord will deal with Tyre, at which time she'll return to her courtesan's trade, and prostitute herself with the kingdoms <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read all the kingdoms}</n> of the world on the surface of the earth. 


text:
Nevertheless, her profits and her earnings will be dedicated <n>{Or given}</n> to the Lord ; they will not be stored up or hoarded but her profits will go to those who live in the Lord's presence, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa c reads but will be for those who live in the Lord's presence. And her profits will be}</n> for abundant food and choice clothing. 


text:
<n>{The Earth is Judged}</n> d "Watch out! The Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa c reads Lord}</n> is about to depopulate the land and devastate it; he will turn it upside down <n>{Or distort its surface}</n> and scatter its inhabitants. 


text:
It will be the same for the lay people as for priests, the same for servants as for their masters, for female servants as for their mistresses, for buyers as for sellers, for lenders as for borrowers, and for creditors as for debtors. 


text:
The earth will be utterly depopulated and completely laid waste for the Lord has spoken this message. <n>{Lit. word}</n> 


text:
"The earth dries up and withers; the world languishes and fades away; heaven fades away, along with the earth. <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c ; MT reads the heavens fade away ; cf. LXX reads the exalted ones of the earth mourn}</n> 


text:
The earth lies defiled beneath its inhabitants; because they have transgressed the laws, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa c LXX read the Law}</n> violated the statutes, and broken the everlasting covenant. 


text:
Therefore the curse keeps on consuming, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT LXX read consuming the earth}</n> and its inhabitants are declared guilty. Furthermore, the inhabitants of earth are ablaze, and few people are left. 


text:
The new wine evaporates; the vine and the oil <n>{So 4QIsa c ; 1QIsa a MT LXX lack and the oil}</n> dry up; all the merrymakers groan. 


text:
"The celebrations of the tambourine have ended, the noise of the jubilant has stopped, and the mirth that the harp produces has ended. 


text:
No longer do they drink wine accompanied by singing; even beer <n>{Or and strong drink}</n> tastes bitter to those who drink it. 


text:
The chaotic city lies broken down; every house is closed up so that no one can enter them. <n>{1QIsa a MT lack them}</n> 


text:
There is an outcry in the streets over wine; all cheer turns to gloom; the fun times of the earth are banished. 


text:
So it will be on the earth and among the nations as when an olive tree is beaten, or as gleanings when the grape harvest has ended." 


text:
<n>{Glorifying God}</n> d "They raise their voices; they shout for joy; <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa c reads and they shout}</n> from the west <n>{Lit. sea ; so 1QIsa a MT; cf. LXX; 4QIsa c reads day}</n> they shout aloud <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa c reads And they cry out}</n> over the Lord's majesty. 


text:
Therefore, you in the east, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4Q1sa c reads in the east, in Aram ; LXX lacks in the east}</n> give glory to the Lord ! You in the coastlands of the sea, give glory to the name of the Lord God of Israel! 


text:
From the ends of the earth we hear songs of praise: «Glory to the Righteous One! '"But I say, «I am pining away, I'm pining away. How terrible things are for me! For treacherous people betray treacherous people are betraying with treachery!»" 


text:
<n>{The Universal Impact of Judgment}</n> d "Terror and pit and snare are coming in your direction, you inhabitants of the earth! 


text:
Whoever flees at the sound of terror will fall into a pit, and whoever climbs out of the pit will be caught in a snare. For the windows of judgment <n>{1QIsa a MT lack of judgment}</n> from above are opened, and the foundations of the earth are shaken. 


text:
The earth <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Earth}</n> reels to and fro like a drunkard; it sways like a hut; <n>{So MT; 1QIsa a lacks like a hut}</n> its transgression lies so heavy upon it, that it falls, never to rise again. 


text:
"And it will come about at that time, <n>{Lit. about on that day}</n> the Lord will punish the armies of the exalted ones in the heavens, <n>{Or ones on high}</n> and the rulers <n>{Lit. kings}</n> of the earth on earth. 


text:
They <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT LXX read And they}</n> will be herded together <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa c MT read together like prisoners}</n> into the Pit; <n>{I.e., the place of punishment in the afterlife; or into a dungeon ;}</n> they will be shut up in prison, and after many days they will be punished. 


text:
Then the moon will be embarrassed and the sun ashamed, for the Lord of the Heavenly Armies will reign on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem; and in the presence of its elders there will be glory." 


text:
<n>{Praise to the Victorious God}</n> d Lord , you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for you have done marvelous things, plans made long ago in faithfulness and truth. 


text:
For you have made the city a heap of rubble, the fortified city into a ruin; the foreigners'citadel <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT mss LXX read citadel of arrogant people}</n> is no longer a city it will never be rebuilt! 


text:
For you have been a stronghold for the poor, a stronghold for the needy in distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat for the blistering attack <n>{1QIsa a MT lack attack}</n> from the ruthless is like a rainstorm beating against a wall, 


text:
and the noise of foreigners is like the heat of the desert. Just as you subdue heat by the shade of clouds, so the victory songs of violent men will be stilled. 


text:
<n>{Celebration of the Righteous}</n> d "On this mountain, <n>{I.e. Mount Zion; cf. 24:23}</n> the Lord of the Heavenly Armies will prepare for all peoples a banquet of rich food, a banquet of well-aged wines rich food full of marrow, and refined wines of the finest <n>{1QIsa a MT lack the finest}</n> vintage 


text:
And on this mountain, <n>{I.e. Mount Zion; cf. 24:23}</n> he will swallow up the burial <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks burial}</n> shroud that enfolds all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations 


text:
he has swallowed up <n>{So 1QIsa a MT ms ; MT reads And he will swallow up ; cf. LXX Syr Theodotian 1Cor 15:54}</n> death forever! Then the Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces, and he will take away the disgrace of his people from the entire earth." for the Lord has spoken. 


text:
"And you <n>{So 1QIsa a Syriac; 4QIsa c MT read he ; LXX reads they}</n> will say at that time, <n>{Lit. say on that day}</n> «Look! It's the Lord! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack It's the Lord}</n> T his is our God! We waited for him, and he saved us. This is the Lord ! We waited for him, so let us rejoice, and we will <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and let us}</n> be glad that he has saved us." 


text:
<n>{The Misery of Moab}</n> d For the Lord's power <n>{Lit. hand}</n> will rest on this mountain, <n>{I.e. Mount Zion; cf. 24:23}</n> but the Moabites will be trodden down beneath him, just as straw is trodden down in the slime of <n>{Lit. in the water of ; so 1QIsa a MT; MT qere reads in ; LXX reads in wagons}</n> a manure pit. 


text:
They will spread out their hands in the thick of it, just as swimmers spread out their hands to swim, but the Lord will bring down their pride, together with the cleverness of their hands. 


text:
He brings down the high fortifications of your walls and lays them low; he will raze them <n>{Or reach ; so 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT read he casts them}</n> to the ground, right down to the dust. 


text:
<n>{The Song of Redeemed Judah}</n> d At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> people will sing this song <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa c MT read time, this song will be sung ; LXX reads time, they will sing that song}</n> in the land of Judah: "We have a strong city; God crafts victory, its walls and ramparts. <n>{So 4QIsa c ; 1QIsa a MT read walls and ramparts ; LXX reads wall and rampart}</n> 


text:
Open your <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read the}</n> gates, so the righteous nation that safeguards its faith may enter. 


text:
You will keep perfectly peaceful <n>{Lit. peace, peace ; so 1QIsa a MT; LXX Syr read peace}</n> the one whose mind remains focused on you, because he remains <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b LXX; 4QIsa c MT read trusts}</n> in you. 


text:
"Trust in the Lord forever, for in the Lord God <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa b reads the Lord God ; LXX reads the Lord, the Lord}</n> you have an everlasting rock. 


text:
For he has made drunk <n>{So MT 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa b 4QIsa c MT read has brought low ; LXX reads has humbled and brought down}</n> the inhabitants of the height, the lofty city. He lays it low <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads He levels it, he levels it}</n> to the ground casting it down to the dust, 


text:
by the feet of the oppressed who trample it, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads The foot tramples it}</n> by the footsteps of the needy. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads oppressed}</n> 


text:
"The path of the righteous is level; O Upright One, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa c reads they go straight ahead ; LXX lacks this line}</n> you make safe <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read smooth or you prepare}</n> the way of justice. <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c ; MT LXX read of the righteous ones}</n> 


text:
Yes, Lord , in the path of your judgments we wait; <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads we wait for you}</n> your name and your Law <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT read your renown ; cf. LXX}</n> are the <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa b reads my}</n> soul's desire. 


text:
My soul yearns for you in the night; my spirit within me searches for you. For when your judgments come upon the earth, the world's inhabitants learn righteousness. 


text:
If favor is shown to the wicked, they don't learn righteousness; even in a land of uprightness they act perversely and do not perceive the majesty of the Lord . 


text:
"Lord , your hand is lifted up, but they do not see it. And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; the Heb. lacks And}</n> let them see your zeal for your <n>{Lit. the ; so 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks your}</n> people and be put to shame yes, let the fire reserved for your enemies consume them! 


text:
Lord , you will decide <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads prepare or give ; LXX reads Lord , give}</n> peace for us, for you have indeed accomplished all our achievements for us. 


text:
O Lord our God, other lords besides you have ruled over us, but through you alone we acknowledge your name. 


text:
The dead won't live, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa a corrector MT lack and}</n> the departed spirits won't rise to that end, you punished and destroyed them, then locked away <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read wiped out}</n> all memory of them. 


text:
"But you have enlarged the nation, <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa b}</n> Lord ; you have enlarged the nation. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT ms lacks this line}</n> You have gained honor; you have extended all the borders of the land. 


text:
Lord , they <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT mss LXX mss read we; LXX reads I remembered you}</n> came to you in distress; they poured out their secret <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT read out a magical}</n> prayer when your chastenings were <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read your chastening was}</n> afflicting <n>{Lit. upon}</n> them. 


text:
Just as a pregnant woman writhes and cries out during her labor when she is about to give birth, so were we because of you, Lord . 


text:
We were pregnant, writhing in pain, but we gave birth only to wind. We have not won your <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks your}</n> victory on earth, nor have the inhabitants of the world been born." 


text:
<n>{The Resurrection of the Dead}</n> d "But your dead will live; their bodies will rise. Those who live in the dust will wake up and shout for joy! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Wake up and shout for joy , you ; LXX reads Those in the dust will rejoice, for}</n> For your dew is like the dew of dawn, and the earth will give birth to the dead. 


text:
Come, my people, enter your rooms and shut your doors <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT qere reads door}</n> behind you. Hide yourselves <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads yourself}</n> for a little while until the fury has passed by. 


text:
For see, the Lord is coming from his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their sins; the earth will reveal the blood that has been shed on it, and will no longer conceal its slain." 


text:
<n>{Israel's Deliverance}</n> d At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> with his fierce, mighty, and powerful sword, the Lord will punish the gliding serpent Leviathan the coiling serpent Leviathan and he will kill the dragon that's in the sea. 


text:
At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> "A fermenting <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read pleasant}</n> vineyard sing about it! 


text:
I, the Lord , watch over it And I water it continually. I guard it night and day so no one can harm it. 


text:
I am not angry. If only the vineyard <n>{Lit. only it}</n> could give me briers and thorns <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads thorns}</n> to battle, I would march against it, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> I would burn it all up. 


text:
Or else let it lay claim to my protection; let it make peace with me, yes, let it make peace with me." 


text:
In times to come, Jacob will take root, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> Israel will blossom, sprout shoots, and fill the whole world with fruit. 


text:
Has the Lord <n>{Lit. Has he}</n> struck them down, just as he struck down those who struck them? Or have they been killed, just as their killers were killed? 


text:
Measure by measure, <n>{Or With war cries}</n> in their exile you contended with them; with his fierce blast he removed them, as on a day when the east wind blows. 


text:
By this, then, Jacob's guilt will be atoned for, and this will be the full harvest that comes from the removal of his sin: when he makes all the altar stones like pulverized chalkstones, no Asherah <n>{Or sacred}</n> poles or incense altars will be left standing. 


text:
For the fortified city stands desolate, a settlement abandoned and forsaken like the desert; calves graze there, and there they lie down and strip bare its branches. 


text:
When its branches are dry, they are broken off, and women come and kindle fires with them, since this is a people who show no consideration. That is why the One who made them shows them no compassion; the One who created them shows them no mercy. 


text:
<n>{Assyria and Egypt Exiles Redeemed}</n> d At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> the Lord will winnow grain from the Euphrates River <n>{DSS MT lack River}</n> channel to the Wadi <n>{I.e. a seasonal stream or river that channels water during rain seasons but is dry at other times}</n> of Egypt, <n>{I.e. the southwestern-most border of ancient Philistia}</n> and you will be gathered in one by one, O people of Israel. 


text:
Furthermore, at that time, <n>{Lit. Furthermore, on that day}</n> a great trumpet will be sounded, and those who were perishing in the land of Assyria and those who had been expelled <n>{Or exiled}</n> to the land of Egypt will come and worship the Lord on his holy mountain at Jerusalem. 


text:
<n>{The Captivity of Ephraim}</n> d How terrible it will be for that arrogant garland the drunks of Ephraim! How terrible it will be for that fading flower of his glorious beauty, which sits on the heads of people bloated with food, <n>{Lit. the valley of those grown fat}</n> of people overcome with wine! 


text:
Look! The Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Lord}</n> has one who is mighty and strong, like a hailstorm and destructive tempest, like a storm of mighty, overflowing water and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> he will give rest to the land. 


text:
With hands <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; or He will throw them forcefully down to the ground ; cf. MT}</n> and feet, that proud garland <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; or 3 Underfoot that proud garland ; cf. MT}</n> those drunks of Ephraim will be trampled. 


text:
And that fading flower, his glorious beauty, which sits on the heads of people bloated with food, will be like an early fig before summer whenever someone sees it, he swallows it as soon as it's in his hand. 


text:
At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> the Lord of the Heavenly Armies will become a glorious crown, a beautiful diadem for the remnant of his people, 


text:
and a spirit of justice to the one who sits in judgment, a source of strength to those who turn back the battle at the gate. 


text:
These people also <n>{1QIsa a lacks people also ; MT lacks people}</n> stagger from wine and reel from strong drink. Priests and prophets stagger from strong drink; they're drunk from <n>{Lit. are devoured by}</n> wine; they reel from strong drink, waver when seeing visions, and stumble when rendering decisions. 


text:
For all the tables are covered in vomit and filth, with no clean <n>{1QIsa a MT lack clean}</n> space left. 


text:
<n>{Misuse of God's Word}</n> d To whom will he teach knowledge, and to whom will he explain the message? To children just weaned from milk? To those just taken from the breast? 


text:
For it is: "Do this and do that, do this and do that, Line upon line, line upon line, a little here, a little there." 


text:
Very well, then, through the mouths of foreigners <n>{Or through foreign lips}</n> and foreign languages the Lord will speak to this people 


text:
to whom he said, "This is the resting place, so give rest to the weary"'and, "This is the place of repose" but they would not listen. 


text:
So, then, the message from the Lord to them will become: "Do this and do that, do this and do that, line upon line, line upon line, a little here, a little there," so that they will go, but fall backward, and be injured, snared, and captured. 


text:
<n>{God's Precious Cornerstone}</n> d "Therefore hear <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT LXX read hear (pl.)}</n> the message from the Lord , you scoffers who rule this people that are in Jerusalem. 


text:
Because you said: «We have entered into a covenant with death, and we have an agreement with Sheol, <n>{I.e. the place where the dead dwell in the afterlife}</n> so when the overwhelming scourge makes its choice, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read sweeps by}</n> it cannot reach us, since we have made lies our refuge and have concealed ourselves inside falsehood'


text:
therefore this is what the Lord God <n>{So 1QIsa a corrector}</n> says: "Look! I am laying <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT reads I have laid}</n> a foundation stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT mss LXX lack sure}</n> foundation: Whoever believes firmly will not act hastily. 


text:
And I will make justice the measuring line, and righteousness the plumb line; hail will sweep away your refuge of lies, and floods <n>{Lit. waters}</n> will overflow your hiding place. 


text:
"Then your covenant with death will be annulled, and your agreement with Sheol <n>{I.e. the place where the dead dwell in the afterlife}</n> will not stand; when the overwhelming scourge sweeps by, you will be trampled by it. 


text:
As often as it sweeps through, it will carry you away, for it will sweep by morning after morning in the day; but understanding this message will bring sheer terror at night, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads by day and by night; and there will be sheer terror.}</n> 


text:
because the bed is too short to stretch out on, and its blankets too narrow to wrap around oneself! 


text:
<n>{God is on Mount Perazim}</n> d For the Lord will stand upon <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads as}</n> Mount Perazim, <n>{I.e. a mountain near Jerusalem, perhaps the Mount of Olives; cf. 2Sam 6:8}</n> he will rouse himself in <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads as}</n> the Valley of Gibeon; to carry out his work his strange deed, and to perform his task his alien task! 


text:
But as for you, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads So now}</n> don't start mocking, or your chains will become tighter; for I have heard from the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss LXX Syr; MT reads the Lord God}</n> of the Heavenly Armies about destruction, and it is decreed against the whole land. 


text:
<n>{The God who Plows and Harvests}</n> d "Pay attention! Listen to what I have to say; Pay attention, and hear my speech. 


text:
Does he who plows for sowing plow all the time? Does he keep on breaking up and harrowing his field? 


text:
When he has leveled its surface, he scatters caraway <n>{Or scatters black cumin}</n> and sows cumin, doesn't he? He plants wheat in rows, barley in its designated place, and feed for livestock <n>{Lit. and spelt ; i.e. a grass grown and used as fodder}</n> around its borders, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads its border ; LXX reads your borders}</n> doesn't he? 


text:
His God instructs him regarding the correct way, directing him how to plant. <n>{DSS MT lack how to plant}</n> 


text:
For caraway is not threshed with a sharp sledge, nor is a cart wheel rolled over cumin. Instead, caraway is winnowed with a stick, and cumin with a rod. 


text:
It <n>{I.e. grain ; so 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa k reads And it}</n> must be ground; <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa k MT read must be ground for bread}</n> one cannot keep threshing it forever. Even if he drives his cart <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a corrector MT read the wheel of his cart}</n> and horses over it, he cannot crush it. 


text:
This insight also comes from the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, who is distinguished <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads wonderful}</n> in practical advice and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> magnificent in sound wisdom." 


text:
<n>{Judgment is Coming to Jerusalem}</n> d "How terrible it will be for you, Aruel, Aruel, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Ariel, Ariel ; i.e. a nickname assigned by the prophet for Jerusalem}</n> the city where David encamped! Year after year, let your festivals run their cycle. 


text:
Then I'll besiege Aruel, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Ariel, Ariel ; i.e. an allusion to Jerusalem}</n> and there will be sorrow and mourning; she will become to me like an altar fireplace. <n>{Lit. an Ariel ; i.e. perhaps a pun on the name Aruel}</n> 


text:
Then I'll encamp against you like David, <n>{So 4QIsa k MT mss LXX; 1QIsa a MT read you on all sides}</n> and I'll lay siege to you with towers, raise siege works against you, 


text:
and you will be brought down. You will speak from the ground, and your speech will mumble from the dust. Your voice will come ghostlike from the ground, and your speech will whisper from the dust. 


text:
"But the hordes of your enemies <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads foreigners ; LXX reads the ungodly}</n> will become like fine dust, and the hordes of tyrants like flying chaff. Then suddenly, in an instant, 


text:
you will be visited by the Lord of the Heavenly Armies with thunder, an earthquake, and great noise, with a windstorm, a tempest, and flames from a devouring fire. 


text:
Then the hordes of all the nations that fight against Aruel, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Ariel, Ariel ; i.e. an allusion to Jerusalem}</n> all that attack her and her fortification <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads her mountain stronghold ; LXX reads Jerusalem}</n> and besiege her, will become like a dream, with its visions in the night 


text:
as when a hungry man dreams he eats, but wakes up still hungry; or when a thirsty man dreams he drinks, but wakes up faint, with his thirst unquenched. So will it be with the hordes of all the nations that fight against Mount Zion. 


text:
<n>{Blind to God's Words}</n> d "Act stupid! Be astonished! Act blind, and be blind! Be drunk, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads They have become drunk}</n> but not from <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks from}</n> wine; stagger around, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads They stagger around}</n> but not from strong drink. 


text:
For the Lord has poured out upon you a spirit of deep sleep he has closed your eyes, you prophets, he has covered your heads, you seers!" 


text:
"And this entire vision has become for you like the words of a sealed book. When people give it to someone who can read, and say, «Read this, please,'he answers, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read he will answer}</n> «I cannot, because it is sealed.'


text:
Or when they give the book <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read the book will be given}</n> to someone who cannot read, and say, «Read this, please,'he answers, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read he will answer}</n> «I don't know how to read.»" 


text:
<n>{A Rebuke of Hypocritical Worship}</n> d Then the Lord said: "Because these people draw near with their mouths and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, worship of me <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Their worship of me}</n> has become merely like <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack like}</n> rules taught by human beings. 


text:
Therefore, watch out! "As for me, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks as for me}</n> I will once again do amazing things with this people, wonder upon wonder. The wisdom of their wise men will perish, and the insights <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read insight}</n> of their discerning men will stay hidden." 


text:
<n>{A Rebuke to the Deceptive}</n> d "How terrible it will be for you who go to great depths to hide your plans from the Lord , you whose deeds have been <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read deeds are (or will be )}</n> done <n>{DSS MT lack done}</n> in the dark, and who say, «Who can see us? Who has recognized <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read recognizes}</n> us? '


text:
He has turned the tables on you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads You turn things upside down!}</n> as if the potter were thought to be like heat. <n>{I.e. the fire in a kiln; so 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read clay}</n> Can what is made say of the one who made it, «He did not make me? 'Or can what is formed say of the ones <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read one}</n> who formed it, «He has no skill? '


text:
"In a very little while, will not Lebanon be turned into a garden of fruit, <n>{Lit. into Carmel}</n> and the garden of fruit <n>{Lit. and Carmel}</n> seem like a forest? 


text:
On that day the deaf will hear the words of a scroll, and out of gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind will see. 


text:
The humble will again experience joy in the Lord , and the poorest people will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. 


text:
For the ruthless will vanish, and mockers will disappear, and all who have an eye for evil will be cut down 


text:
those who make a person appear to be the offender in a lawsuit, who set a trap for someone who is making his defense in court, <n>{Lit. in the gate}</n> and push aside the innocent with specious arguments. 


text:
"Therefore, this is what the Lord , who redeemed Abraham, says concerning the house of Jacob: «No longer will Jacob be ashamed; no longer will his face grow pale. 


text:
For when he sees in his midst his children, the work of my hands, they will keep my name holy; they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob and stand in awe of the God of Israel. 


text:
Moreover, those who go astray in spirit will gain <n>{Lit. discover}</n> understanding, and those who complain will accept instruction.»" 


text:
<n>{Foolish Trust in Egypt}</n> d "Oh, you stubborn children," declares the Lord , "who carry out plans but they are not mine, and who make alliances but not by my Spirit, piling sin upon sin. 


text:
They set out to go down to Egypt, without asking my advice; taking refuge in Pharaoh's protection, and seeking shelter in Egypt's shadow. 


text:
But Pharaoh's protection will become your shame, and sheltering in Egypt's shadow your longing. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read disgrace}</n> 


text:
And it will turn out that <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read For even though}</n> his officials are at Zoan, and his envoys will reach Hanes. 


text:
There is only loathsome destruction <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Everyone comes to shame}</n> through a people that cannot benefit them, who bring neither help nor profit, but only shame and disgrace." 


text:
<n>{The Animals of the Negev}</n> d An oracle about the animals of the Negev: <n>{I.e. southern regions of the Sinai peninsula; cf. Josh 10:40}</n> "Through a land of trouble, dryness, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack dryness ; cf. Isa 41:18}</n> and distress, of lionesses and roaring lions, where there is no water, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read from whence come}</n> a land of vipers and darting snakes, he carries <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read they carry}</n> their riches on donkeys'backs, and their treasures on the humps of camels, to a nation that cannot benefit them, 


text:
to Egypt, which gives help that is worthless and useless. Therefore I call her, «Rahab, <n>{The Heb. word Rahab means The One who Storms ; i.e. Egypt; cf. Isa 51:9; Ps 87:4}</n> who just sits still.»" 


text:
<n>{The Illusions of False Prophecy}</n> d "Go now, and write it down <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa c LXX read write down}</n> on a tablet in their presence, inscribing it in a book, so that for times to come it may be an everlasting witness. 


text:
For they are a rebellious people, deceitful children, children unwilling to hear the Lord's instruction. 


text:
They say to the seers, «Don't see visions,'and to the prophets, «Don't give us visions of what is right! Instead, tell us welcome things, prophesy illusions, 


text:
get out of the way, turn aside from the path, and stop confronting us with the Holy One of Israel." <n>{Lit. bring to an end the Holy One from before us .}</n> 


text:
<n>{Rejecting God's Message}</n> d Therefore, this is what the Holy One of Israel says: "Because you reject this message, and put your trust in oppression and enjoy it, <n>{Apparent meaning 1QIsa a ; MT reads and are perverse}</n> and since you rely on it, 


text:
therefore, for you this sin will become like a breach in a high wall that is about to collapse, bulging out, and whose crash comes suddenly in an instant. 


text:
Its breaking will be like when potters'vessels are broken, shattered so ruthlessly <n>{Lit. broken they do not take pity ; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads broken he does not take pity}</n> that among its fragments not even a broken sliver will be found for taking fire from a hearth or scooping water out of a cistern." 


text:
For this is what the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a}</n> God , <n>{So 1QIsa a corrector}</n> the Holy One of Israel, says: "In repentance and rest you will be saved; in staying calm and trusting will be your strength. But you refused. 


text:
Instead, you said, «No! We'll escape on horses!'Therefore, you'll flee away. And you said, «We'll ride off on swift steeds!'Therefore your pursuers will be swift. 


text:
A thousand will flee at the threat of one; and run away, pursued by <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read away at the threat of}</n> five, until you are left like a flagpole on a mountaintop, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads the mountaintop}</n> like a banner on a hill." 


text:
<n>{Restoration is Promised to Israel}</n> d "Nevertheless, the Lord will wait so he can be gracious to you; and thus he will rise up to show you mercy. For the Lord is a God of justice. How blessed are all those who wait for him." 


text:
Indeed, you people who live in Zion and in Jerusalem, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; MT reads at Jerusalem}</n> you <n>{So 1QIsa a (pl.); MT (sing.)}</n> will weep no more. How gracious the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read he}</n> will be to you at the sound of your cry! As soon as he hears it, he will answer you. 


text:
And although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks the correct Heb. construct}</n> of affliction, your teachers won't hide themselves <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads himself}</n> anymore, but your own eyes will see your teachers. 


text:
And whether you turn to the right or turn to the left, your ears will hear a message behind you: "This is the way, walk in it." 


text:
Then you will defile your carved idols that are overlaid with silver and your images plated with gold. You'll throw them away like disgusting objects <n>{Lit. like menstrual rags}</n> and say to them, "Away with you!" 


text:
He will also provide rain for your seed that you sow in the ground, and the food that comes from the ground will be <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads and it will be}</n> rich and abundant. At that time, <n>{Lit. On that day}</n> your cattle will graze in broad meadows, 


text:
and oxen and donkeys that work the ground will eat seasoned <n>{Lit. salted}</n> fodder that workers will winnow with shovels and forks. 


text:
And on every lofty mountain and every high hill there will be brooks and canals <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads streams}</n> running with water on the day of the great slaughter, when the towers fall. 


text:
Moreover, the light of the moon will be like the light of the sun, and the sun's light will be seven times brighter, like the light of seven full days, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks like the light of seven full days}</n> when the Lord binds up the bruises of his people and heals the wounds inflicted by his blow. 


text:
See, the name of the Lord comes from far away, burning with his anger, and in thick rising smoke; his lips are full of fury, and his tongue is like a devouring fire. 


text:
His breath is like an overflowing torrent, and it rises right up to the neck, to shake <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads to sift ; LXX reads to confuse}</n> the nations in the sieve of destruction, and to place in the jaws of the peoples a bit that leads them astray. 


text:
You will have songs as on nights when people celebrate a holy festival, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads one celebrates a holy festival}</n> and gladness of heart, as when they set out with flutes to go to the Lord's mountain, to the Rock of Israel. 


text:
<n>{God's Judgment on Assyria}</n> d And the Lord will make heard yes, he will make heard <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read heard only once}</n> his majestic voice, and make his arm <n>{I.e. the Messiah}</n> seen descending in raging anger and in a flame of consuming fire, with a cloudburst, thunderstorm and hailstones. 


text:
Indeed, the Assyrians will be shattered at the Lord's voice, when he strikes them with his scepter. 


text:
And every stroke of his punishing rod <n>{So MT mss ; 1QIsa a reads the rod of his foundation ; MT reads the rod of foundation}</n> that the Lord brings down on them will be to the sound of tambourines and harps, as he fights against her <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT qere, mss read against them}</n> in battle with a brandished arm. 


text:
For the Fire Pit <n>{Lit. the Topheth ; i.e. a fire pit near Jerusalem where the Canaanite deity Molech was worshipped}</n> has long been prepared; truly it is for the king; it will indeed be made ready. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads it is made ready for the king ; cf. LXX}</n> And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks And}</n> its pyre will be deep and wide, with abundant fire and wood. Like a stream of burning sulfur, the breath of the Lord will set it ablaze. 


text:
<n>{Only the Lord can Help}</n> d "How terrible it will be for those who go down to <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks to}</n> Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the chariot, because there are so many, and in charioteers, <n>{Or horsemen}</n> because they are so strong but do not look to <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read upon}</n> the Holy One of Israel or seek the Lord ! 


text:
Yet he is also wise and can bring disaster; he does not take back his words, but will rise up against the house of those who practice evil and against anyone who assists people who work iniquity. 


text:
The Egyptians are men, not God, and their horses are physical, <n>{Or flesh}</n> not spirit. When the Lord stretches out his hand, anyone who assists will stumble, and the one who is helped will fall; and they will all perish together." 


text:
<n>{The Lord will Defend Jerusalem}</n> d For this is what the Lord told me: "Just as a lion or a young lion growls over his objects of prey, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read his prey (sing.)}</n> even when a whole band of shepherds is called out against it, it is not alarmed at their shouting or disturbed by their clamor so the Lord of the Heavenly Armies will come down to do battle on Mount Zion and on its hill. 


text:
Like birds hovering overhead, so the Lord of the Heavenly Armies will protect Jerusalem; he will shield and deliver it; and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> he will pass over <n>{I.e. as the Angel of Death passed over the Israelis; cf. Exod 12:13, 23, 27}</n> and bring it to safety. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads rescue it}</n> 


text:
Turn back to him, yes to him whom <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads back to him whom}</n> your people <n>{Lit. whom they}</n> have so greatly betrayed, you people of Israel. 


text:
For at that time, <n>{Lit. on that day}</n> everyone will throw away their <n>{Lit. his}</n> idols of silver and their <n>{Lit. his}</n> idols of gold that your hands have sinfully made for yourselves. 


text:
"Then Assyria will fall by a sword that is not from human beings only <n>{Lit. not of man}</n> a sword not wielded by mortal beings will devour them. They will flee from the sword, and their young men will be put to forced labor. 


text:
Their stronghold will vanish by reason of terror, and their commanders will be filled with alarm because of the battle standard," declares the Lord , whose fire is in Zion and whose furnace is in Jerusalem. 


text:
<n>{The Government of Justice}</n> d "Look, a king will reign in righteousness, and rulers will rule with justice. 


text:
Each one will be like a shelter from the wind and a hiding place from <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads of}</n> storms, like streams of water in the desert, in <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads like}</n> the shadow of a great rock in an exhausted <n>{Or thirsty}</n> land. 


text:
Then the eyes of those who can see won't turn away, and the ears of those who can hear will listen. 


text:
The hearts of reckless people will understand sound judgment, and the tongues of those who stammer will be ready to speak clearly. 


text:
People will no longer call a fool <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads No longer will a fool will be called}</n> noble, nor will a bad person be declared honorable. 


text:
For fools utter contempt, and their minds plot <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads work}</n> wrong things: practicing ungodliness, spreading lies about the Lord , leaving the pangs of hungry people unsatisfied, and depriving thirsty people of drink. 


text:
Furthermore, the crimes of bad people are evil; and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> they devise wicked schemes, destroying the poor <n>{1QIsa a and MT use two different synonyms}</n> with lying words, even when needy people plead <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; MT reads a needy one pleads}</n> a just cause. 


text:
<n>{A Rebuke for Complacent Women}</n> d "As for you ladies of leisure Get up and listen to my voice! You daughters who feel so complacent hear what I have to say! 


text:
In little more than a year, you complacent women will shudder; for the grape harvest will fail, and the fruit harvest will not <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads without}</n> come. 


text:
So tremble, you ladies of leisure! Shudder, you daughters who feel so complacent! Strip down and make yourselves naked down to the waist! <n>{Lit. the loins ; so 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads to loins}</n> Then wrap yourself in <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack yourself in}</n> sackcloth and beat your breasts. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and beat your breasts}</n> 


text:
For people will be beating their breasts in mourning <n>{1QIsa a MT lack mourning}</n> over the pleasant fields, over the fruitful vines, 


text:
and over the land of my people overgrown with thorns and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> briers yes, over all the houses of merriment and over this city of revelry. 


text:
"For the palace will be abandoned, the noisy city deserted; the citadel and watchtower will become barren wastes forever, the delight of wild donkeys, and a pasture for <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads of ; cf. LXX}</n> flocks, 


text:
until the Spirit from on high is poured upon us, and the desert becomes a fertile field, and the fertile field seems like a forest." 


text:
<n>{Restoration of God's Reign}</n> d "Then justice will live in the wilderness, and righteousness will dwell in the fertile field. 


text:
The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever. 


text:
But it will hail when the forest comes down, and the wood <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads the city ; LXX lacks the wood}</n> will be leveled completely. 


text:
How happy you will be, sowing your seed beside every stream, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> letting your <n>{Lit. letting the feet of your}</n> cattle and donkeys range freely!" 


text:
<n>{God's Judgment}</n> d "How terrible it will be for you, destroyer, you who have not been destroyed yourself! And how terrible it will be for you, traitor, one whom <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT mss read you whom}</n> people have not betrayed! When you have sunk so low in <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads stopped}</n> destroying others, you will be destroyed; and when you have finished betraying, they will betray you." 


text:
<n>{A Prayer for Grace}</n> d "Lord , be gracious to us; we long for you; and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> be our strength <n>{Lit. arm}</n> every morning, our salvation in times of trouble. 


text:
At the thunder of your voice, the peoples flee; at your silence, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads when you rise up ; LXX reads from fear of you}</n> the nations scatter. 


text:
Your plunder is gathered as when grasshoppers gather; just like <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks just like}</n> locusts pounce, people have pounced <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads people pounce}</n> on it. 


text:
He will be a sure foundation for your times, abundance and salvation, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads of salvation}</n> wisdom and knowledge the fear of the Lord is Zion's treasure." 


text:
<n>{Israel's Unenviable Plight}</n> d "Listen! Their brave men cry out in the streets; the envoys of peace weep bitterly. 


text:
The highways are deserted; travelers have quit the road. The enemy <n>{Lit. He}</n> has broken treaties; he despises their witnesses, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads cities}</n> and respects no one. 


text:
The land mourns and wastes away; Lebanon feels ashamed and withers. Sharon is like a desert; Bashan <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and Bashan}</n> and Carmel shake off their leaves." 


text:
<n>{God is Exalted}</n> d "Now I'll rise up," the Lord has said, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read says the Lord}</n> "now I'll exalt myself; now I'll be lifted up. 


text:
"Those who are far away have heard <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; MT reads You who are far away, hear}</n> what I've done; and those that are near have acknowledged <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads you that are near, acknowledge}</n> my power. 


text:
The sinners in Zion are terrified; trembling grips the godless: "Who among us can live with the consuming fire? Who among us can live with everlasting flames?" 


text:
The one who walks righteously and has spoken <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and who speaks}</n> sincere words, who rejects gain from extortion and waves his hand, rejecting bribes, who blocks his ears from hearing plots of murder and shuts his eyes against seeing evil 


text:
this is the one who will live on the heights; his refuge will be a mountain fortress. His food will be supplied, and his water will be guaranteed. 


text:
Your mind will ponder at that time of terror: «Where is the king's accountant? Where is the one who weighed the revenue? Where is the officer who supervises <n>{Lit. counts}</n> the towers? '


text:
No longer will you <n>{So 1QIsa a (pl.); MT (sing.)}</n> see those arrogant people, those people with their obscure speech you cannot comprehend, stammering in a language you cannot understand. 


text:
"Look at Zion, city of our festivals! <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss ; MT reads our festival}</n> Your eyes will see Jerusalem, an undisturbed abode, an immovable tent; its stakes will never be pulled up, nor will any of its ropes be broken. 


text:
But there the Lord in majesty will be for us our source <n>{Lit. us a place}</n> of broad rivers and streams, where no galley with oars can go, where no stately ship can sail. 


text:
For the Lord is our judge, and the Lord is our lawgiver; and the Lord is our king, and it is he who will save us. 


text:
"Your rigging hangs loose; it cannot reliably <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads firmly}</n> hold the mast in its place, and the sail cannot spread out. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads they cannot spread the sail}</n> Then an abundance of spoils will be divided even the lame will carry off plunder. 


text:
And no one living there will say, «I am ill.'The people living there will have their sins forgiven." 


text:
<n>{Judgment of the Nations}</n> d "Come near, you nations, to listen, and pay attention, you peoples! Let the earth hear, and all that fills it; the world, and all that comes out of it. 


text:
For the Lord is angry against all the nations, and furious against all their armies. He has doomed them to destruction, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> given them up to be slaughtered. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read for slaughter}</n> 


text:
Their slain <n>{Or mortally wounded}</n> will be thrown out; and as for their dead bodies their stench will ascend; the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks the}</n> mountains will be soaked with their blood. 


text:
The valleys will be split, all the stars <n>{Lit. host}</n> in the heavens will fall down, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads All the stars of the heavens will rot away ; LXX lacks this line}</n> and the skies will be rolled up like a scroll. All their starry host will fade away like leaves withering on a vine, or fruit withering on a fig tree. 


text:
For my sword will be seen <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads has drunk its fill ; cf. LXX}</n> in the heavens. Look! It descends in judgment on Edom, on the people I have doomed to destruction. 


text:
The Lord has a sword bathed in blood; it's covered <n>{Or satiated}</n> with fat, with the blood of lambs and goats, and with fat from the kidneys of rams." <n>{Judgment on Bozrah and Edom}</n> d"For the Lord holds a sacrifice in Bozrah, and a great slaughter in the land of Edom. 


text:
Wild oxen will fall together with them young steers and mighty bulls. Their land will be drenched <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads drench}</n> with blood, and their soil will be swollen with fat. 


text:
Edom's <n>{Lit. Its}</n> streams will be turned into burning sulfur, and its dust into sulfur; its land will become pitch. 


text:
It will burn night and day, and will never be extinguished. Its smoke will rise from generation to generation, and it will lie desolate forever and ever. And no one will pass through it. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads blazing pitch . 10 Night and day it will not be extinguished. Its smoke will go up forever; from generation to generation it will lie desolate. No one will ever pass through it again . LXX lacks the last line}</n> 


text:
"But hawks and hedgehogs will possess it; owls and ravens will nest in it. God <n>{Lit. He}</n> will stretch out over it a measuring line, and chaos, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads a measuring line of chaos}</n> and plumb lines of emptiness, and its nobles. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads And plumb lines of emptiness are 12 its nobles; LXX reads and satyrs will live in it . 12 Its nobles}</n> 


text:
Thorns will grow over its palaces, nettles and brambles its fortresses. It will become a haunt for jackals, a home for ostriches. 


text:
And desert creatures will meet with hyenas, and goat-demons will call out to each other. There also Liliths <n>{I.e. desert demons of the night}</n> will settle, and find for themselves <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads The Lilith will settle, and find for itself}</n> a resting place. 


text:
Owls <n>{Or tree-snakes ; LXX reads Hedgehogs}</n> will nest there, lay eggs, hatch them, and care for their young under the shadow of their wings; <n>{Lit. in her shadow}</n> yes <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks yes}</n> indeed, vultures will gather there, each one with its mate." 


text:
<n>{The Certainty of God's Deliverance}</n> d "Study and read from the book of the Lord : And not one <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Not one of them}</n> will be missing, each will not long for its mate. <n>{So MT; 1QIsa a reads each its mate}</n> For it is the mouth of the Lord that has issued the order, and it is his Spirit that has gathered them. 


text:
It is he who has allotted their portions, <n>{Lit. has cast the lot for them}</n> and his hand has divided it for them with a measuring line forever. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks forever}</n> They will possess it forever; <n>{So MT; 1QIsa a lacks Forever}</n> from generation to generation they will live in it." <n>{So MT; 1QIsa a corrector reads will they possess live in it .}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Future of Israel's Land}</n> d "The desert and the dry land will rejoice; the desert will celebrate and blossom. Like crocuses, 


text:
it will burst into bloom, and rejoice with gladness and shouts of joy. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the glory of the Lord , the splendor of our God. <n>{So MT LXX 1QIsa a corrector; 1QIsa a lacks vss. 1-2}</n> 


text:
Say to those with anxious hearts, «Be strong, do not be afraid! Here is your God he will bring <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads he will come}</n> vengeance, he will bring <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read he will come}</n> divine retribution, and he will save you.'


text:
then the lame will leap like deer, and the tongues of speechless people will sing for joy. Yes, waters will gush forth in the wilderness, and streams will run <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack will run}</n> through the desert; 


text:
the burning sands will become a pool, and the thirsty ground fountains of water. In the haunts of jackals there will be a verdant resting place with <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads is her resting place; the grass will become}</n> reeds and rushes." 


text:
<n>{God's Holy Highway}</n> d "A highway will be there yes, there <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack yes, there}</n> and people will call it <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read it will be called}</n> «The Holy Way'. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads Way, yes, Way}</n> As for unclean people, they will not journey on it, but it will be for whomever <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads but it will be for the one ; cf. LXX}</n> is traveling on that Way not even fools will get lost. 


text:
No lions will be there no <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack no}</n> nor will any ferocious beasts get up on it, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> they will not be found there. "But the redeemed will walk there, 


text:
and the Lord» s ransomed ones will return and enter Zion with singing. Everlasting joy will rest upon their heads, gladness and joy will overtake them, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a corrector lacks them ; MT reads they will attain gladness and joy}</n> and sorrow and mourning will flee away." 


text:
<n>{Sennacherib Attacks}</n> d In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah, <n>{The Heb. name Hezekiah is usu. spelled Hizqiyah in 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT spell the name Hizqiyahu .}</n> King Sennacherib of Assyria attacked all the fortified cities of Judah and captured them. 


text:
Then the king of Assyria sent his field commander, <n>{Or sent Rab-shakeh}</n> along with a very <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack very}</n> large army, from Lachish to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem. When the field commander stopped at the aqueduct at the Upper Pool on the road to Laundryman's Field, 


text:
Hilkiah's son Eliakim, who was in charge of the palace, Shebna the secretary, and Asaph's son Joah, the recorder, went out to him. 


text:
The field commander told them: "Tell Hezekiah, king of Judah, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a corrector deleted king of Judah ; MT LXX lack king of Judah}</n> «This is what the mighty king, the king of Assyria, has to say: What is this "guarantee" that makes you yourself <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack yourself}</n> rely on it? <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack on it}</n> 


text:
Do you really think that guarantees alone can withstand <n>{Lit. that words alone equal}</n> strategy and military strength? On whom are you now depending, that you're rebelling against me? 


text:
Take note: you're relying on Egypt, that splintered reed of a staff, which pierces the palm of anyone who leans on it. This is what Pharaoh king of Egypt is like to everybody who depends on him! 


text:
But if you all <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads you (sing.)}</n> say to me, "We are depending on the Lord our God" isn't he the one whose high places and altars Hezekiah removed, while he kept on telling Judah and Jerusalem, «You are to worship in front of this altar in <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks while he kept on telling Judah and Jerusalem, «You are to worship in front of this altar in Jerusalem'}</n> Jerusalem'? <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a corrector deleted in Jerusalem ; the Heb. lacks in Jerusalem}</n> 


text:
Come now, all of you, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads you (sing.)}</n> make a bet with my master, the king of Assyria: I will give you two thousand horses, if you can furnish riders for them! 


text:
How, then, can you repulse even one officer from <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads one of}</n> the least of my master's officials, when you are depending for yourselves <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads yourself}</n> on Egypt for chariots and horsemen? 


text:
One other thing: have I really marched against this country to destroy it apart from the Lord's direction? <n>{1QIsa a MT lack «s direction}</n> The Lord himself ordered me, «March against this country to <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and}</n> destroy it.»" <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks The Lord himself ordered me, «March against this country to destroy it.'}</n> 


text:
Then Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah replied to him, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads to the field commander}</n> "Please speak with <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads to}</n> your servants with us <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack with us}</n> in Aramaic, since we understand it. Don't speak to us in Hebrew <n>{Lit. in these words ; s o 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read in the Judean language}</n> where the people sitting on <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks sitting ; cf. LXX}</n> the wall can hear." 


text:
But the field commander asked, "Was it only to all of you and to your <n>{So 1QIsa a (pl.); MT reads your (sing.) master and to you (sing.)}</n> master that my master sent me to speak these things? Wasn't it also to the men sitting on the wall who, like you, will have to eat their own excrement and drink their own urine?" 


text:
Then the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks the}</n> commander stood up and shouted out loud in Hebrew: <n>{Or the Judean language}</n> "Hear the words of the great king, the king of Assyria! 


text:
This is what the king of Assyria <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack of Assyria}</n> says: «Don't let Hezekiah deceive you for he cannot save you! 


text:
Don't let Hezekiah persuade you to rely on the Lord when he says, "The Lord will really deliver <n>{Or save}</n> us!" and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> "This city will never be handed over to the king of Assyria!" 


text:
Don't listen to Hezekiah, because this is what the king of Assyria says: «Make your peace with me and come out to me. Then everyone will eat from his own vine and from his own fig tree, and everyone will drink water from his own cistern, 


text:
until I come and take you away to a land like your own land to <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks to}</n> a land of grain and new wine, a land of bread and vineyards.'


text:
Be careful not to let Hezekiah mislead you when he says, "The Lord will save us." Has any god of any nation ever delivered <n>{Or saved}</n> his country from the <n>{Lit. the hand of the}</n> king of Assyria? 


text:
Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim? Have they saved Samaria from me? <n>{Lit. from my hand}</n> 


text:
Who among all the gods of these countries has delivered <n>{Or saved}</n> their land from me? <n>{Lit. from my hand}</n> How then can the Lord deliver <n>{Or saved}</n> Jerusalem from me?»" <n>{Lit. from my hand}</n> 


text:
But the people remained silent and didn't respond to him with so much as a single word, because the king had commanded, "Don't answer him." 


text:
Then Hilkiah's son Eliakim, who was in charge of the palace, Shebna the secretary, and Asaph's son Joah, the recorder, approached Hezekiah with their clothes torn, <n>{I.e. as a symbol of pending disaster}</n> and let him know what the field commander had said. 


text:
<n>{Hezekiah Seeks Isaiah's Counsel}</n> d As soon as Hezekiah the king <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read the king Hezekiah}</n> heard this, he tore his clothes, dressed himself in sackcloth, and went into the Lord's Temple. 


text:
Then he sent Eliakim, who was in charge of the palace, Shebna the secretary, and the senior priests, all wearing sackcloth, to Amoz's son, the prophet Isaiah. 


text:
"Here is what Hezekiah says," they told him. "This day is a day of trouble, rebuke, and disgrace, as when children come to the point of birth and there is no energy to deliver them. 


text:
Perhaps the Lord your God will hear the words of the field commander, whom his master, the king of Assyria, sent to mock the living God, and perhaps he will rebuke the words that the Lord your God has heard. So lift up a prayer for the remnant that still survives in this city." <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack in this city}</n> 


text:
<n>{Isaiah Responds to Hezekiah}</n> d "Here is what to tell your master," Isaiah told them. "This is what the Lord says: «Don't be afraid of the words you've heard those words with which the underlings of the king of Assyria have insulted me. 


text:
Watch this! I'm going to place an attitude <n>{Or to put a spirit}</n> within him, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read put a spirit in him}</n> so that when he hears a certain report, he'll return to his own country. Then I'll have him cut down by the sword in his own land." <n>{37:5-7 So MT LXX 1QIsa a corrector; 1QIsa a lacks vss. 5-7}</n> 


text:
<n>{Sennacherib Retreats}</n> d So the field commander returned and found the king of Assyria fighting against Libnah, since he had heard that the king of Assyria <n>{Lit. that he}</n> had left Lachish. 


text:
Now King Sennacherib <n>{Lit. Now he}</n> had received this report concerning King Tirhakah of Cush: "He has marched out to fight against you." When he heard it, he returned and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; cf. 2Kgs 19:9 MT; the Heb. lacks returned and}</n> sent messengers to Hezekiah: 


text:
"Say this to Hezekiah king of Judah: «Don't let your God on whom you depend deceive you when he says, "Jerusalem will not be handed over to the king of Assyria." 


text:
Surely you have heard what the kings of Assyria have done to all countries, dooming them to destruction. So do you think you will be saved? 


text:
Did the gods of the nations that were destroyed by my ancestors save them the nations of Gozan, Haran, Rezeph, and the people of Eden, who were in Tel-assar? 


text:
Where is the king of Hamath, the king of Arpad, the king of the city of Sepharvaim, or of Hena, or of Ivvah, or of Samaria?»" <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack or of Samaria}</n> 


text:
<n>{Hezekiah Prays}</n> d Hezekiah received the letters from the messengers, and read them. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read it}</n> Then he <n>{Lit. Hezekiah}</n> went up to the Lord's Temple and spread the letters <n>{Lit. it}</n> in front of the Lord . 


text:
"O Lord of the Heavenly Armies, God of Israel, enthroned above the cherubim, you alone are the God of all the kingdoms of the earth. You made heaven and earth. 


text:
Extend your ear, Lord , and listen! Open your eyes, Lord , and look! Listen to all the words Sennacherib has sent to mock the living God. 


text:
It is true, Lord , that Assyrian kings have devastated all these countries, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads countries and their land ; some MT mss read nations and their land}</n> 


text:
and have thrown their gods into the fire but they are not gods, but rather the products <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads work}</n> of human hands, mere wood and stone. So the Assyrians <n>{Lit. So they}</n> destroyed them. 


text:
So now, Lord our God, save us from his oppressive <n>{1QIsa a LXX MT lack oppressive}</n> hand, so that all kingdoms on earth may know that you alone, O Lord, are God." <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads alone are Lord ; LXX reads alone are God}</n> 


text:
<n>{God's Answer}</n> d Then Amoz's son Isaiah sent this message to Hezekiah: "This is what the Lord , the God of Israel, says, to whom you prayed <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads because you prayed to me ; cf. LXX}</n> concerning Sennacherib king of Assyria. 


text:
This is the message that the Lord has spoken in opposition to him: «The Virgin Daughter of Zion despises and mocks you; the Daughter of Jerusalem she tosses her head behind you as you flee. 


text:
Whom have you insulted and reviled? Against whom have you raised your voice and lifted your eyes in pride? Against the Holy One of Israel! 


text:
By your messengers <n>{Lit. servants}</n> you have insulted the Lord , and you have said, "With my many chariots I have climbed the heights of mountains, the utmost heights of Lebanon. I cut down its tallest cedars, the choicest of its pines; I reached its remotest heights, the most verdant of its forests. 


text:
I myself dug wells <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads dug ; LXX reads appointed}</n> and drank foreign <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack foreign}</n> waters; with the soles of my feet I dried up all the streams of Egypt." 


text:
«Didn't you hear how in the distant past I decided to do it, how <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and how}</n> I planned from days of old? Now I've made it happen that fortified cities become devastated, besieged heaps. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads you should make fortified cities crash into ruined heaps}</n> 


text:
Their inhabitants are devoid of power, and are terrified and put to shame. They've become like plants in the field, like <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and like}</n> green shoots, like grass on rooftops, scorched by the east wind. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and a field before the standing grain}</n> 


text:
«I know when you rise up and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack when you rise up and}</n> when you sit down, your comings and goings and how you've become enraged at me. 


text:
Your insolence <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads because your raging against me and your insolence ; cf. LXX}</n> has reached my ears, so I'll put my hook in your nose and my bit in your mouth, <n>{Lit. lips ; so 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads lip}</n> and I'll make you turn back on the road by which you came. 


text:
"And this will be your sign, Hezekiah: <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks Hezekiah}</n> Eat this year what grows on its own, and in the second year what springs from that. But in the third year sow, reap, plant vineyards, and eat their fruit. 


text:
Then the ones belonging to the house of Judah who have escaped will gather, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads be increased}</n> and those who are found <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and the remainder ; cf. LXX}</n> will take root downward and bear fruit upward. 


text:
For a remnant will come out of Zion, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read Jerusalem}</n> and a band of survivors from Jerusalem. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read Mount Zion}</n> The zeal of the Lord of the Heavenly Armies will accomplish this. 


text:
"Therefore this what the Lord says concerning the king of Assyria: «He won't enter this city, build up a siege ramp against it, shoot an arrow here, or threaten it with a shield. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads or shoot an arrow here, or threaten it with a shield, or build up a siege ramp against it}</n> 


text:
«because I will defend this city and deliver <n>{Or save}</n> it, for my own sake and for the sake of my servant David!»" 


text:
<n>{Sennacherib is Defeated}</n> d After this, the angel of the Lord went out and put to death 185,000 men in the Assyrian camp. When Hezekiah's army <n>{Lit. When the people}</n> awakened in the morning there were all the dead bodies! 


text:
Later, while he was worshiping in <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks in}</n> the house of his god Nisroch, his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer cut him down with swords and escaped to the land of Ararat. Then Sennacherib's <n>{Lit. his}</n> son Esar-haddon reigned in his place. 


text:
<n>{Hezekiah's Illness and Recovery}</n> d During that time, <n>{Lit. During those days}</n> Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. Then Amoz's son Isaiah the prophet came to him and told him, "This is what the Lord says: «Put your house in order, because you are going to die. You won't recover.»" 


text:
"Please, Lord ," he said, "Remember how I have walked before you faithfully and with a true heart, and I have done what pleases you." <n>{Lit. done what is good in your eyes}</n> And Hezekiah wept bitterly. 


text:
"Go tell Hezekiah, «This is what the Lord God of your ancestor David has to say: "I've heard your prayer and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> I've seen your tears; so I will add fifteen years to your life. 


text:
I'll save you and this city from the <n>{Lit. the hand of the}</n> king of Assyria, and I'll defend this city, for my own sake and for my servant David's sake. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack for my own sake and for my servant David's sake}</n> 


text:
Watch! I will make the shadow on the steps of the upper <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks upper}</n> dial of Ahaz that marks the sun go ten steps backwards."»" Then the sunlight turned back on the dial the ten steps by which it had gone down. 


text:
<n>{Hezekiah's Prayer}</n> d A composition by King Hezekiah of Judah, following his illness and recovery: 


text:
I said, "Must I leave in the prime of my life? Must I be consigned to the control <n>{Lit. gates ; i.e. the place where legal cases were adjudicated}</n> of Sheol? <n>{I.e. the realm of the afterlife}</n> Bitter are <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read the rest of}</n> my years!" 


text:
I said, "I won't see the Lord <n>{Lit. Yah ; So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Yah Yah ; MT mss read Lord}</n> in the land of the living; and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> I'll no longer observe human beings among the denizens of the grave. <n>{Lit. cessation ; or the end ; So 1QIsa a MT; MT mss read the world}</n> 


text:
My house has been plucked up and vanishes <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read and has been taken away}</n> from me like a shepherd's tent; like a weaver, I've taken account of <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads have rolled up}</n> my life, and he cuts me off from the loom day and night you make an end of me. 


text:
I've been swept bare <n>{So 1QIsa a ; or I cried for help ; MT reads I was composed ; cf. Targ}</n> until morning; just like a lion, he breaks all my bones day and night you make an end of me. 


text:
Like a swallow or a crane I chirp, I moan like a dove. My eyes look weakly upward. O Lord, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 1QIsa b reads LORD}</n> I am oppressed, so <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks so}</n> stand up for me! 


text:
What can I say, so I tell myself, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads for he has spoken to me}</n> since he has done this to me? <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and it is he who has done it}</n> I will walk slowly all my years because of my soul's anguish. 


text:
"My Lord is against them, yet they live, and among all of them who live is his spirit. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads is the life of my spirit}</n> Now you have restored me to health, so let me live! 


text:
Yes, it was for my own good that I suffered extreme anguish. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read bitter, bitter}</n> But in love you have held back <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX; MT reads you have loved}</n> my life from the Pit <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> in which it has been confined; <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads pit of destruction}</n> you have tossed all my sins behind your back. 


text:
For Sheol <n>{I.e. the realm of the afterlife}</n> cannot thank you, death cannot <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; implied in 1QIsa b MT}</n> sing your praise; and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> those who go down to the Pit <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> cannot hope for your faithfulness. 


text:
The living yes the living they thank you, just as I am doing today; fathers will tell their children about your faithfulness. 


text:
The Lord will save me, <n>{At this point a later scribe inserted into 1QIsa a a repetition of v. 19 and the beginning of v. 20, but with some different spellings and a word missing.}</n> and we will play my music on strings all the days of our lives in the Lord's Temple. <n>{The same second scribe continued with the rest of this verse; not originally in 1QIsa a .}</n> 


text:
Now Isaiah had said, "Let them prepare <n>{So MT; LXX reads Take ; 1QIsa a lacks Let them prepare}</n> a poultice of figs and apply it to the boil, so that he may recover." 


text:
Hezekiah also had asked, "What will be the sign for me to go up to the Lord's Temple?" <n>{38:21-22 So 1QIsa b MT LXX; 1QIsa a lacks vs. 21-22; a later, third scribe, includes vs. 21-22}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Visit by Merodach-baladan}</n> d At that time Merodach-baladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, when <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b MT; 4QIsa b LXX read because}</n> he heard he had been sick and had survived. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read had recovered}</n> 


text:
Hezekiah was delighted with them, and showed them everything in <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss ; the Heb. lacks in}</n> his treasure-houses <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read treasure-house ; MT qere reads his treasure-house}</n> the silver, the gold, the spices, the precious oils, his entire armory, and everything found in his treasuries. There was nothing in his palace or in all his kingdom <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads realm ; LXX lacks kingdom}</n> that Hezekiah did not show them. 


text:
<n>{Isaiah Rebukes Hezekiah}</n> d Then the prophet Isaiah came to King Hezekiah and asked him, "What did these men have to say? And from where did they come to you?" Hezekiah replied, "From a distant land they came to me from Babylon." 


text:
"What did they see in your palace?" he asked. "They saw everything in my palace," Hezekiah replied. "There is nothing in my treasuries that I did not show them." 


text:
Then Isaiah told Hezekiah, "Listen to this message <n>{Lit. word}</n> from the Lord of the Heavenly Armies: 


text:
«The days are surely coming when everything in your palace and all that your ancestors have stored up to this day will be carried off <n>{So 1QIsa a (pl.); cf. LXX; 1QIsa b MT (sing.)}</n> to Babylon. They will come in, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> nothing will be left,'says the Lord . 


text:
«Then some of your own sons, who will come from your loins, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT read from you}</n> whom you will father, will be taken away to become eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.»" 


text:
"The message from the Lord that you have spoken is good," Hezekiah replied to Isaiah, since he was thinking, at least there will be peace and security in my lifetime." 


text:
"Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her heavy service has been completed, that her penalty has been paid, that she has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins." 


text:
A voice cries out: «In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord ; and <n>{So1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> in the desert a straight highway for our God.'


text:
Every valley will be lifted up, and every mountain and hill will be lowered; the rough ground will become level, and the mountain ridges made a plain. 


text:
Then the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all humanity will see it at once; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken." 


text:
<n>{The Word of God Endures Forever}</n> d A voice says, "Cry out!" So I <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads he}</n> asked, "What am I to cry out?" "All humanity is grass, and all its loyalty <n>{Or glory}</n> is like the flowers of the field. 


text:
Grass withers and flowers fade away when the Lord's breath blows on them; surely the people are like grass. <n>{So MT; 1QIsa a LXX lack this v.}</n> 


text:
Grass withers and flowers fade away, when the Lord's breath blows on them, but the word of <n>{So MT LXX; 1QIsa a lacks the word of}</n> our God will stand forever. "


text:
<n>{Here is Your God}</n> d "Climb up a high mountain, you messenger of good news to Zion! Lift up your voice with strength, you messenger to Jerusalem! Lift it up! Don't be afraid! Say to the towns of Judah, «Here is your God!'


text:
Look! The Lord G od comes with strength, and his arm <n>{I.e. the Messiah}</n> rules for him. Look! His reward is with him, and his payment accompanies him. 


text:
Like a shepherd, he tends his flock. He gathers the lambs in his arms, carries them close to his heart, and gently leads the mother sheep." 


text:
<n>{Who is Like the Lord ?}</n> d "Who has measured the waters of the sea <n>{Lit. from}</n> in the hollow of his hand and marked off the heavens by the width of his hand? <n>{So 1QIsa a Syr; MT LXX read by a hand's width}</n> Who has enclosed the dust of the earth in a measuring bowl, or weighed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance? 


text:
Who has fathomed the Spirit of the Lord , or as his counselor has taught him? <n>{I.e. the Spirit; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads the Lord}</n> 


text:
With whom did he consult to enlighten and instruct him on the path of justice? Or who taught him knowledge and showed him the way of wisdom? 


text:
"Look! The nations are like a drop in a bucket, and are reckoned as dust on the scales. Look! He even lifts up the islands like powder! 


text:
Lebanon would not provide enough fuel, nor are its animals enough for a burnt offering. <n>{40:14b-16 So MT LXX; 1QIsa a includes these lines by a later scribe}</n> 


text:
All the nations are as nothing before him they are reckoned by him as <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads as less than}</n> nothing and chaos. 


text:
"To whom, then, will you compare me, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack me}</n> the One who is <n>{1QIsa a LXX MT lack the One who is}</n> God? Or to what image will you liken me? <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read him}</n> 


text:
To an idol? A craftsman makes <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads casts}</n> the image, and a goldsmith overlays it with gold and casts silver chains. 


text:
To the impoverished person? He prepares <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack prepares}</n> an offering <n>{So MT; later 1QIsa a scribe includes this line}</n> wood that won't rot Or to the one who chooses a skilled craftsman <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read chooses wood}</n> and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks and}</n> seeks <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads seeks a skilled craftsman}</n> to erect an idol that won't topple?" 


text:
<n>{The Majesty of the Lord}</n> d "You know, don't you? You have heard, haven't you? Hasn't it been told you from the beginning? Haven't you understood from the foundations of the <n>{So MT; implied in 1QIsa a}</n> earth? 


text:
He's the one who sits above the disk of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers. He's the one who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to live in, 


text:
No sooner are they planted, no sooner are they sown, no sooner have <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read has}</n> their stems taken root in the earth, than <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT read and then ; LXX lacks than}</n> he blows on them, and they wither, and the tempest sweeps them away like stubble. 


text:
"To <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT read And to}</n> whom, then, will you compare me, and to whom should I be equal?" asks the Holy One. 


text:
"Lift your eyes up to heaven and see who created all these the one who leads out their vast array of stars by number, calling them all by name because of his great might and his <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack his}</n> powerful strength <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads strong}</n> and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> not one is missing." 


text:
<n>{The Lord Watches Israel}</n> d "Jacob, why do you say and Israel, why do you complain «My predicament is hidden from the Lord , and my cause is ignored by my God.'? 


text:
Don't you know? Haven't you heard? The Lord is the eternal God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not grow tired or weary; and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> his understanding cannot be fathomed. 


text:
He's the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks The}</n> one who gives might to the faint, renewing strength for the powerless. 


text:
but those who keep waiting for the Lord will renew their strength. Then <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack Then}</n> they'll soar on wings like eagles; they'll run and not grow weary; they'll walk and not grow tired." 


text:
<n>{The Lord Comes as Judge}</n> d "Be silent before me, you coastlands, and let the people renew their strength! Let them come forward, then let them speak together let's draw near for a ruling. 


text:
Who has aroused victory from the east, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> has summoned it to his service, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> has handed over nations to him? Who brings down kings, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> turns them into dust with his sword, into windblown stubble with his bow? 


text:
And <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> who pursues them and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> moves on unscathed by a path that his feet don't know? <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads travel}</n> 


text:
Who has performed and carried this out, calling the generations from the beginning? I, the Lord the first and will be with the last I am the One!" 


text:
<n>{Idolators Encourage Each Other}</n> d "The coastlands have looked and are afraid; the ends of the earth have drawn near together <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads earth tremble}</n> and come forward. 


text:
Each helps his neighbor, saying <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read and saying ; cf. LXX}</n> to each other, «Be strong!'


text:
The craftsman encourages the goldsmith, and the hammersmith <n>{Lit. he who smoothes with the hammer}</n> encourages the one who strikes the anvil. He says <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads saying}</n> about the welding, «It's good!'and he reinforces it with nails so that it won't topple." 


text:
<n>{The Lord Encourages Israel}</n> d "But as for you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I've chosen, the offspring of my friend Abraham 


text:
you whom I encouraged from the ends of the earth and called from its farthest corners, and told you, «You're my servant, I've chosen you and haven't cast you aside.'


text:
Don't be afraid, because I'm with you; don't be anxious, because I am your God. I keep on strengthening you; I'm truly helping you. I'm surely upholding you with my victorious right hand." 


text:
<n>{The Coming Defeat of God's Enemies}</n> d "Look! All who are enraged at you will be put to shame and disgraced; those who contend with you will all die. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads will become nothing and die ; cf. LXX}</n> 


text:
Those who quarrel with you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read You will seek them and not find those who quarrel with you}</n> will be as nothing; those who fight you like nothing at all!" 


text:
<n>{A Call to Courage}</n> d "For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand, who says to you, «Don't be afraid. I'll help you. 


text:
Don't be afraid, you little worm Jacob, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> you insects of Israel! I myself will help you,'<n>{1QIsa a is masculine; MT is feminine}</n> declares the Lord, your <n>{1QIsa a is masculine; MT is feminine}</n> Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel." 


text:
<n>{A Promise of Victory}</n> d "See, I'm making you <n>{1QIsa a is masculine; MT is feminine}</n> into a new, sharp, and multi-tooth threshing sledge. You'll thresh and crush the mountains, and make the hills like chaff. 


text:
You'll winnow them, and the wind will lift them up, and a tempest will blow them away. Then you'll rejoice in the Lord , and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> you'll make your boast in the Holy One of Israel." 


text:
"As for the poor, the needy, those seeking <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read poor and the needy seeking}</n> water when there is none and their tongues are parched from thirst I, the Lord , will answer them. I, the God of Israel, won't abandon them. 


text:
I'll open up rivers on the barren heights, and fountains in the midst of the valleys. I'll turn the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT implies the}</n> desert into a pool of water, and the parched land into springs of water. 


text:
I'll put cedar trees in the wilderness, along with acacia, myrtle, and olive trees. I'll plant cypresses in the desert box <n>{Or elm}</n> trees, and pine trees together 


text:
all so that people may see and recognize, perceive, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a corrector MT LXX read to consider}</n> consider, and comprehend at the same time, that the hand of the Lord has done this, and that the Holy One of Israel has created it." 


text:
<n>{Can God's Enemies Predict the Future?}</n> d "Put forward your case!" says the Lord . "Submit your arguments!" says Jacob's King. 


text:
Let them approach and ask us, «What will happen? As to the former things, what were they? Tell us, so that we may consider them and know. Or <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads them. And we may know}</n> the latter things or the things to come let us hear. 


text:
Tell us what the future holds, so we may know that you are gods! Yes, do something good or something bad, so we may hear <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads stare at one another ; cf. LXX}</n> and gaze at it together.»" 


text:
"Look! You and your work are less than nothing; <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads you are nothing, and your work means nothing}</n> whoever finds you pleasing is disgusting." 


text:
"You are stirring up <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read I am raising}</n> one from the north, and they are coming <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads I am raising}</n> from the rising of the sun; and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> he will be called by his <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read my}</n> name. Rulers will arrive like mud; <n>{I.e. like an overflowing river; so 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads He will come, rulers like mud}</n> just <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and}</n> like a potter, he will trample the clay. 


text:
Who told of this from the beginning, so we could know, or beforehand, so we could ask, «Is it right? '<n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads He was right}</n> Indeed, no one told of this, no one made an announcement, and no one heard your words: 


text:
First, to Zion: "There is slumber." <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads look, there they are}</n> And to Jerusalem: "I'll send a messenger with good news." 


text:
But when I look, there is no one among them there's no one to give counsel, no one to give an answer when I ask them. 


text:
See, none of them exist, and their deeds are nothing. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads all of their works are utterly nothing}</n> Their metal images are only wind and confusion.»" 


text:
<n>{The Servant of the Lord}</n> d "Here is my servant, whom I support, my chosen one, in whom I delight. <n>{Lit. whom my soul delights}</n> I've placed my Spirit upon him; and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> he'll deliver his <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack his}</n> justice throughout the world. <n>{Lit. justice to the nations}</n> 


text:
A crushed reed he will not break, and a fading candle <n>{Lit. fading linen wick}</n> he won't snuff out. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads quench it}</n> He'll bring forth <n>{I.e. will demonstrate}</n> justice for the truth. 


text:
And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa h MT lack And}</n> he won't grow faint or be crushed until he establishes justice on the mainland, and the coastlands take ownership of <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read the islands wait for (cf. 4QIsa h )}</n> his Law." 


text:
<n>{God Speaks about the Servant}</n> d This is what God says the God <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a corrector reads and ; MT reads the Lord}</n> who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and its produce, who gives breath to the people on it and life <n>{Lit. spirit}</n> to those who walk in it: 


text:
"I've <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa h MT read I, the Lord, have ; LXX reads I, the Lord God, have}</n> called you in righteousness. I'll take hold of your hand. I'll preserve you and appoint you as a covenant to the people, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa h reads as an everlasting covenant}</n> as a light for the nations, 


text:
to open blind eyes and to bring out those who are bound <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa h MT read out prisoners}</n> from their cells, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa h MT lack and}</n> those sitting in darkness from prison. 


text:
I, the Lord , am the one, and I won't give my name and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa h MT LXX read I am the LORD; that is my name. I won't give my}</n> glory to another, nor my praise to idols. 


text:
See, the former things have taken place, and I'm announcing the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b 4QIsa h MT LXX lack the}</n> new things before they spring into being I'm telling you about them." 


text:
<n>{Praise in Song to God}</n> d Sing to the Lord a new song, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa h MT lack and}</n> his praise from the ends of the earth, you who sail down the sea and by everything in it, you coastlands and their inhabitants. 


text:
Let the desert cry out, <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa h LXX (singular); MT (plural)}</n> its towns and the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and its towns}</n> villages where Kedar lives; and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> let those who live in Sela sing for joy. Let them shout aloud <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads them cry joyfully}</n> from the mountaintops. 


text:
The Lord marches out like a warrior; he stirs up his rage like a man of war; he makes his anger heard; he shouts aloud; <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads He makes a war cry and shouts out his anger}</n> he declares his mastery over his enemies: 


text:
"I have certainly <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks certainly}</n> stayed silent for a long time; I've kept still and held myself back. Now, like a woman giving birth, I'll cry out. All of a sudden I'll gasp and pant. 


text:
I'll devastate the mountains and hills, and dry up all their vegetation; I'll turn rivers into islands, and dry up the ponds. 


text:
I'll help the blind walk, even <n>{Or and ; so 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks even}</n> on a road they do not know; I'll guide them in directions <n>{Lit. paths}</n> they do not know. I'll turn the dark places <n>{So 1QIsa a (misspelling places ); MT LXX read darkness}</n> into light in front of them, and the rough places into level ground. These are the things I will do, and I won't abandon them. 


text:
Those who trust in carved idols will turn back and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> be completely disappointed, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; MT ms lacks disappointed}</n> along with those <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack along with those}</n> who say to metal images, «You are our gods.»" 


text:
<n>{God Rebukes Israel}</n> d "Listen, you deaf people, and look up, you blind people, so you may see! 


text:
Who is blind except my servant, or deaf like my messenger I am sending? Who is blind like the one committed to me, or blind like the Lord's servant? 


text:
You've seen <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT qere reads To see (or He sees )}</n> many things, but you pay no <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; MT mss read he pays no}</n> attention. His ears are open, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads to open ; or are open}</n> but he doesn't listen. 


text:
The Lord was pleased, for the sake of his vindication, that he should magnify his Law and make it glorious. 


text:
But this is a people who have been robbed and plundered, all of them trapped in pits or hidden away in prisons. <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa g reads prison}</n> They have become prey, with no one to rescue them; they have been made loot, with no one to say, «Send them back!'


text:
"Who among you will listen, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> pay attention, and listen for the time to come?" 


text:
<n>{God Punishes Israel}</n> d "Who handed Jacob over to looters, and Israel to robbers? Was it not the Lord , against whom we have sinned? After all, they weren't willing to walk in his ways, and they wouldn't obey <n>{Or wouldn't listen to}</n> his instruction, 


text:
so he drenched him with <n>{Lit. he poured out on him}</n> the heat that is his anger, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa g MT read the heat, his anger}</n> the violence of war. It enveloped him in flames, but still he had no insight. It burned him up, but he didn't take it to heart." 


text:
<n>{The Future Redemption of Israel}</n> d But now this is what the Lord says, the one who created you, Jacob, the one who formed you, Israel: "Do not be afraid, because I've redeemed you. I've called you by name; you are mine. 


text:
When you pass through the waters, I'll be with you; and through the rivers, they won't sweep over you. when you walk through fire you won't be scorched, and the flame won't set you ablaze. 


text:
"I <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa g MT LXX read For I}</n> am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Redeemer . <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Savior}</n> And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks And}</n> I've given Egypt as your ransom, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read as your ransom Egypt}</n> Cush and the people of Seba <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa g MT read and Seba}</n> in exchange for you. 


text:
Since you're precious in my sight and honored, and because I love you, I'm giving up people in your place, and nations in exchange for your life." 


text:
<n>{The Regathering of Israel}</n> d "Don't be afraid, for I am with you; I'll bring your children from the east, and gather you from the west. 


text:
I'll say to the north, «Give them up'! and to the south, «Don't keep them back!'Bring <n>{1QIsa a employs masculine plural; MT employs feminine plural}</n> my sons from far away and my daughters from the ends of the earth 


text:
everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 1QIsa b reads and whom}</n> I formed and made. 


text:
Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the peoples be assembled. "Who is there among them who <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack who}</n> can declare this, or announce <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads announce to us ; LXX reads announce to you}</n> the former things? Let them produce their witnesses to prove them right, and let them proclaim <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads hear}</n> so people will say, «It's true.'


text:
"You are my witnesses," declares the Lord , "and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and trust me and understand that I am the One. <n>{Or am he}</n> Before me no God was formed, nor will there be one after me. 


text:
I've revealed and saved and proclaimed, when there was no foreign god among you and you are my witnesses," declares the Lord . 


text:
"I am God; also <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads God Yes, ; cf. LXX}</n> from ancient days <n>{Or from this day on,}</n> I am the one. And there is no one who can deliver out of my hand; when I act, who can reverse it?" 


text:
This is what the Lord says, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "For your sake I will send to Babylon, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT each spell this line differently}</n> and bring them all down as fugitives. Now as for the Babylonians, their ringing cry will become lamentation. 


text:
<n>{Something New for Israel}</n> d This is what the Lord says who makes a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, 


text:
who brings out chariots and horsemen, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks and}</n> armies and warriors at the same time. They lay there, never to rise again, extinguished, snuffed out like a candle: <n>{Lit. linen wick}</n> 


text:
"Don't remember <n>{1QIsa a employs second person singular; MT LXX employ second person plural}</n> the former things; don't dwell on things past. 


text:
Watch! I'm about to carry out something new! And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks And}</n> now it's springing up don't you recognize it? I'm making a way in the wilderness and paths <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read streams}</n> in the desert. 


text:
Wild animals, jackals, and owls <n>{Or ostriches}</n> will honor me because I provide <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads have provided}</n> water in the desert and streams in the wilderness to give drink to my people, my chosen ones, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads my chosen people}</n> 


text:
the people whom I formed for myself and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa g lacks my chosen ones}</n> so that they may speak <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa g MT LXX read recount}</n> my praise." 


text:
<n>{God is Weary of Israel}</n> d "And <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; MT mss lack And}</n> yet you didn't call upon me, Jacob; indeed, you are tired of me, Israel! 


text:
You haven't brought me your sheep for a burnt-offering, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads for your burnt-offerings ; or your burnt-offering}</n> nor have you honored me with <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; implicit in MT}</n> your sacrifices, nor have you made meal offerings for me <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa g MT read I have not burdened you with grain offerings ; LXX lacks this line}</n> yet I have not tired you about incense! 


text:
You <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa g reads And you}</n> haven't bought me sweet cane with money, nor have you satisfied me with the fat of your sacrifices. You have only burdened me with your sins and made me tired with your iniquities. 


text:
"I, I am the one who blots out your transgression <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads transgressions ; cf. LXX}</n> for my own sake, and I'll remember your sins no more. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads not remember your sins}</n> 


text:
Recount the brief! Let's argue the matter together; Present your case, so that you may be proved right. 


text:
So I'll disgrace the leaders of the Temple, and I'll consign Jacob to total destruction <n>{The Heb. term refers to involuntary dedication to God of the thing destroyed}</n> and Israel to contempt. 


text:
<n>{God's Blessing on Israel}</n> d "But now listen, Jacob my servant and Israel whom I have chosen: 


text:
This what the Lord says, the one who made you, formed you from the womb, and who will help <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads he will help}</n> you: "Don't be afraid, Jacob my servant, and Jeshurun, <n>{I.e. a poetic term for national Israel; the Heb. name means Upright One ; cf. Deut 32:15; 33:5, 26}</n> whom I have chosen. 


text:
For I'll pour water upon thirsty ground and streams on parched land. So <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks So}</n> will I pour my Spirit upon your offspring, and my blessing upon your descendants. 


text:
They'll <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read And they}</n> spring up as among <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss LXX Targ; MT reads up among}</n> the green grass, like willows by flowing streams. 


text:
One will say, «I belong to the Lord ,'and another will call himself by the name of Jacob; still another will have written on his hand, «the Lord's,'and will adopt the name of Israel." 


text:
<n>{I am the First and the Last}</n> d This is what the Lord says, the King of Israel and its Redeemer the Lord of the Heavenly Armies is his name <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack is his name}</n> "I am the first and I am the last, and apart from me there is no God. 


text:
Who is like me? Let him proclaim and declare it, and lay it out for himself <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read me}</n> since he made <n>{Or himself, making him ; so 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read since I made}</n> an ancient people. And let him speak <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT LXX lack let him speak}</n> future events; let them tell him what <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT read and what}</n> will happen. 


text:
Don't tremble, and don't be afraid. <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks and do not be afraid}</n> Didn't I tell you and announce it long ago? You are my witnesses. Is there any God besides me? There is no other Rock I don't know of any." 


text:
<n>{A Rebuke to Idol Worship}</n> d Now, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack Now}</n> all the forming of <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read those who form}</n> images means nothing, and the things they treasure are worthless. Their own witnesses cannot see, and they <n>{So MT LXX; 1QIsa a reads They}</n> know nothing. So they will be put to shame. 


text:
To be sure, all who associate with it will be put to shame; and as for the craftsmen, they are only human. Let them all gather together and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> take their stand. Then <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack Then}</n> let them be terrified they will be humiliated together. 


text:
The blacksmith prepares a tool and works in the coals, then <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack then}</n> fashions an idol with hammers, working by the strength of his arm. He even becomes hungry and loses his strength; he drinks no water and grows faint. 


text:
The carpenter measures it <n>{I.e. the idol; so 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks it}</n> with a line; he traces its shape with a stylus, then fashions it with planes and shapes it with a compass. He makes the idol like a human figure, with human beauty, to be at home <n>{Lit. to rest}</n> in a shrine. 


text:
He cuts down cedars, or chooses a cypress tree or an oak, and lets it grow strong among the trees of the forest. Or he plants a cedar, and the rain makes it grow. 


text:
He divides it up <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads It is ; LXX reads so that it is}</n> for people to burn. Taking part of it, he warms himself, makes a fire, and bakes bread. Or perhaps <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Also}</n> he constructs a god and worships it. He makes it an idol and bows down to it. 


text:
Half the wood he burns in the fire, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> over <n>{1QIsa a lacks over , but inserts it above the line}</n> that half he places <n>{Lit. half is}</n> meat so he can eat. He sits by its coals, warms himself, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read eats meat he roasted as a roast and is satisfied. He also warms himself}</n> and says, "Ah! I am warm in front of <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads I see ; LXX reads and I have seen}</n> the fire." 


text:
And the rest of it he makes into a god. To blocks <n>{Or to his Baals (i.e. to Canaanite deities); so 1QIsa a copyist error; MT LXX read god, for his idol}</n> of wood he bows down, worships, prays, and says, "Save me, since you are my god." 


text:
They don't realize; they don't understand, because their eyes are plastered over so they cannot see, and their minds, too, so they cannot understand. 


text:
No one stops to think. No one has the knowledge or understanding to think yes to think! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks yes to think!}</n> "Half of it I burned in the fire. I even baked bread on its coals, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks and}</n> I roasted meat and ate it. And <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa b lacks And}</n> am I about to make detestable things <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read make a detestable thing}</n> from what is left? Am I about to bow down to blocks <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads to a block}</n> of wood?" 


text:
He tends ashes. A deceived mind has lead him astray. It cannot be his life, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read He does not save his life}</n> nor can he say, "There's a lie in my right hand." <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read "There's no lie in my right hand, is there?"}</n> 


text:
<n>{A Call to Remembrance and Joy}</n> d "Remember these things, Jacob, Israel, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read and Israel}</n> for you are my servant. I have formed you; you are a servant to me. Israel, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa b LXX read and Israel}</n> you must not mislead me. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT read you won't be forgotten by me ; LXX reads don't forget me}</n> 


text:
I've wiped away your transgressions like a cloud and your sins like mist. Return to me; because I've redeemed you. 


text:
"Shout for joy, you heavens, for the Lord has done it! Shout aloud, you depths of the earth! Burst out with singing, you mountains, you forest, and all your trees! For the Lord has redeemed Jacob and will display his glory in Israel. 


text:
"This is what the Lord says, your Redeemer and the one who formed you in the womb: «I am the Lord, who has made everything, who alone stretched out the heavens, who spread out the earth Who was with me at that time? <n>{1QIsa a 4QIsa b MT LXX lack at that time}</n> 


text:
who frustrates the omens of idle talkers, and drives diviners mad, who turns back the wise, and makes their knowledge foolish; <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa b LXX; MT reads wise}</n> 


text:
who carries out the words of his servants, and fulfills the predictions of his messengers, who says of Jerusalem, "It will be inhabited," and of Judah's cities, "They will be rebuilt," and of her ruins, "I'll raise them up" ; 


text:
who says about Cyrus, "He's my shepherd, and he'll carry out everything that I please: He'll say of Jerusalem, «Let it be rebuilt,'and of my <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa b MT read the}</n> Temple, «Let its foundations be laid again.»"»" 


text:
<n>{Cyrus: God's Deliverer}</n> d This is what the Lord says to his anointed, Cyrus, whose right hand I have grasped to subdue nations before him, as I strip kings of their armor, <n>{Lit. I expose the loins of kings}</n> to open doors <n>{So 1QIsa a (pl.); MT (dual)}</n> before him and gates that cannot keep closed: 


text:
"I myself will go before you, and he <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read I}</n> will make the mountains <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b LXX; MT reads hills}</n> level; I'll shatter bronze doors and cut through iron bars. 


text:
I'll give you concealed treasures <n>{Lit. treasures of darkness}</n> and riches hidden in secret places, so that you'll know that it is I, the Lord , the God of Israel, who calls you by name. 


text:
For the sake of Jacob my servant, Israel <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and Israel}</n> my chosen, I've called you, and he has established you with a name, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads I have called you by your name, given you a title ; LXX reads I will call you by your name, and receive you}</n> although you have not acknowledged me. 


text:
I am the Lord , and there is no other besides me: and there are no gods. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT 1QIsa b read there is no other: besides me there are no gods}</n> I'm strengthening you, although you have not acknowledged me, 


text:
so that from the sun's rising <n>{I.e. the east}</n> to the west people may know that there is none besides me. "I am the Lord , and there is no other." 


text:
<n>{God is Sovereign}</n> d "I form light and create darkness, I make goodness <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads well-being ; LXX reads peace}</n> and create disaster. I am the Lord , who does all these things. 


text:
"Shout, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads Shower}</n> you skies above, and you clouds, and let righteousness stream down. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read Shower, you skies above, and let the clouds stream down righteousness}</n> I am <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack I am}</n> the one who says to the earth, «Let salvation blossom, and let righteousness sprout forth.'<n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 1QIsa c MT read Let the earth open up, let them bear the fruit of salvation, and let righteousness sprout forth also. I the Lord have created it}</n> 


text:
"Woe to the one who quarrels with his makers, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads maker}</n> a mere potsherd with the potsherds of the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks the}</n> earth! Woe to the one who says <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read Will clay say}</n> to the one forming him, «What are you making? 'or «Your work has no human <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack human}</n> hands? '! 


text:
Woe to the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks the}</n> one who says to his father, «What are you begetting? 'or to a woman, «To what are you giving birth? '!" 


text:
This is what the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX 1QIsa a corrector reads the Lord , the Holy One of Israel}</n> says, the Creator of the signs: "Question me about my children? <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; Lit. my sons and daughters ; MT reads says, and its creator: Question me of things to come about my children}</n> Or give me orders about the work of my hands? 


text:
I myself made the earth and personally created humankind upon it. My own hands stretched out the skies; I marshaled all their starry hosts." 


text:
<n>{God will Bless Cyrus}</n> d "I have aroused him <n>{I.e. Cyrus, king of Persia}</n> in righteousness, and I'll make all his pathways smooth. It is he who will rebuild my city and set my exiles free, but not for a price nor reward, " says the Lord of the Heavenly Armies. 


text:
This is what the Lord says: "The wealth of Egypt, and the merchandise of Ethiopia, those <n>{Lit. and those ; so 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and the}</n> Sabeans, men of great heights. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads height}</n> They'll come over to you and will be yours; They'll trudge behind you coming over in chains, they'll bow down to you. They'll plead with you, «Surely God is in you; and there is no other God at all.»" 


text:
<n>{God as Savior of Israel}</n> d "Truly you are a God who hides himself, O God of Israel, the Savior. 


text:
All of them will be put to shame indeed, disgraced! The makers of idols will go off in disgrace together. 


text:
But Israel will be saved by the Lord with everlasting salvation; you won't be put to shame or disgraced ever again." 


text:
For this is what the Lord says, who created the heavens he is God, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> the one who formed the earth and made it, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks and}</n> he is the one who established it; he didn't create it for <n>{Or it to remain in a state of ; so 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks for}</n> chaos, but formed it to be inhabited "I am the Lord and there is no other. 


text:
I didn't speak in secret, from somewhere in a land of darkness; I didn't say to Jacob's descendants, «Seek me in chaos.'I, the Lord , speak truth, declaring what is right. 


text:
"Gather together and come; draw near and enter, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read together}</n> your fugitives from the nations. Those who carry around their wooden idols know nothing, nor do those who keep praying to a god that cannot save. 


text:
Explain and present a case! Yes, let them take counsel together. Who announced this long ago, who declared it from the distant past? Was it not I, the Lord ? And there is no other God besides me, a righteous God and Savior; and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> there is none besides me. 


text:
<n>{Every Knee will Bow}</n> d By myself I have sworn from my mouth has gone out integrity, a promise <n>{Lit. word}</n> that won't be revoked: «To me every knee will bow, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks and}</n> every tongue will swear. '


text:
One will say of me, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads one said of me ; LXX reads saying}</n> «Only in the Lord are victories and might.'All who raged against him will come <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss LXX (pl.); MT (sing.)}</n> to him and will be put to shame. 


text:
<n>{God is Unique and Eternal}</n> d "Bel <n>{I.e. the Babylonian sun god Marduk}</n> bows down, Nebo <n>{I.e. Nabu, the Babylonian god of astronomy and learning, son of Marduk}</n> stoops low. Their idols are on beasts, on <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and on}</n> livestock. Your loads are more burdensome than their reports. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read burdensome, a load for the weary}</n> 


text:
They stoop, they bow down together, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks and}</n> they are not able to rescue the burden, but they themselves go off <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX (pl.); 4QIsa b MT (sing.)}</n> into captivity. 


text:
"Listen <n>{So 1QIsa a (sing.); MT LXX (pl.)}</n> to me, house of Jacob, and all you remnant of the house of Israel, who have been upheld from before your birth, and who have been carried from the womb. 


text:
Even <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and even}</n> until your <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack your}</n> old age, I am the one, and I'll carry you even until your gray hairs come. <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack come}</n> It is I who have created, <n>{Or made}</n> and I who will carry, and it is I who will bear and save. 


text:
"To whom will you compare me, count me equal, <n>{So 1QIsa a (sing.); 1QIsa b MT read consider equal (pl.); LXX reads see}</n> or liken me, so that I <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads we}</n> may be compared? 


text:
Those who pour out gold in <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read from}</n> a purse, weigh silver in a balance, hire a goldsmith in order to make <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa b MT read make it}</n> a god, and then <n>{Lit. and ; so 1QIsa a 1QIsa b LXX; MT lacks then}</n> they bow down and even worship it. 


text:
And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack And}</n> they lift it on their shoulders, carry it, set it up in its place, and there it stands. It cannot move <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads one cannot remove it}</n> from that spot. One may even call to <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads may cry out}</n> it, but it cannot answer nor save him from his distress. 


text:
Remember the former things from long ago, Because I am God, and there is no one else; I am God, and there is none like me. 


text:
I declare from the beginning things to follow, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX 4QIsa c ; MT reads the future}</n> and from ancient times things that have not yet been done; saying, «My purpose will stand, and he <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa c MT LXX read I}</n> will accomplish everything that I please.'


text:
I am calling a bird of prey from the east, and from a far country a man with his <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa d MT; 1QIsa b MT (vocalization) LXX read of my}</n> purpose. Indeed, I've spoken; I will certainly make it happen; I've planned it; <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa c MT LXX lack it}</n> and I will certainly carry it out. 


text:
My righteousness is brought near <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX 4QIsa c read I have brought near;}</n> and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks and}</n> it's not far off, and my salvation won't delay. I'll <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b 4QIsa c MT read And I}</n> grant salvation in Zion, and <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa d MT LXX lack and}</n> to Israel, my glory." 


text:
<n>{The Fall of Babylon}</n> d "Come down and sit in the dust, Virgin Daughter of Babylon. Sit on <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT use another preposition}</n> the ground without a chair, Daughter of the Chaldeans! For no longer will they call you tender and attractive. 


text:
Take millstones and grind flour. Remove your veil, strip off your robes, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa d MT read skirt}</n> bare your legs, and wade through the rivers. 


text:
Your nakedness will be <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read let it be}</n> exposed, and your disgrace will also be seen. I'll take vengeance, and I will spare no mortal. 


text:
"Sit silent, <n>{1QIsa a and MT use alternate forms of the same term}</n> and enter into the darkness, you daughter of the Chaldeans; for no more will they call you Queen of Kingdoms. 


text:
I was angry with my people, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT lack and}</n> I desecrated my heritage, and gave them into your control. You showed them no mercy; even on the aged you laid your yoke most heavily. 


text:
You said, «I will always continue Queen forever!'You didn't take these things into your thinking, nor did you think about their consequences. <n>{1QIsa a and MT use alternate forms; LXX reads the last things}</n> 


text:
"Now hear this, you wanton creature, lounging with no cares, and saying to herself: «I am the one, and there will be none besides me; I won't live as a widow, nor will I see <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT LXX read know}</n> the loss of children.'


text:
Both of these things will overtake you suddenly on a single day: loss of children and widowhood. They will come upon you in full measure, despite the multitude of your incantations and the great power of your spells." 


text:
<n>{Self-Deception of the Babylonians}</n> d "You trusted in your own knowledge. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read evil}</n> You said, «No one sees me.'Your wisdom and knowledge have misled you. You said in your heart, «I am the one, and there will be none besides me.'


text:
"But disaster will come <n>{So 1QIsa a (feminine); MT (masculine (incorrectly))}</n> upon you, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> you will not know how to charm it away. A calamity will befall you that you will not be able to <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks to}</n> ward off; and devastation will come upon you suddenly, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> you won't anticipate it. 


text:
"But <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack But}</n> stand up now with your spells and your many incantations, at which you have labored from your childhood until today, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; childhood. Perhaps you can gain some profit; perhaps you may inspire fear . LXX reads if you can gain some profit .}</n> 


text:
according to <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read You are wearied by}</n> your multiple schemes. Let them stand up now those who conjure <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads divide}</n> the heavens and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> gaze at the stars, predicting at the new moons and save you from what is about to happen to them. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads what things are about to happen to you ; LXX reads what is about to happen to you}</n> 


text:
"See, they are just like stubble; fire burns them up. They could not <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads cannot}</n> even save themselves from the power of the flame. There will be no coals for warming oneself, no fire to sit by. 


text:
So will they be to you those with whom you toiled and did business since your childhood they wander about, each in his own direction; there is not one who can save you. 


text:
<n>{God the Creator and Redeemer}</n> d "Listen to this, house of Jacob, you who are called by the name of Israel, and who have come forth from Judah's loins; <n>{Lit. waters ; this word is misspelled in both 1QIsa a and MT}</n> you who swear oaths in the name of the Lord and invoke the God of Israel but not in truth, nor in good faith. 


text:
For they name themselves after the holy city, and rely on the God of Israel the Lord of the Heavenly Armies is his name. 


text:
I foretold the former things long ago; it <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read they}</n> went forth from my mouth, and I disclosed them; Suddenly, I acted, and they came to pass. 


text:
Because I knew <n>{Lit. Because of my knowledge}</n> that you are obstinate, and because your neck is an iron sinew, and your forehead is bronze, 


text:
I told you these things long ago; I announced them to you before they happened so that you couldn't say, «My idol did them; my <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and my}</n> carved image or metal idol ordained them.'


text:
"You have heard now look at them all! How <n>{Lit. And how}</n> can you not admit them? From now on, I'll make you hear new things, hidden things that you have not known. 


text:
They are created now, and not long ago; you didn't hear them before today, so you cannot say, «Yes, I knew them.'


text:
And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX lack And}</n> neither had you heard, nor did you understand, nor did you open <n>{So 1QIsa a Targ; MT reads did your ear open itself ; CaiGen Syr Vulg read was your ear uncovered}</n> your ear long ago. <n>{Lit. ear from of old}</n> Indeed, I knew that <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks that}</n> you would act very deceitfully, and they would call <n>{So 1QIsa a ; LXX Targ read and you would be called ; 4QIsa d MT read deceitfully, calling}</n> you a rebel from birth. 


text:
I defer my anger for my name's sake, and as my first act <n>{Lit. and for my commencement ; or and for my profanation ; so 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT read for my praise ; LXX reads for my glorious deeds}</n> I'm restraining it for you, so as not to cut you off. 


text:
Look, I have refined you, but not like silver; I have purified <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read chosen}</n> you in the furnace of affliction. 


text:
For my own sake Yes, for my own sake! I'm doing it; indeed, how can I be profaned? <n>{Or can I wait ; so 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT read can it be profaned ; 4QIsa d MT read can it wait ; LXX reads can my name be profaned}</n> Furthermore, I won't give my glory to another." 


text:
<n>{The Lord Calls Israel}</n> d "Listen to these things, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read me}</n> Jacob, and Israel, whom I have called. I am the One: I am the first, I am even <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa d reads also}</n> the last. 


text:
Moreover, my hands laid <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read hand laid}</n> the earth's foundation, and my right hand spread out the heavens. I call out to them, and <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c 4QIsa d LXX; MT lacks and}</n> they stand up together. 


text:
Let all of them come together and listen: <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa d MT read Come together, all of you, and listen!}</n> Who is there among them that could declare <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT LXX read has declared}</n> these things? "The Lord loves me, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT read him ; LXX reads you}</n> and he will accomplish <n>{So 1QIsa a (misspelling carry out ); 4QIsa d MT read He will carry out ; LXX reads I have carried out}</n> my purpose <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT LXX ms read his purpose ; LXX reads your purpose}</n> against Babylon; his arm <n>{I.e. the Messiah; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads and his arm ; LXX reads to do away with the offspring}</n> will be against the Chaldeans. 


text:
I Yes, I! have spoken; indeed, I've called and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT read called him ; 4QIsa c LXX read brought him}</n> I've brought him, and he will make his path successful. <n>{Or his path will be successful ; so 1QIsa a (feminine) and 4QIsa d MT (masculine); 4QIsa c LXX read I will make his path successful}</n> 


text:
Draw near to me, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> listen to this: «From the beginning I haven't spoken in secret; at <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads from}</n> the time it happened, I was there.'And now the Lord God, and his Spirit, has sent me. <n>{Or has sent me and his Spirit .}</n> 


text:
"This is what the Lord says, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the Lord your God, who teaches you how to succeed, who directs you <n>{1QIsa a misspells this word}</n> in the path by which <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b 4QIsa c 4QIsa d MT lack which}</n> you should go. 


text:
Now <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa c LXX; MT lacks Now}</n> if only you had paid attention to my commandments! Then your peace would have been like a river, and your success like the waves of the sea. 


text:
Your descendants would've been like the sand, and your offspring <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read the offspring of your loins}</n> like its numberless grains. Their name wouldn't have been cut off or annihilated out of my reach. 


text:
"Go out from Babylon, flee from the Chaldeans! With happy shouts, announce and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack and}</n> proclaim this <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa d MT LXX read this. Send it forth}</n> to the ends <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT LXX read end}</n> of the earth: Say, «The Lord has redeemed his servant Jacob!'


text:
They didn't thirst when he led him <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX mss ; 4QIsa d MT LXX read them}</n> through the desolate places. He made water gush <n>{So 1QIsa a Syr; cf. Ps 78:20 and 105:41; 1QIsa b 4QIsa d MT read flow; LXX reads he will bring forth}</n> from a rock for them; he split open the rock, and water gushed out. 


text:
"But <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack But}</n> there is no peace," says the Lord , "for the wicked." 


text:
<n>{The Servant of the Lord}</n> d "Listen to me, you coastlands! Pay <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read and pay}</n> attention, you people <n>{Lit. peoples ; i.e. non-Israelis then in the land}</n> from far away! The Lord called me from the womb; while I was still in my mother's body, he pronounced my name. 


text:
He made my mouth like a sharp sword; he hid me in the shadow of his hands. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read hand}</n> He made me like a polished arrow and hid me away in his quivers. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa d MT LXX read quiver}</n> 


text:
"I <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT LXX read But I}</n> said: «I've labored for nothing. I've exhausted my strength on futility and on <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack on}</n> emptiness.'Yet surely my recompense is with the Lord , and my reward is with my God. 


text:
"And now, says the Lord, who formed you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX me}</n> from the womb as his servant to bring Jacob back to him so that Israel might be gathered <n>{So 1QIsa a MT qere LXX; 4QIsa d MT might not be gathered (misspelling)}</n> to him and I am honored in the Lord's sight and my God has been my help <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX strength}</n> 


text:
he says: "It is too small a thing for you to be my servant, to raise up the tribes of Israel <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX Jacob}</n> and bring back those of Jacob <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX Israel}</n> I have preserved. I'll also make you as a light to the nations, to be my salvation to the ends <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX end}</n> of the earth. 


text:
"This is what my Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT LXX lacks my Lord}</n> says the Lord your Redeemer, O Israel, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read the Redeemer of Israel}</n> and his Holy One to one despised by people, <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa d ; MT CaiGen LXX reads to one people despise}</n> to those abhorred <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX reads one abhorred}</n> as a nation, to the servant of rulers: "Kings see <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read Kings will see ; LXX reads Kings will see him}</n> and arise, and princes <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b reads They will rise ; MT LXX read princes will rise, and they}</n> will bow down, because of the Lord who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, the one who has <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and the one who has ; LXX reads and I have}</n> chosen you." 


text:
<n>{The Restoration of Israel}</n> d "This what the Lord says: "I'll answer <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX reads I have answered}</n> you in a time of favor, and on a day of salvation I'll help <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read I have helped}</n> you. I have watched over you, and given you as a covenant for the people, to restore the land, to reassign the inheritances that have been devastated; 


text:
saying to captives, «Come out!'and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lack and}</n> to those who are in darkness, «Be free!'<n>{Or darkness, «Show yourselves!'}</n> "They will feed on all the mountains, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads by the roads ; LXX reads in all their roads}</n> and their pasture will be on all the barren hills. 


text:
They won't hunger or thirst, nor will the desert heat or sun beat upon them; for the one who has compassion on them will drive them and guide them alongside springs of water. 


text:
"Watch! They'll come from far away some from the north and from the west, and others from the Aswan region." <n>{Lit. Syenes ; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads Syene ; LXX reads Persians}</n> 


text:
Shout with joy, you heavens, and rock with glee, you earth! Break out in song, you mountains! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Let the mountains break out ; MT qere, mss read And break out, you mountains}</n> The Lord is comforting <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read has comforted}</n> his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones. 


text:
<n>{Zion Not Forgotten}</n> d "But Zion said, «The Lord has abandoned me, and my God <n>{So 1QIsa a corrector; Lit. my God written above my Lord ; MT LXX read my Lord}</n> has forgotten me.'


text:
"Can a woman forget her nursing child, or have no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these mothers may forget; But as for me, I'll never forget you! 


text:
Look! I've inscribed you on the palms of my hands, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and}</n> your walls are forever before me. 


text:
Your builders <n>{So 1QIsa a Aquila Vulg LXX; MT reads sons}</n> are working faster than your destroyers, and those who devastated you go away from you. 


text:
Lift up your eyes and look around they have all gathered together and are coming to you. "As surely as I live," says the Lord , "you will clothe yourself with all of them like ornaments, and tie them on like a bride. 


text:
Indeed, your ruins, your desolate places, and your devastated land will now be too crowded for your inhabitants, while those who swallowed you up will be far away. 


text:
"The children who are grieving at present <n>{Lit. children of your bereavement}</n> will yet say in your hearing, «This place is too crowded for me; make room for me, so I may have a place to live.'


text:
Then you'll ask <n>{Lit. say}</n> in your heart, «Who bore these children for me, although I was childless and barren, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> an exile <n>{LXX lacks and an exile}</n> and cast aside? Who <n>{So 1QIsa a . MT LXX read And who}</n> brought these up? Look! <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks Look!}</n> For my part I was left all alone; but as for these, where have they come from? '


text:
"For <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack For}</n> this what the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads my Lord the Lord}</n> says, «Watch! I'll lift up my hand to the nations and raise my banner to the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks the}</n> peoples. <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX reads islands}</n> They will bring your sons in their arms, and your daughters will be carried on their shoulders.'


text:
"Oh, yes! <n>{Or And aha! ; so 1QIsa a cf. Isa 55:1; MT LXX read And it will happen that}</n> Kings will be your foster fathers, and their queens will be your nursing mothers. They will bow to you with their faces to the ground, and lick the dust from your feet. Then you will know that I am the Lord ; those who hope in me will not be disappointed. 


text:
"Can they seize plunder <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads plunder be seized}</n> from warriors, or <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks or}</n> can the captives of tyrants <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX Targ Vulg; MT reads righteous ones}</n> be rescued? 


text:
But this is what the Lord says: "He will seize <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads will be seized ;}</n> even the warriors'plunder, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX reads captives}</n> and the captives <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX reads plunder}</n> of tyrants will be rescued. I myself will quarrel with those who have a quarrel with you, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT Vulg read with your contender ; LXX reads your cause}</n> and I myself will save your children. 


text:
"I'll make those who mistreat you <n>{So 1QIsa a probably misspells this word as I will eat .}</n> eat their own flesh, and they will get drunk on their own blood, as with new wine. "Then all mankind will know that I am the Lord your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob." 


text:
<n>{A Call to Return to God}</n> d This is what the Lord says: "Where is your mother's certificate of divorce with which I sent her away? Or to which of my creditors did I sell you? Look! It's because of your sins that you were sold, and because of your transgressions that your mother was sent away. 


text:
Why is it that when I came, no one was there? Why was there no answer when I called? Was my arm <n>{Lit. my hand}</n> too short to redeem you? Do <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Or do}</n> I lack the strength to rescue you? Look! By my mere rebuke I dry up the sea, I turn rivers into a desert. Their fish stink for lack of water and die of thirst. 


text:
<n>{The Servant's Obedience}</n> d "The Lord God has given me a learned tongue, so that I may know how to sustain the weary with words. And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack And}</n> morning after morning he wakens, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> he wakens my ear to listen like those who are being taught. 


text:
My Lord G od <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads the Lord}</n> has opened my ears, and I did not rebel; I did not shrink back. 


text:
I gave my back to those who beat me and my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard. <n>{So MT; 1QIsa a employs an incorrect reading; LXX reads to blows}</n> I did not turn away <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads hide}</n> my face from insults and spitting. 


text:
For the Lord God helps me, so I won't be disgraced. Therefore I've made my face like flint, and I know that I won't be put to shame." 


text:
<n>{The Servant's Vindication}</n> d The one who vindicates me is near. Who, then, will bring a charge against me? Let's face each other! Who has a case against me? Let him confront me! 


text:
See! It is the Lord God who will help me. Who is it that will declare me guilty? See! They will all wear out like a garment; moths will eat them up. 


text:
Who among you fears <n>{So 1QIsa a (pl.); MT LXX read fear (sing.)}</n> the Lord , obeying the voice of his servant, who among you <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack among you}</n> walks <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX (pl.); MT reads walks (sing.)}</n> in darkness <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT employs a different form}</n> and has no light? Let him trust in the name of the Lord , and rely upon his God. 


text:
Look! All those <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read you}</n> who light a fire, who surround yourselves with flaming torches walk by the light of your fire, and by the torches that you have set ablaze! This is what you will receive from my hand: you will lie down in torment. 


text:
<n>{Deliverance for Zion}</n> d "Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness, you who seek the Lord ! Look to the rock from which you were cut, to the quarry from which you were hewn. 


text:
Look to Abraham your father, and to Sarah who gave you birth. For when he was only one person I called him, but I made him fruitful <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads blessed him ; LXX reads blessed him and loved him}</n> and made him many. 


text:
For the Lord will have compassion on Zion, have compassion on all her ruins. He will make her wilderness like Eden, and her deserts like the garden of the Lord . Joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving, and the sound of singing. <n>{Or music}</n> Sorrow and sighing will flee away. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack this line; cf Isa 51:11}</n> 


text:
"Pay attention to me, my people! Listen to me, my nation! For instruction <n>{Or For the Law}</n> will go out from me, and my justice will become a light for the nations. <n>{Lit. peoples}</n> I will quickly bring 


text:
my deliverance near; my salvation is on the way. His arm <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b reads My arms ; or My arm ; MT LXX read My arms}</n> will bring justice to <n>{The verb is pl. in 1QIsa a MT}</n> the nations; <n>{Lit. peoples}</n> the coastlands will hope for him, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read me}</n> and they will wait for his arm. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read my arm}</n> 


text:
"Lift up your eyes, you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read to the}</n> heavens and look to the earth beneath; and see who created these. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read for the heavens will vanish like smoke, and the earth will wear out like a garment}</n> Its inhabitants will die just like this; <n>{Or like gnats}</n> but my salvation will be forever, and my deliverance will never fail. 


text:
Listen to me, you who know righteousness, you people who have my instruction <n>{Or Law}</n> in their hearts. Don't fear the insults of mortals, and don't be dismayed at their hateful words. <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; spelling differs from MT; LXX reads contempt}</n> 


text:
For moths will eat them up just like a garment, and worms will devour them like wool; but my deliverance will last <n>{Lit. be}</n> forever, and my salvation to all generations. 


text:
"Awake! Awake! Clothe yourself with strength, you arm <n>{I.e. the Messiah}</n> of the Lord ! Awake, as in days gone by, as in generations of long ago. Was it not you who split apart <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c Vulg (cf. Job 26:12). MT LXX mss read cut in pieces}</n> Rehob, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT qere reads Rahab}</n> who pierced that sea monster through? <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c MT Vulg; LXX lacks Was itthrough?}</n> 


text:
Was it not you who dried up the sea, the waters of the great deep, who made a road in <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack in}</n> the depths of the sea so that the redeemed could cross over?" 


text:
<n>{A Promise of Return to the Land}</n> d "The scattered ones <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read ransomed ones ; 1QIsa a corrector wrote redeemed then erased and wrote scattered ones}</n> of the Lord will return, and they will enter Zion with singing. Everlasting joy will be upon their heads; they will attain joy and gladness, and <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c LXX; MT LXX lack and}</n> sorrow and sighing will flee away. <n>{So 1QIsa a MT ms (sing.); cf Isa 51:3; MT (pl.)}</n> 


text:
"I yes, I am the one who comforts you. Who are you, that you are so afraid of humans who will die, descendants of mere <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack mere}</n> men, who have been made <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads are made ; LXX reads will be dried up}</n> like grass? 


text:
As a result, you have forgotten the Lord who made you, who stretched out the heavens and laid the earth's foundations, and you live in constant fear every day because of the oppressor's fury, since he's ready to destroy. Now where is the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a omitted oppressor'sthe then inserted the missing lines at the top of column 43}</n> oppressor's fury? 


text:
Distress <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads The cowering one ; LXX lacks Distress}</n> will quickly be set free. He won't die in the Pit, <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> nor will he lack food." 


text:
<n>{A Promise of Restoration}</n> d "For I am the Lord your God, who churns up the sea, so that its waves roar, «The Lord of the Heavenly Armies is his name.'


text:
I have put my words in your mouth and have covered you with the shadow of my hand, so that I could plant the heavens and lay the earth's foundations, to say to Zion, «You are my people.'


text:
"Awake, Awake! Stand up, Jerusalem, you who have drunk from the Lord's hand from the cup that is <n>{Lit. hand, the cup of}</n> his anger. You have drunk to the dregs the cup that makes you stagger, <n>{Lit. the cup of staggering}</n> and have drained it. 


text:
There is no one to guide you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads no one to guide her ; LXX reads no one who comforted you}</n> out of all the children she bore, no one to take her by the hand out of all the children she brought up. 


text:
"These twin things have come upon you (who can feel sorry for you?): ruin and destruction, famine and the sword who can console you? 


text:
Your children have fainted. They lie at the head of every street, like antelope caught in a trap, filled with the anger of the Lord and the rebuke of your God. 


text:
This is what your Lord, the Lord, <n>{1QIsa a MT; MT ms lacks Lord}</n> says, your <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and your}</n> God, who defends his people's cause: "See, I have taken from your hand the cup that made you stagger. <n>{Lit. the cup of staggering}</n> And you will never again drink to the dregs the cup that is my anger. 


text:
But I will put it into the hands of those who tormented and oppressed you, <n>{51: 23 So 1QIsa a ; MT reads tormented you ; LXX reads harmed you and humiliated you}</n> those who said to you, «Lie down, <n>{Lit. bow down}</n> so we can step over you,'so that you had to make your back like the ground, and like a street for them to walk over." 


text:
<n>{The Redemption of Zion}</n> d Awake, awake! Clothe yourself with strength, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read with your strength}</n> O Zion! Put on your beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city, for the uncircumcised and the unclean won't enter you. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read you any more}</n> 


text:
Shake yourself from the dust and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa b MT lack and}</n> arise, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> sit on your throne, O Jerusalem! Loosen the bonds from your neck, O captive daughter of Zion. 


text:
For this is what the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads the Lord God}</n> says: "My people went down long ago into Egypt to live <n>{Or sojourn}</n> there; the Assyrian, too, has oppressed them without cause. 


text:
"Now therefore, what <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads who}</n> am I doing here," asks <n>{Lit. declares}</n> the Lord , "seeing that my people are taken away without cause? Those who rule over them are deluded," <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read them wail ; or them taunt}</n> says the Lord , "and continually, all the day long, my name is blasphemed. 


text:
Therefore my people will know my name; in that day <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX. MT reads therefore in that day}</n> they'll know that it is I who speaks, «Here I am!'


text:
"How beautiful <n>{Lit. they are beautiful ; so 1QIsa a MTT LXX mss ; 4QIsa b reads It is beautiful}</n> on the mountains are the feet of the one who brings news of peace, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read who brings good news}</n> who announces good things, who announces salvation, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads who announces peace, who brings news of good things, who announces salvation ; cf. LXX}</n> who says to Zion, «Your God reigns!'


text:
Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices, <n>{Lit. their voice ; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads the voice}</n> together they sing for joy; for they will see in plain sight the return of the Lord to Zion with compassion. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks with compassion}</n> 


text:
"Break forth together into singing, <n>{Lit. sing for joy (sing.); so 1QIsa a ; MT reads sing for joy (pl.)}</n> you ruins of Jerusalem; for the Lord has comforted his people, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> he has redeemed Jerusalem. 


text:
The Lord has bared his holy arm <n>{I.e. the Messiah}</n> in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God. 


text:
"Depart! Depart! Go out from there; touch no unclean thing; go out from the midst of her; purify yourselves, you who carry the vessels of the Lord . 


text:
For you won't go out in haste, nor will you go in flight; for the Lord will go before you; and the God of Israel will be your rear guard. He is called the God of all the earth." <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack this line}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Suffering Servant}</n> d "Look! My servant will prosper, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa c MT lack and ; LXX lacks and he will be exalted}</n> he will be exalted and lifted up, and will be very high. 


text:
Just as many were astonished at you <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; MT mss Syriac read at him}</n> so was he marred in <n>{Or was my marring ; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads was the marring of}</n> his appearance, more than any human, and his form beyond that of human semblance <n>{Lit. of the descendants of humans ; so 1QIsa a ; LXX reads of the humans ; MT reads of the human}</n> 


text:
so will he startle <n>{Or sprinkle}</n> many nations. Kings will shut their mouths at him; for what had not been told them they will see, and what they had not heard they will understand. 


text:
"Who <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b MT; LXX reads Lord, who}</n> has believed our message, and <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT lacks and}</n> to <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT reads upon}</n> whom has the arm <n>{I.e. the Messiah}</n> of the Lord been revealed? 


text:
For he grew up before him like a tender plant, and like a root out of a dry ground; he had no form and he had <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack he had}</n> no majesty that we should look at him, <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b MT LXX; 1QIsa a may read at ourselves}</n> and there is no attractiveness that we should desire him. <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 1QIsa a may read desire ourselves}</n> 


text:
"He was despised and rejected by others, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack and}</n> a man of sorrows, intimately familiar with <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads and acquainted with ; 1QIsa b reads and knowing}</n> suffering; and like one from whom people hide their faces; and <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT LXX lacks and}</n> we despised him <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read he was despised}</n> and did not value him. 


text:
"Surely he has borne our sufferings and carried our sorrows; yet we considered him stricken, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> struck down by God, and afflicted. 


text:
But he was wounded for our transgressions, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> he was crushed for our iniquities, and <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT LXX lack and}</n> the punishment that made us whole was upon him, and by his bruises we are healed. 


text:
All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned, each of us, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 


text:
He was oppressed and he was afflicted, yet he didn't open his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, as <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and as}</n> a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he did not open <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads does not open}</n> his mouth. 


text:
"From detention and <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 1QIsa b lacks and}</n> judgment he was taken away <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 1QIsa b reads judgment they took him away}</n> and who can even think about his descendants? <n>{Or future}</n> For he was cut off from the land of the living, he was stricken <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads living, an affliction}</n> for the transgression of my people. 


text:
Then they made <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT read he made ; LXX reads I will give}</n> his grave with the wicked, and with rich people <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa a corrector MT read with a rich man}</n> in his death, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads deaths}</n> although he had committed no violence, nor was there any deceit in his mouth." 


text:
<n>{The Exaltation of the Servant}</n> d "Yet the Lord was willing to crush him, and he made him suffer. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT read he made him suffer ; LXX reads with a blow}</n> Although you make his soul an offering for sin, he <n>{So MT LXX; 1QIsa a reads And he}</n> will see his offspring, and <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa d ; 1QIsa b MT lack and}</n> he will prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will triumph in his hand. 


text:
Out of the suffering of his soul he will see light <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa d LXX; MT reads He will see of the suffering of his soul}</n> and <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa d ; MT lacks and}</n> find satisfaction. And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT lacks And}</n> through his knowledge his servant, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT read my servant}</n> the righteous one, will make many righteous, and he will bear their iniquities. 


text:
Therefore I will allot him a portion with the great, <n>{I.e. an allusion to the resurrection}</n> and he will divide the spoils with the strong; because he poured out his life to death, and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he carried the sins <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa d LXX; MT reads the sin}</n> of many, and made intercession for their transgressions." <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa d LXX; MT reads for the transgressors}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Coming Glory of Israel}</n> d "Sing, you barren woman, even the <n>{Or and ; so 1QIsa a 4QIsa d ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack even}</n> one who never bore a child! Burst into song and shout for joy, even <n>{Or and ; so 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT LXX lack even}</n> you who were never in labor! For the children of the desolate woman will be more than the children of her that is married," says the Lord . 


text:
"Enlarge the location <n>{Or place}</n> of your tent, let the curtains of your dwellings be stretched wide, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> don't hold back. Lengthen your cords; strengthen your stakes. 


text:
For you will spread out to the right hand and to the left, and your descendants <n>{Lit. seed}</n> will possess <n>{1QIsa a is plural; MT is sing.}</n> the nations and will populate the deserted towns. 


text:
"Don't be afraid, because you won't be ashamed; don't fear shame, for you won't be humiliated because you will forget the disgrace of your youth, and the reproach of your widowhood you will remember no more. 


text:
For your Maker is your husband; the Lord of the Heavenly Armies is his name, and the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; he is called the God of the whole earth. 


text:
For the Lord has called you back like a wife deserted and grieved in spirit, like the wife of a man's youth when she is cast off," says the Lord your God. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read says your God}</n> 


text:
I hid my face from you for a moment in a surge of anger, but I will have compassion on you with my <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c ; MT LXX lack my}</n> everlasting gracious love," says the Lord your Redeemer. 


text:
<n>{God's Reconciliation with Israel}</n> d "For this is like the waters of Noah to me, when I swore that the waters of Noah would never again spread over the earth; so have I sworn that I won't be angry with you again <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks again}</n> and that I <n>{1QIsa a LXX MT lack that I}</n> won't rebuke you. 


text:
For the mountains may collapse and the hills may reel, but my gracious love will not depart from you, neither will my covenant of peace totter," says the Lord , who has compassion on you. 


text:
"O afflicted one, <n>{I.e. the city of Jerusalem}</n> passed back and forth, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT read storm-tossed ; LXX reads unsteady}</n> and not comforted, Look! I am about to set your stones in antimony, and lay your foundations with sapphires. 


text:
And I'll make your battlements of rubies, and your gates of jewels, and all your walls of precious stones. 


text:
"In righteousness you'll be established; you will be far from tyranny, for you won't be afraid, and from terror, for it won't come near you. 


text:
Watch! If anyone does attack you, it will not be from me; whoever may attack <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads whoever attacks}</n> you will fall <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c ; MT reads he will fall ; LXX reads they will flee}</n> because of you. 


text:
Look! It is I who have created the blacksmith who fans coals in the fire, and produces a weapon for his purpose. It <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads And it ; cf. LXX}</n> is I who have created the ravager to wreak havoc; 


text:
no weapon that is forged against you will be effective. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT LXX read effective, and you will refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment}</n> This is the heritage of the Lord's servants, and their righteousness from me," says the Lord . 


text:
<n>{An Invitation to Life}</n> d "Come, everyone who is thirsty, come to the waters! Also, you that have no money, come, buy, and eat! Come! Buy <n>{So MT LXX; 1QIsa a skips from the first come, buy to the second come, buy, omitting the words in between}</n> wine and milk without money and without price. 


text:
Why spend your money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? <n>{Lit. what is not satisfaction ; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads what is not for satisfaction}</n> Listen carefully to me, and eat what is good, and let your soul delight itself in rich food. 


text:
Pay attention <n>{Lit. Turn your ear}</n> to me, come to me; and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lacks and}</n> listen, so that you may live; then I'll make <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa c MT read then let me make}</n> an everlasting covenant with you, as promised by <n>{1QIsa a 4QIsa c MT LXX lack as promised by}</n> my faithful, sure love for David. 


text:
"Look! You will call a nation that you do not know, and a nation that does <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads a nation (pl.) that do ; LXX reads nations that do}</n> not know you will run <n>{So 1QIsa a (sing.); MT LXX (pl.)}</n> to you, because of the Lord your God, even <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT 1QIsa a corrector read and because of}</n> the Holy One of Israel, for he has glorified you." 


text:
<n>{Steps to Reconciliation}</n> d "Seek the Lord while he <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b MT LXX; implied in 4QIsa c}</n> may be found, call upon him while he is near. 


text:
Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous person his thoughts. Let him return to the Lord , So he'll have mercy upon him, and to our God, for he'll pardon abundantly. 


text:
"For just as <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks just as}</n> the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 


text:
"For just as the rain and snow come down from heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, yielding seed for the sower and bread for eating, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads for the eater}</n> 


text:
so will my message be that goes out of my mouth it won't return to me empty. Instead, it will accomplish what I desire, and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. 


text:
"For you will go out in joy, and come back <n>{So 1QIsa a . MT reads and be led back cf. LXX}</n> with peace; the mountains and the hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees in <n>{Or of}</n> the fields <n>{Or orchards}</n> will clap their hands. 


text:
Instead of thornbushes, pine trees will grow, and <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss ; MT LXX lacks and}</n> instead of briers, myrtles will grow; and they <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read it}</n> will be a sign for the Lord , and an everlasting name <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read a name, an everlasting sign}</n> that will not be cut off." 


text:
<n>{The Covenant Extended to the Righteous}</n> d For <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack For}</n> this is what the Lord says: "Maintain justice, and do what is right, for soon my salvation will come, and soon my deliverance will be revealed. 


text:
Blessed is the one who does this, and the person that holds it fast, who observes the Sabbath without profaning it, and restrains his hands <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX 1QIsa b MT read hand}</n> from practicing any evil. 


text:
"Let <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read And let}</n> no foreigner who has joined himself to the Lord say: «The Lord will surely exclude me from his people.'Furthermore, let no eunuch say, «Look! <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b MT; LXX lacks Look !}</n> I am just a dry tree.»" 


text:
For this is what the Lord says: "To the eunuchs who observe my Sabbaths, who choose the things that please me, and who hold fast my covenant 


text:
to them I will give in my house <n>{I.e. God's Temple}</n> and within my walls a monument and a name better than sons and daughters. I will give them <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read him}</n> an everlasting name that will not be cut off. <n>{The Heb. verb is a word play on the Heb. word eunuch}</n> 


text:
"Also, the foreigners who join themselves to <n>{So 1QIsa a (cf. v 3); 1QIsa b MT read upon}</n> the Lord , to minister to him, to love the name of the Lord , <n>{So 1QIsa b MT LXX; 1QIsa a lacks this line}</n> to be his servants, and to bless the Lord's name, observing <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read all who observe}</n> the Sabbath without profaning it, and who hold fast my covenant 


text:
these I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer. Their burnt-offerings and their sacrifices will rise up to be accepted <n>{1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa i MT LXX read will be accepted}</n> on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for everyone." <n>{Lit. for all peoples}</n> 


text:
<n>{A Rebuke to Israel's Guardians}</n> d This is what the Lord God says, the one who gathers the outcasts of Israel: "I'll gather still others to them besides those already gathered. <n>{Lit. besides their gathered ones}</n> 


text:
"All you wild animals, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read Every wild animal}</n> come and devour even <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack even}</n> all of you wild animals. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read every wild animal}</n> 


text:
His <n>{I.e. Israel's; so 1QIsa a MT q}</n> watchmen <n>{MT reads His watchman ; LXX reads Look! They all}</n> are blind; they are all without knowledge. They are all dumb dogs they cannot bark. They keep on dreaming and lying around, and they're lovers of sleep! <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads sleeping}</n> 


text:
Meanwhile, <n>{Lit. And}</n> the dogs have a mighty appetite they can never get enough. And as for them, they are the shepherds <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads shepherds ; LXX reads evil}</n> who lack understanding; they have all turned to their own way, each one to his gain, each and every one. 


text:
«Come!'they say, «let's <n>{So 1QIsa a MT ms ; 1QIsa b reads I will ; MT reads let me}</n> have some wine, and let's fill ourselves with strong drink! Then, <n>{Or And}</n> tomorrow will be like today, <n>{1QIsa a reads this the day ; 1QIsa b MT read this day}</n> or even much better!»" 


text:
<n>{Israel's Idolatry}</n> d "Also <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT lacks Also ; cf. LXX}</n> the righteous are perishing, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read righteous person has perished}</n> but no one takes it to heart; devout people <n>{Lit. people of the mercy ; so 1QIsa a MT reads people of mercy ; LXX reads just men}</n> are taken away, while no one understands that the righteous person is taken away from calamity. 


text:
Then <n>{Or and ; so 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack Then}</n> he enters into peace, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks and}</n> they'll rest on his <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read their}</n> couches, each one living righteously. <n>{Lit. one walking in his uprightness ; so 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT reads her uprightness}</n> 


text:
"But as for you, come here, you children of a sorceress, you offspring of adulterers and prostitutes! <n>{So LXX (cf. Syriac); 1QIsa a MT read she has practiced prostitution}</n> 


text:
Whom are you mocking? And <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack And}</n> against whom do you make a wide mouth and stick out your tongue? Are you not children of transgression, the offspring of lies, 


text:
you who burn with lust among the oaks, under every spreading tree, who slaughter your children in the ravines, under the clefts of the rocks? 


text:
"Among the smooth stones <n>{I.e. among the idols}</n> of the ravines is your portion there they are as <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa i MT reads they yes, they! are ; LXX reads there this is}</n> your lot. To them you have poured out drink offerings; you have brought grain offerings. Should I be lenient over such things? 


text:
Behind the doors and the doorposts you have set up your pagan sign." For in deserting me you have uncovered your bed you have climbed up into it and have opened it wide. And you <n>{1QIsa a reads sing.; MT reads pl.}</n> have made a pact for yourself with them; you have loved their bed, you have looked on their private parts. <n>{Lit. their hand ; i.e. a euphemism for the male sex organ}</n> 


text:
You went to Molech <n>{I.e. to the Canaanite deity; or to the king}</n> with olive oil and increased your perfumes; you sent your ambassadors far away, you sent them down even to Sheol <n>{I.e. the afterlife}</n> itself! 


text:
You grew tired with your many wanderings, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads your wandering}</n> but you wouldn't say: «It is hopeless.'You found new strength for your desire, and so you did not falter. 


text:
"Whom did you so dread and while you feared me <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT LXX read and fear}</n> that you lied, and you did not remember me, and <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa d LXX; MT lacks and}</n> did not lay to heart these things? <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT lack thing ; LXX reads lay me to heart}</n> Haven't I remained silent for a long time, and still you don't fear me?" 


text:
"I will denounce your righteousness <n>{1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa d reads justice}</n> and your works, for your collections of idols <n>{1QIsa a lacks of idols ; 4QIsa d MT LXX read for they}</n> will not benefit you. 


text:
When you cry out, let your collection deliver you! The wind will carry them all off, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> a mere breath will sweep them all away." <n>{God's Reward for the Faithful}</n> d"But whoever <n>{Lit. But the one ; so 4QIsa d MT; 1QIsa a reads But one (i.e. without article)}</n> takes refuge in me will possess the land, and will inherit my holy mountain. 


text:
And one has said: <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads one will say ; or I will say ; LXX reads they will say}</n> «Build up! Build up the road! <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks the road}</n> Prepare the highway! Remove every obstacle from my people's way.'


text:
"For this is what the high and lofty One says, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: "He lives <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa d ; MT reads I live}</n> in the height and in holiness, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT read in the high and holy place}</n> and also with the one who is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite. 


text:
For I won't accuse forever, nor will I always be angry; for then the human spirit would grow faint before me even the souls that I have created. 


text:
Because of his wicked greed I was angry, so I punished him; and <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa d LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack and}</n> I hid my face, and was angry but he kept turning back to his stubborn will. <n>{Lit. into the way of his heart}</n> 


text:
I've seen his ways, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa d reads way}</n> yet I will heal him, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads him, and I will guide him ; LXX reads him, and I will exhort him}</n> and restore for him <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the reading is probably an error: MT LXX lack for him}</n> comfort <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT use different but related words}</n> to him and for those who mourn for him <n>{Lit. for his mourners}</n> 


text:
when <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa d MT lack when}</n> I create the fruit of the lips: Peace <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read Peace, peace cf. LXX}</n> to the one who is far away or near," says the Lord , "and I'll heal him. 


text:
But the wicked are tossed like the sea; <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa d MT read are like the tossing sea}</n> for it is not able to <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa d MT lack able to}</n> keep still, and its waters toss up mire and mud. 


text:
<n>{False and True Worship}</n> d "Shout aloud! Don't hold back! Lift up your voice like a trumpet! Declare to my people their rebellions, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read rebellion}</n> and to the house of Jacob their sins. 


text:
They <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa d LXX; MT reads And they}</n> seek me day after day, <n>{Lit. me day and day ; so 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b 4QIsa d MT read me day, day}</n> and are eager to know my ways, as if they were a nation that practices righteousness and has not forsaken the justice of their God. "They ask me to reveal just decisions; they are eager to draw near to God. 


text:
«Why have we fasted,'they ask, <n>{1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa d LXX MT lack they ask}</n> «but you do not see? «Why have we humbled ourselves,'<n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b LXX; MT reads ourself}</n> they ask, <n>{1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa d LXX MT lack they ask}</n> «but you take no notice?»" <n>{Fasting that God Approves}</n> d"Look! On your fast day you serve your own interest and oppress all your workers. 


text:
"Look! You fast only for quarreling, and for <n>{So 1QIsa b 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack for}</n> fighting, and for hitting with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and have your voice heard on high. 


text:
"Is this the kind of fast that I have chosen, merely a day for a person to humble himself? Is it merely for bowing down one's head like a bulrush, for lying <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT LXX read and for lying}</n> on sackcloth and ashes? Is this what you <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa d LXX (plural); 1QIsa b MT (sing.)}</n> call a fast, an <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT reads and an}</n> acceptable day to the Lord ? 


text:
Isn't this the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack the}</n> fast that <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack that}</n> I have been choosing: to loose the bonds of injustice, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack and}</n> to untie the cords of the yoke, and <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 1QIsa b 4QIsa d LXX lack and}</n> to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? 


text:
Isn't it to share your bread with the hungry, and to bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him with clothing, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack with clothing}</n> and not to raise yourself up <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read to hide yourself ; LXX reads to disregard}</n> from your own flesh and blood?" 


text:
<n>{God's Reward}</n> d "Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will spring up quickly; and your vindication will go before you, and <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b LXX; MT lacks and}</n> the glory of the lord will guard your back. 


text:
Then you'll call, and the Lord will answer; you'll cry for help, and he'll respond, «Here I am. '"If you do away with the yoke among you, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack and}</n> pointing fingers and malicious talk; 


text:
if you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the needs of afflicted souls, then your light will rise in darkness, and your night will be like noonday. 


text:
And the Lord will guide you continuously, and satisfy your soul in parched places, <n>{1QIsa a spells the word places incorrectly}</n> and they <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT reads he ; LXX reads and your bones will be strengthened}</n> will strengthen your bones; and you'll be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters never fail. 


text:
And your people will rebuild the ancient ruins; You'll raise up the age-old foundations, <n>{Lit. the foundations of many generations}</n> and people will call you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read you will be called}</n> «Repairer of Broken Walls,'«Restorer of Streets to Live In.'


text:
"If you keep your feet from trampling the Sabbath, from <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa n ; 1QIsa b MT lack from}</n> pursuing your own interests on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa n ; MT LXX lack and}</n> the Lord's holy day honorable; and if you honor it by not going your own ways <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa n MT; 1QIsa b reads way}</n> and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT lack and}</n> seeking your own pleasure or speaking merely idle <n>{1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa n MT LXX lack merely idle}</n> words, 


text:
then you will take delight in the Lord , and he <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b 4QIsa n LXX; MT reads and I}</n> will make you ride upon the heights of the earth; and he <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b 4QIsa n MT read and I}</n> will make you feast on the inheritance of your ancestor Jacob, your father. "Yes! The mouth of the Lord has spoken." 


text:
<n>{Sins that Separate from God}</n> d "See, the Lord's hand is not too short to save, nor are his ears <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read ear}</n> too dull to hear. 


text:
Instead, your iniquities have been barriers between you and your God, and your sins have concealed his face from you so that he won't listen. 


text:
For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your tongue <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read your lips have spoken lies, your tongue}</n> mutters wickedness. 


text:
No one brings a lawsuit fairly, and no one goes to law honestly; they have relied <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT reads they rely}</n> on empty arguments and they tell lies; they conceive <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT reads to conceive}</n> trouble and give birth <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT reads and to give birth}</n> to iniquity. 


text:
They hatch <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT reads They have hatched ; LXX reads hatched}</n> adders'eggs <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read an adder's eggs}</n> and weave <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads weave , but with a different Heb. word}</n> a spider's web; whoever eats their eggs dies, and any crushed egg hatches out futility. <n>{Lit. a viper ; so 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX utilize feminine form}</n> 


text:
Their cobwebs cannot become clothing, they cannot cover themselves with what they make. Their deeds are deeds of iniquity, and acts of violence fill their hands. 


text:
Their feet rush to evil, and they are quick to shed innocent blood. Their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; ruin, destruction, and violence <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and violence}</n> are in their paths. 


text:
The pathway of peace they do not know, and there is no justice in their courses. They have made their roads crooked; no one who walks in them will know peace." 


text:
<n>{A Commitment to Wait on God}</n> d "So justice is far from us, and righteousness does not reach us. We wait for light, but look there is darkness; we wait for brightness, but we walk in deep darkness. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads darknesses}</n> 


text:
Let's grope <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads We grope LXX reads They grope}</n> along the wall like the blind; let us grope like those who have no eyes. We stumble at midday as if it were twilight, in desolate places <n>{Or among vigorous people}</n> like dead people. 


text:
We all growl like bears; we <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and we}</n> sigh mournfully like doves. We look for justice, but there is none, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; Not in MT LXX}</n> for deliverance, but it's far from us. 


text:
"For our transgressions before you are many, and our sins testify <n>{1QIsa a cf. LXX; MT reads sin testifies}</n> against us; for our transgressions are with us, and as for our iniquities, we acknowledge them: 


text:
they've rebelled <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads rebellion LXX reads we have sinned}</n> in <n>{Lit. and}</n> treachery against the Lord , and are turning away from following our God; and they've spoken <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads speaking LXX reads we have spoken}</n> oppression and revolt, and are conceiving <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads conceiving and uttering ; LXX reads we have conceived and thought about}</n> lying words from the heart. 


text:
I'll drive back justice, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Justice is driven back LXX reads We withdrew justice}</n> and righteousness stands at a distance; for truth has fallen in the public square, and honesty cannot enter. 


text:
Truth is missing, and whoever turns away from evil becomes a prey." <n>{God Brings His Own Salvation}</n> d"Then the Lord looked, and it displeased him that there was no justice. 


text:
He saw that there was no one, and was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so his own arm <n>{I.e. the Messiah}</n> brought him victory, and his righteous acts upheld him. 


text:
He put on righteousness like a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on his head; he put on garments of vengeance for clothing, and wrapped himself in fury like a cloak. 


text:
So he will repay according to their action: Anger to his enemies, retribution to his foes; to the coastlands he will render their due. 


text:
So people will fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glories <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads glory LXX reads his glorious name}</n> from the rising of the sun; for he will come as a pent-up stream that the breath of the Lord drives along. 


text:
"As for me, this is my covenant with them," <n>{So 1QIsa a MT mss LXX; 1QIsa b MT read them , but the reading contains a grammatical object error}</n> says the Lord . "And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack And}</n> my Spirit that is upon you, and my words that I have put in your mouth, won't depart from your mouth, or from the mouths of your children, or from the mouths of your children's children, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read children, says the Lord,}</n> from now on and forever." 


text:
<n>{The Light of God's Deliverance}</n> d "Arise, shine! For your light has come; the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read and the glory}</n> glory of the Lord has risen upon you. 


text:
For look! Darkness will cover the earth and thick darkness is over the people, <n>{Lit. peoples}</n> but the Lord will arise upon you, and his glory will appear over you. 


text:
Nations will come to your light, and kings before <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads kings to the brightness of ; cf. LXX}</n> your dawn. 


text:
"Lift up your eyes and look around: They all gather together, they come to you; your sons will come from far away, and your daughters will be carried on the hip." <n>{Or arm}</n> 


text:
Then you will look and be radiant; your heart will swell with joy, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read will throb and swell with joy LXX reads you will be amazed in your heart}</n> because the abundance of the seas will be diverted to you, and the riches of the nations will come to you. 


text:
Throngs of camels will blanket you: the young camels of Midian and Ephu; <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read Ephah}</n> all those from Shebu <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read Sheba}</n> will come. They'll carry gold and frankincense, and proclaim the praise of the Lord . 


text:
All Kedar's flocks will be gathered to you, the rams of Nebaioth will serve you. and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack and}</n> they'll come up with acceptance upon <n>{So 1QIsa a cf. LXX; 1QIsa b MT read upon the acceptance of}</n> my altar, and I'll glorify my glorious house." 


text:
<n>{The Future Restoration of Zion}</n> d "Who are these that fly like clouds, and like doves to their windows? <n>{I.e. dovecotes , cages in which pet doves are housed}</n> 


text:
For the coastlands will look to me, with the ships of Tarshish in the lead, to bring my <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read your}</n> children from far away, their silver and gold with them, to the name of the Lord your God, and to the Holy One of Israel, because he has glorified you. 


text:
"Foreigners will rebuild your walls, and their kings will serve you. Though in my anger I struck you down, in my favor I have shown you mercy. 


text:
Your gates will always stand open by day or night, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack and}</n> they will not be shut, so that nations will bring you their wealth, with their kings led in procession. 


text:
For the nation or kingdom that will not serve you will perish; those nations will be utterly ruined. 


text:
"He has given you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack He has given you}</n> the glory of Lebanon, and it will come <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read Lebanon will come}</n> to you, the cypress, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT lack and}</n> the plane tree, <n>{i.e. a species of trees that could readily be stripped of their bark; cf. Gen 30:37}</n> and the pine, to adorn the place of my sanctuary; and I will make the place of my feet glorious. 


text:
"All <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack All}</n> the descendants of those who oppressed you will come bending low before you, and all those who despised you will bow down at your feet. They'll call you «The City of the Lord ,'«Zion of the Holy One of Israel.»" 


text:
<n>{Israel: the Joy of Generations}</n> d "Although you have been forsaken and despised, with no one traveling through, I will make you the everlasting pride, the joy of all generations. 


text:
You'll suck the milk of nations, You'll suck the breasts of kings. Then you will realize that I, the Lord , am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob. 


text:
"Instead of bronze, I'll bring gold, and instead of iron, I'll bring silver; instead of wood, bronze, and instead of stones, iron. I'll appoint peace as your supervisor and righteousness as your taskmaster. 


text:
Then <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack Then}</n> violence will no longer be heard in your land, nor devastation or destruction within your borders; but you'll call your walls «Salvation', and your gates «Praise'. 


text:
"The sun will no longer be your light by day, nor for brightness will the moon shine on you by night <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX. Not in 1QIsa b MT}</n> for the Lord will be your everlasting light, <n>{1QIsa b lacks and your God light ; 1QIsa a MT LXX contain the longer reading}</n> and your God will be your glory. 


text:
Your sun won't <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads will no longer}</n> set, nor will your moon withdraw itself for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning will end. 


text:
Then your people will all be righteous; They'll possess the land forever. They are the shoot <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa m MT; 1QIsa a MT ms lacks the shoot ; LXX reads Guarding}</n> that the Lord planted, <n>{Lit. of the plantings of the Lord ; so 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b reads of his plantings MT reads of his planting MT qere reads of my planting LXX reads the planting}</n> the works <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read work}</n> of his hands, so that I might be glorified. 


text:
The least of them will become a thousand, and the smallest one a mighty nation. "I am the Lord ; When the time is right, <n>{Lit. In its time}</n> I will do this swiftly." 


text:
<n>{Good News of Deliveerance}</n> d "The Spirit of the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b LXX; 4QIsa m MT read the Lord God}</n> is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lacks and}</n> to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives, and release from darkness <n>{Or prison ; or and opening of the eyes}</n> for the prisoners; 


text:
to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, the <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX ms ; 4QIsa b MT LXX read and the}</n> day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; 


text:
to provide for those who grieve in Zion to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, a mantle of praise instead of a spirit of despair." "Then people will call them <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read they will be called}</n> "Oaks of Righteousness" , "The Planting of the Lord" , in order to display his splendor. 


text:
They will rebuild the ancient ruins; they will restore the places long devastated; they will build again the ruined cities, they will build again <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lacks again}</n> the places devastated for many generations. 


text:
Strangers will stand and feed your flocks, and foreigners will work your land and dress your vines. 


text:
But as for you, you will be called priests of the Lord , and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lacks and}</n> you will be named ministers of our God. You will feed on the wealth of the nations, and you will boast about their riches. 


text:
Instead of your shame you will receive double, and instead of disgrace people will shout with joy over your <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads their}</n> inheritance; therefore you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX reads they}</n> will inherit a double portion in their land; everlasting joy will be yours." <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads theirs ; LXX reads over their head}</n> 


text:
"For I, the Lord, love justice, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> I hate robbery and iniquity; I will faithfully present your reward <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LX read present their reward}</n> and make an everlasting covenant with you. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read with them}</n> 


text:
Your <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Their}</n> offspring will be known among the nations, and your <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read their}</n> descendants among the people. <n>{Lit. peoples}</n> All who see them will acknowledge them, that they are an offspring the Lord has blessed." 


text:
<n>{Rejoicing in God's Deliverance}</n> d "I will heartily rejoice in the Lord , my soul will delight in my God; for he has wrapped me in garments of salvation; he has arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, just like a bridegroom, like a priest <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads bridegroom decks himself like a priest ; LXX reads bridegroom decks me}</n> with a garland, and like a bride adorns herself with her jewels. 


text:
For just as the soil brings forth its shoots, and as a garden makes what is sown within it spring up, so the Lord God <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads the Lord G od ; LXX reads the Lord}</n> will make righteousness and praise spring up before all the nations for Zion's sake." <n>{So MT LXX; 1QIsa a ends v. 11 with for Zion's sake}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Vindication of Jerusalem}</n> d "And <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack And}</n> I won't remain silent, <n>{1QIsa a and MT use different Hebrew verbs for silent}</n> and for Jerusalem's sake I won't stay quiet, until her vindication shines out like brightness, and her salvation like a burning torch. 


text:
The nations will see your vindication, and all the kings your glory; and people will call you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and you will be called ; LXX reads he will call you}</n> by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will bestow. 


text:
And <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks And}</n> you'll no longer be called «Deserted,'and your land will no longer be called «Desolate'; but people will call you <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT lacks will call you}</n> «Hephzibah,'<n>{The Heb. word Hephzibah means My Delight is in Her}</n> and your land «Beulah'<n>{The Heb. word Beulah means Married}</n> for the Lord will take delight in you, and your land will be married." 


text:
"For just as <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack For just as}</n> a young man marries a maiden, so your sons will marry you; and just as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so your God will rejoice over you. 


text:
"Upon your walls, Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen; all day and all night they won't <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT LXX read never}</n> remain silent. You who make mention of the Lord , take no rest, 


text:
and give him no rest until he prepares, establishes <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read he establishes}</n> and makes Jerusalem a song of praise throughout the earth. 


text:
"The Lord has sworn by his right hand and by his mighty arm: <n>{I.e. the Messiah}</n> «I will never again give your grain <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT reads I will never give your grain again}</n> as food for your enemies; never <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read and never}</n> again will foreigners drink your new wine for which you have toiled; 


text:
but surely <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack but surely}</n> those who harvest it will eat it and praise the name of <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack the name of}</n> the Lord , and those who gather it will drink it in the courts of my sanctuary,'says your God." <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack says your God}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Coming of God to Reign}</n> d "Pass through <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read Pass through! Pass through}</n> the gates! prepare the way for the people! Build up! Build up the highway! Clear it of stumbling stones, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. Isa 8:14; 1QIsa b MT LXX read of stones}</n> speak among the peoples. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read raise a banner over the peoples}</n> 


text:
Here is the Lord ! Proclaim <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read See, the Lord has proclaimed}</n> to the ends <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read end}</n> of the earth, say to the inhabitants <n>{Lit. daughter}</n> of Zion: «See, your salvation is coming! See, his reward is with him, and his recompenses are <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read recompense is ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read work is}</n> before him.'


text:
People will call them, «The Holy People,'«The Redeemed of the Lord» ; and they will call you, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read you will be called}</n> «Sought After,'«The City Not Deserted.»" 


text:
<n>{God's Day of Vengeance}</n> d "Who is this coming from Edom, from Bozrah, in garments stained crimson? Who is this, robed in such splendor, marching in his great might? It is I, speaking in vindication, mighty to save. 


text:
"Why is your clothing red, and your garments like those worn by the ones who tread in the winepress? <n>{So 1QIsa a ; or coriander or clothing}</n> 


text:
"I have trodden the winepress alone, and from my people <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read from the peoples}</n> no one was with me, I trampled them in my anger and trod them down in my wrath; their lifeblood spattered on my garments, <n>{So 1QIsa b MT LXX; 1QIsa a lacks I trampledmy garment}</n> and I stained <n>{So 1QIsa a 1QIsa b ; MT verb I stained is problematic.}</n> all my clothing. 


text:
I looked, but there was no helper, I was appalled that there was no one to give support; <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read to support me}</n> so my own arm <n>{I.e. the Messiah}</n> brought me victory, and as for my wrath, it supported me. 


text:
I trampled people <n>{Lit. peoples}</n> in my anger; in my wrath I made them drunk and I poured out their lifeblood on the ground." 


text:
<n>{God's Grace to Israel}</n> d I will recount the gracious deeds of the Lord , the praiseworthy acts of the Lord , according to all the Lord has done for us yes, the great goodness to the house of Israel that he has granted them according to his mercy, according to the abundance of his gracious love. 


text:
For he said, "Surely they are my people, children who won't act falsely." And so he became their savior. 


text:
In all their distress he wasn't distressed, <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; some MT mss read he was distressed .}</n> but the angel of his presence saved them; in his acts of love <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads in his love ; LXX reads because of his love for them}</n> and in his acts <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads act of pity}</n> of pity he redeemed them; he carried them and lifted them up <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read lifted them up and carried them}</n> all the days of old. 


text:
Yet they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit; so he changed and became their enemy, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> he himself fought against them. 


text:
Then they <n>{I.e. his people}</n> remembered the days of old, of Moses his servant. Where is the one who brought up <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads brought them up}</n> out of the sea the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads with the}</n> shepherds of his flock? Where is the one who put his Holy Spirit among them, 


text:
and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and}</n> who made his glorious arm <n>{I.e. the Meessiah; lit. arm of his glories ; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads arm of his glory}</n> march at Moses'right hand, who divided the waters in front of them to win <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read to win for himself}</n> an everlasting name, 


text:
like cattle that go down into the valley, the Spirit of the Lord gave them rest. For <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read This is how}</n> you led your people, to win for yourself a glorious name. 


text:
<n>{God the Father}</n> d Look down from heaven, and see from your holy and glorious dwelling. Where are your zeal and your might? Where are the yearning of your heart and your compassion? They are held back from me. 


text:
But you are our Father, even <n>{Lit. and ; so 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read but or although}</n> Abraham does not know us and Israel has not acknowledged <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads Israel does not acknowledge}</n> us; you are he, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read you}</n> O Lord , our Father, from long ago, «Our Redeemer'is your name. 


text:
Why, Lord , do you make us wander <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read do you make us wander, Lord}</n> from your ways and harden our hearts, so that we do not fear you? Turn back for the sake of your servants, for the sake of the tribes that are your heritage. 


text:
Your holy people took possession <n>{So 1QIsa a (sing.); MT is pl.; LXX reads so that we may take possession}</n> for a little while, but now our enemies have trampled down your sanctuary. 


text:
<n>{A Prayer for God to Intervene}</n> d <n>{This v. is 63:19 in the MT}</n> If only you would tear open the heavens and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks and}</n> come down, so that the mountains would quake at your presence 


text:
<n>{This v. is 64:1 in the MT}</n> just as fire sets twigs <n>{Or brushwood}</n> ablaze and the fire causes water to boil to make known your name to your enemies, yes, to your enemies before you, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads to make your name known to your adversaries}</n> so that the nations might quake at your presence! 


text:
When you did awesome deeds that we expected, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads did not expect}</n> you came down, and the mountains shuddered before you. 


text:
Since <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads And since}</n> ancient times no one has heard, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT lacks and}</n> no ear has perceived, and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him. 


text:
You come to the aid of those who gladly do what's right, To those who remember you in your ways. See, you were angry, and we sinned against them for a long time, but we will be saved. 


text:
All of us have become like one who is unclean, and <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa b LXX; MT lacks and}</n> all our righteous acts are like a filthy rag; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind, our iniquities <n>{The 1QIsa a utilizes a masculine noun; 1QIsa b MT utilize a feminine noun}</n> sweep us away. 


text:
There is no one who calls on your name or rouses himself to take hold of you; for you have hidden your face from us, and have given us <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads have melted us ; LXX reads have delivered us}</n> into the control <n>{Lit. hand}</n> of our iniquity. 


text:
<n>{God, our Father, will Act}</n> d But as for you, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read But now}</n> O Lord , you are our Father; and <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT lacks and}</n> we are clay, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read the clay}</n> and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hands. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads your hand}</n> 


text:
Don't be angry beyond measure, Lord , and don't remember our iniquity for a season. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads for ever}</n> Please look now, we are all your people. 


text:
Your holy cities have become a desert; Zion has become like <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack like}</n> a desert, Jerusalem a desolation. 


text:
Our holy Temple and our splendor, where our ancestors praised you, have become <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read Our holy and glorious Temple has become}</n> a conflagration of fire, and all our dearest places have become <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads all our dearest places has become ; MT mss read our every dearest place has become}</n> ruins. 


text:
<n>{God's Response}</n> d "I let myself be sought by those who didn't ask for me; <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads ask}</n> I let myself be found by those who didn't seek me. I said, «Here I am! Here I am!'to a nation that didn't call on my name. 


text:
I held out my hands all day long to a disobedient <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads an obstinate}</n> people, who walk in a way that isn't good, following their own inclinations 


text:
a people who continually provoke me to my face; they <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads who}</n> keep sacrificing in gardens and waving their hands <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and offering incense}</n> over stone <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read brick}</n> altars; 


text:
who sit among graves, and spend the night in secret places; who eat pigs'meat, with the broth <n>{So 1QIsa a MT qere LXX Targ Vulg; MT reads violence ; or crumbs}</n> of detestable things in <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack in}</n> their pots; 


text:
who say, «Keep to yourself!'«Don't touch <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read come near to}</n> me!'and «I am <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read for I am}</n> too holy for you! '"Such people are smoke in my nostrils, a fire that keeps burning all day long. 


text:
Watch out! It stands written before me: «I won't keep silent, but I will pay back in full; I'll indeed repay into <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read upon}</n> their laps 


text:
both your iniquities and your ancestors'<n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX Syr read both their iniquities and their}</n> iniquities together,»'says the Lord. "Because they offered incense on the mountains and insulted me on hills, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read the hills}</n> I'll measure into <n>{So 1QIsa a MT qere ; MT LXX read upon}</n> their laps full payment for their earlier actions." 


text:
<n>{A Remnant will be Preserved}</n> d This is what the Lord says: "Just as new wine is found in the cluster, and people have said, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read say}</n> «Don't destroy it, for there is a gift in it,'so I'll act for my servants'sake, by not destroying them all. 


text:
I'll bring forth descendants from Jacob, and from Judah they <n>{Lit. he ; so 1QIsa a LXX}</n> will inherit <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads Judah, the one about to inherit}</n> my mountains; my chosen people will inherit it, and my servants will live there. 


text:
Sharon will become a pasture for flocks, and the Valley of Achor a fold for herds, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads a place for herds to lie down}</n> for my people who have sought me. 


text:
But as for you who forsake the Lord , who forget my holy mountain, who spread a table for Fortune <n>{I.e. Fortune personified as a god}</n> and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX reads and who}</n> fill drink offerings <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read cups of mixed wine , or mixing vessels}</n> for Destiny, <n>{I.e. Destiny personified as a god}</n> 


text:
I'll consign <n>{Lit. destine}</n> you to the sword, and all of you will bend down for the slaughter because when I called, you didn't answer, when I spoke, you didn't listen; but you did what was evil in my sight, and chose what I took no pleasure in." 


text:
<n>{The Righteous and Wicked Contrasted}</n> d Therefore, this is what the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa a reads Adonai ; MT reads Lord God}</n> says: "See, my servants will eat, but you'll go hungry; my servants will drink, but you'll go thirsty; my servants will rejoice, but you'll be put to shame. 


text:
My servants will sing in gladness <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads out of gladness}</n> of heart, but you'll cry for help <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read cry out}</n> from anguish of heart, and you'll howl from brokenness of spirit. 


text:
You'll leave your name to my chosen ones as a curse, and the Lord G od will put you to death permanently. <n>{Or for good ; so 1QIsa a ; MT LXX reads but he will call his servants by a different name}</n> 


text:
Then whoever takes an oath <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read whoever invokes a blessing in the land will bless}</n> by the God of faithfulness, and whoever takes an oath in the land, will swear by the God of faithfulness, because the former troubles are forgotten and are hidden from my eyes. 


text:
<n>{A New Universe}</n> d Take notice! I'm about to create new heavens and a new earth; the former things won't be remembered, nor will they come to mind. 


text:
But be glad <n>{Sing. 1QIsa a ; pl. MT}</n> and rejoice <n>{Sing. 1QIsa a ; pl. 1QIsa b MT}</n> forever in what I am creating, for I am about to create Jerusalem as a joy, and its people as a delight. 


text:
I'll rejoice over Jerusalem, and take delight in my people; no longer will the sound of weeping be heard in it, nor the cry of distress. 


text:
"And <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack And}</n> there will no longer be in it a young boy <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read an infant ; cf. 49:15}</n> who lives only a few days, or an old person who does not live out his days; for one who dies at a hundred years will be thought a mere youth, and one who falls short of a hundred years will be considered accursed. 


text:
People <n>{Lit. They}</n> will build houses and live in them; They'll plant vineyards and eat their fruit. 


text:
They won't build for others to inhabit; they won't plant for others to eat for like the lifetime <n>{Lit. days}</n> of a tree, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read the tree}</n> so will the lifetime <n>{Lit. days}</n> of my people be, and my chosen ones will long enjoy <n>{Lit. consume or wear out}</n> the work of their hands. 


text:
They won't toil in vain nor bear children doomed to misfortune, for they will be offspring blessed <n>{Sing. 1QIsa a LXX; pl. 1QIsa b MT}</n> by the Lord , they and their descendants with them. 


text:
"The wolf and the lamb will feed together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox; but as for the serpent its food will be dust! They won't harm or destroy on my entire holy mountain," says the Lord . 


text:
<n>{The Worship that God Commands}</n> d This is what the Lord says: "Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Where is the house <n>{I.e. a reconstructed Temple}</n> that you would build for me, and where will my resting place be? 


text:
All these things my hand has made, and so all these things came into being," declares the Lord . "But this is the one to whom I will look favorably: to the one who is humble and contrite in spirit, and who <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT lack who}</n> trembles at <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT use different Heb. prepositions}</n> my message. 


text:
"Whoever slaughters an ox is just like <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack just like}</n> one who kills a human being; whoever sacrifices a lamb is just like one who breaks a dog's neck; whoever makes a grain offering is just like one who offers pig's blood; and whoever makes a memorial offering of frankincense is just like one who blesses an idol. Yes, these have chosen their own ways, and they take delight in their contaminated actions. 


text:
Therefore <n>{Or So}</n> I, too, will choose harsh treatment for them, and will bring upon them what they dread. For when I called, no <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read and no}</n> one answered; when I spoke, they didn't listen; but they did what I consider to be evil, and chose what doesn't please me." 


text:
<n>{The Lord Vindicates Zion}</n> d "Hear this message from the Lord , you who tremble at his words: <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read his word}</n> "Your own brothers who hate you and exclude you because of my name have said: «Let the Lord be glorified; he will see <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads so that we may see ; LXX reads so that the name of the Lord may be glorified}</n> your joy,'yet it is they who will be put to shame. 


text:
"Listen to that uproar in <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read from}</n> the city! Listen to that noise from the Temple! It is the sound of the Lord paying back retribution to his enemies! 


text:
"Before she goes into labor she gives birth; before her pains come upon her she has delivered <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read and she has delivered}</n> a son. 


text:
Who has ever heard of such a thing? And <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT lack And}</n> who ever sees <n>{So 1QIsa a . 1QIsa b MT LXX read has seen}</n> such things? Can a country be born in a single day, or can a nation be brought forth in a single moment? Yet no sooner was Zion in labor than she delivered her children. 


text:
Am I to open the womb and not deliver?" asks <n>{Lit. says}</n> the Lord . "And when I bring to delivery, am I to close <n>{So 1QIsa a (imperfect); 1QIsa b MT (perfect)}</n> the womb?" asks your God. 


text:
"Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be happy for her, all you who love her; rejoice with her in gladness, all you who mourn over her, 


text:
so that you may nurse and be satisfied at her consoling breasts, and so that you may drink deeply and take delight from her glorious bosom." 


text:
<n>{The Rule of God}</n> d This <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read For this}</n> is what the Lord says: "See, I will extend prosperity to her like a river, and the wealth of nations like a flooding stream; and you will nurse, and you <n>{1QIsa a feminine pl.; MT masculine pl.}</n> will be carried on her hip, <n>{Or arm}</n> and bounced upon her knees. 


text:
Like a child whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; and you will be comforted in Jerusalem. 


text:
And when you look, your hearts will rejoice and your bodies will flourish like grass; and it will be made known that the Lord's hand is with his servants, but his fury is with his enemies. 


text:
"Take notice! The Lord will come with fire, and his chariot <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read his chariots}</n> will be <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack will be}</n> like a whirlwind, to pay back his anger yes, his anger! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack yes, his anger!}</n> in fury, and his menacing rebukes <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read his rebuke}</n> in flames of fire. 


text:
For with fire and with his sword the Lord will proceed to judgment <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read settle his claim}</n> on all humanity, <n>{Lit. on the humanity ; so 1QIsa a ; MT reads on humanity}</n> and those slain by the Lord will be many." 


text:
"Those who consecrate and purify themselves to enter the groves, <n>{I.e. pagan sacred worship sites located in forested areas}</n> following the one at the center of those who eat the meat of pigs, disgusting things, <n>{Or vermin}</n> and rats, are all alike," <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX read alikethey will meet their end together}</n> says <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads declares}</n> the Lord . 


text:
"But as for me, I know their actions and their thoughts. Come <n>{So IQIsa a ; MT LXX read I am about to come}</n> and gather all nations and languages, and they will come and see my glory. 


text:
"I will put up signs <n>{So IQIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT read a sign}</n> among them, and from them I will send survivors to the nations to Tarshish, Libya, <n>{Lit. Put}</n> and Lydia, <n>{Lit. Lud}</n> (who draw the bow), <n>{The Lydians were known for their skills at archery}</n> to Tubal and Greece, <n>{Lit. Javan}</n> to the far off coastlands that have not heard of my fame or seen my glory. Then they will proclaim my glory among the nations. 


text:
They will bring all yes, all! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT read bring all ; LXX reads bring}</n> of your kindred from all the nations to <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads upon}</n> my holy mountain Jerusalem as an offering to the Lord on horses, in chariots, in wagons, and on mules yes, even on mules! <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack yes, even on mules!}</n> and on camels," says the Lord, "just as the Israelis bring a grain offering in a clean vessel to the Lord's house. 


text:
Then I will also select some of them for myself <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 1QIsa b MT LXX lack for myself}</n> as priests and as Levites," <n>{I.e. the ministry formerly held by the descendants of Levi}</n> says the Lord . 


text:
"For as the new heavens and the new earth that I am about to make will endure before me," says the Lord , "so will your descendants and your name endure. 


text:
And from New Moon to New Moon, and from Sabbath to Sabbath, <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa c ; lit. to her Sabbath ; MT reads to his Sabbath}</n> all <n>{Lit. the ; so 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX lack all}</n> humanity will come to worship before me," says the Lord . 


text:
"Then they will go out and look upon the dead bodies of the people who rebelled against me. For their worm will not die, nor will their fire be extinguished, and they will remain an object of revulsion to all <n>{Lit. the ; so 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa b MT LXX lack all}</n> humanity." 


text:
<n>{ The Book of the Prophet}</n> <n>{ Jeremiah}</n> d <n>{Introduction}</n> d The words of Hilkiah's son Jeremiah, <n>{The Heb. name Jeremiah means God has appointed me}</n> who was one of the priests at Anathoth in the territory of Benjamin. 


text:
This message from the Lord came to him during the thirteenth year of the reign of <n>{Lit. him in the days of}</n> Ammon's son Josiah, the king of Judah, 


text:
and during the reign of <n>{Lit. and in the days of}</n> Josiah's son Jehoiakim, the king of Judah, and continued until the exile of Jerusalem in the fifth month, at <n>{Lit. until}</n> the end of the eleventh year of the reign of Josiah's son Zedekiah, the king of Judah. 


text:
"I knew you before I formed you in the womb; I set you apart for me before you were born; I appointed you to be a prophet to the nations." 


text:
I replied, "Ah, Lord God! Look, I don't know how to speak, because I'm only <n>{The Heb. lacks only}</n> a young man." 


text:
Then the Lord told me, "Don't say, «I'm only <n>{The Heb. lacks only}</n> a young man,'for you will go everywhere I send you, and you will speak everything I command you. 


text:
The Lord stretched out his hand, touched my mouth, and then told me, "Look, I've put my words in your mouth. 


text:
See, today I've appointed you to prophesy about nations and kingdoms, to pull up and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant." 


text:
<n>{The Visions of the Almond Branch and Boiling Pot}</n> d This message from the Lord came to me, asking, "What do you see, Jeremiah?" I replied, "I see an almond branch." 


text:
The Lord told me, "You have observed well, because I'm watching over <n>{The Heb. word almond ( shaqed ) sounds like the Heb. word watching ( shoqed )}</n> my message, to make sure it comes about." 


text:
This message from the Lord came to me a second time: "What do you see?" I replied, "I see a boiling pot, and its mouth is tilted away from the north." 


text:
because I'm about to summon all the families and kingdoms from the north," declares the Lord . "They'll come and each one will set up his seat <n>{Or throne}</n> at the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem, against all of its surrounding walls, and against all of the towns of Judah. 


text:
"I'll pronounce my judgments against them because of all their wickedness. They have forsaken me, they have burned incense to other gods, and they have bowed down in worship to the works of their own <n>{The Heb. lacks own}</n> hands." <n>{I.e. idols}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Lord's Assurance to Jeremiah}</n> d "As for you, get ready! <n>{Lit. gird up your loins}</n> Stand up and tell them everything that I've commanded you. Don't be frightened as you face them, or I'll frighten you right in front of them. 


text:
"As for me, today I'm making you a fortified city, an iron pillar, and a bronze wall against the whole land against the kings of Judah, against its princes, against its priests, and against the people of the land. 


text:
They'll fight against you, but they won't prevail against you, because I am with you," declares the Lord , "to deliver you." 


text:
"Go and announce to Jerusalem: «This is what the Lord says: "I remember the loyal devotion of your youth, your love as a bride. You followed me in the desert, in a land that was not planted. 


text:
Israel was consecrated <n>{Or set apart}</n> to the Lord , she was the first fruits <n>{I.e. the first and best}</n> of his produce. All who devoured her became guilty and disaster came on them," declares the Lord .»" 


text:
<n>{Her Rejection of God's Love}</n> d Listen to this message from the Lord , you descendants of Jacob and all the families of the descendants of Israel. 


text:
This is what the Lord says: "What did your ancestors find wrong with me that they left me, and pursued worthless things, <n>{I.e. idols or false gods}</n> and so they became worthless? 


text:
"They didn't ask, «Where is the Lord who brought us up from the land of Egypt, who led us through the wilderness, through the land of desert and pits, through the land of dryness and deep darkness, a land that people don't pass through, and where no one lives? '


text:
"I brought you into the fruitful land to eat its fruit and its good things. But you came in, defiled my land, and made my inheritance into an abomination. 


text:
"The priests didn't say, «Where is the Lord ? 'and those handling the Law didn't know me. The rulers transgressed against me, the prophets prophesied by Baal, and they followed that which does not profit. <n>{I.e. idols or false gods}</n> 


text:
"Indeed, go over to the coasts of Cyprus and see, send to Kedar and pay very close attention. See if there has ever been such a thing as this! 


text:
Has a nation ever changed gods when they aren't even gods? But my people have exchanged their glory for that which does not profit. 


text:
Heavens, be appalled at this, be shocked, be utterly <n>{Lit. very}</n> devastated," declares the Lord . 


text:
"Indeed, my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living water, <n>{I.e. fresh water}</n> and they have dug cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that cannot hold water." 


text:
<n>{Consequences of Israel's Unfaithfulness}</n> d "Is Israel a slave, or was he born a servant? <n>{Lit. was he a home born servant (cf. Exod 21:4)}</n> Why then has he become plunder? 


text:
Young lions roar at him, they cry out loudly. They have made his land into a wasteland, and his cities are destroyed so they are without inhabitants. 


text:
Also, people from Memphis and Tahpanhes <n>{I.e. Egyptian cities}</n> have broken <n>{Or shaved}</n> your skull. 


text:
You have done this to yourselves, have you not, by forsaking the Lord your God, when he is the one who led you on the way? 


text:
Now, what are you doing on the road to Egypt, to drink the waters of the Nile? And what are you doing on the road to Assyria, to drink the waters of the Euphrates? 


text:
Your wickedness will be punished, and you will be corrected due to your acts of apostasy. Know and see that it's evil and bitter for you to forsake the Lord your God, but the fear of me is not in you," declares the Lord G od of the Heavenly Armies. 


text:
"For long ago I broke your yoke and tore off your bonds, But you said, «I won't serve you!'Instead, on every high hill and under every green tree, you bend down to commit fornication. 


text:
I planted you myself as a choice vine, from the very best seed. <n>{Lit. faithful seed}</n> How did you turn against me into a degenerate and foreign vine? 


text:
Though you wash yourself with lye and use much soap, the stain of your guilt is still before me," declares the Lord G od . 


text:
<n>{Israel's Passion for Sin}</n> d "How can you say, «I'm not defiled. I haven't gone after the Baals.'? <n>{I.e. images of the Canaanite storm god}</n> Look at what you've done <n>{Lit. at your way}</n> in the valley. Know what you have done. You are a swift young camel galloping aimlessly; 


text:
a wild donkey accustomed to the desert, sniffing the wind in her passion. When she's in heat, who can turn her away? None of the males who pursue her need to tire themselves out, for in her month <n>{I.e. at mating time}</n> they'll find her." 


text:
"Don't run until your feet are bare and your throat is dry. <n>{Lit. Hold back your feet from being bare and your throat from being dry}</n> But you say, «It's hopeless! Because I love foreign gods, <n>{Or foreigners}</n> I'll go after them!»" 


text:
"As a thief is disgraced when he's caught, so the house of Israel is disgraced they, their kings, their princes, their priests, and their prophets, 


text:
who say to a tree, «You are my father,'and to a stone, «You gave birth to me.'They have turned their back to me, but not their faces. In the time of their trouble, they'll say, «Rise up! Deliver us!»" 


text:
"But where are your gods that you made for yourselves? Let them rise up, if they can deliver you in the time of your trouble. You have as many gods as you have towns, Judah. 


text:
"I've punished your children with no results, <n>{Lit. in vain}</n> they have accepted no discipline. Your sword has devoured your prophets like a destroying lion." 


text:
"You, generation, pay attention to <n>{Or see}</n> this message from the Lord ! Am I the desert to Israel, or a land of gloom? Why do my people say, «We're free to roam? We won't come to you anymore.'


text:
Will a young woman forget her wedding <n>{The Heb. lacks wedding}</n> ornaments, or a bride her attire? But my people have forgotten me days without number. 


text:
How well you perfect your techniques <n>{Lit. your way}</n> for seeking love. Therefore you can teach even the most immoral women <n>{Lit. the wicked women}</n> your techniques. <n>{Lit. your ways}</n> 


text:
On your skirts is found the lifeblood of the innocent poor, even though you didn't catch them breaking in. Yet despite all these things, 


text:
you say, «I'm innocent. Surely his anger has turned away from me.»" "I'm about to bring charges against you <n>{Lit. enter into judgment with you}</n> because you say, «I haven't sinned.'


text:
Why do you go about changing your mind so much? You will also be disappointed <n>{Or put to shame}</n> by Egypt, just as you were disappointed <n>{Or put to shame}</n> by Assyria. 


text:
You will also go out from this place with your hands over your heads. <n>{I.e. in a gesture indicating mourning}</n> For the Lord has rejected those in whom you trust, and you won't prosper through them." 


text:
<n>{God Contemplates Divorcing Israel}</n> d "When a man divorces his wife, she leaves him and becomes another man's wife, will the first husband <n>{Lit. he}</n> return to her again? The land would be deeply polluted, would it not? Since you have committed fornication with many lovers, would you now return to me?" declares the Lord . 


text:
"Look up to the barren heights and see. Is there any place <n>{The Heb. lacks Is there anyplace}</n> where you have not been ravished? You have sat beside the road, waiting <n>{The Heb. lacks waiting}</n> for them <n>{I.e. as if waiting for a prostitute}</n> like a nomad in the desert. And you have polluted the land with your fornication and your wickedness. 


text:
This is why the rain has been withheld and there are no spring showers. Yet you have a harlot's look <n>{Lit. forehead}</n> and you refuse to be ashamed. 


text:
will he hold on to his anger forever, will he persist in his wrath to the end? 'Look, you have spoken and done evil things, and you have succeeded in it." <n>{The Heb. lacks in it}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Example of Samaria}</n> d In the time of King Josiah the Lord told me, "Have you seen what unfaithful Israel did? She went up on every high hill and under every green tree, and she committed fornication there. 


text:
I thought, <n>{Lit. I said}</n> «After she has done all these things, she will return to me.'But she didn't return, and her treacherous sister Judah saw this. 


text:
I saw that even though I had sent unfaithful Israel away for all her adulteries and had given her a <n>{The Heb. lacks a}</n> divorce decree, her treacherous sister Judah didn't fear, and she, too, committed adultery. 


text:
She took her fornication so lightly that she polluted the land and committed adultery with stones and trees. <n>{I.e. the Canaanite fertility gods were represented by stones and trees.}</n> 


text:
Yet in all this her treacherous sister Judah didn't return to me with her whole heart, but rather deceptively," declares the Lord . 


text:
<n>{A Call for Repentance}</n> d Then the Lord told me, "Unfaithful Israel has shown herself more righteous than treacherous Judah. 


text:
Go, proclaim these words to the north, and say, «Return, unfaithful Israel,'declares the Lord . «I won't look on you in anger, for I am gracious,'<n>{I.e. characterized by gracious love}</n> declares the Lord . «I won't remain angry forever. 


text:
«Only acknowledge your iniquity, that you have rebelled against the Lord your God, and have scattered your favors to strangers under every green tree. But you haven't obeyed me,'declares the Lord . 


text:
"Return, unfaithful people," <n>{Or sons}</n> declares the Lord , "for I am your husband. <n>{Or master}</n> I'll take you, one from a city and two from a family, and I'll bring you to Zion. 


text:
I'll give you shepherds <n>{I.e. leaders}</n> after my own heart, and they'll shepherd you with knowledge and good sense." 


text:
"And in those days when you increase in numbers and multiply in the land," declares the Lord , "people will no longer say, «The Ark of the Covenant of the Lord ,'and it won't come to mind, and they won't remember it or miss it, nor will it be made again. 


text:
At that time people will call Jerusalem, "The Throne of the Lord ," and all the nations will be gathered to it, to the name of the Lord , to Jerusalem. They'll no longer stubbornly follow their own evil desires. <n>{Lit. follow the stubbornness of their evil hearts}</n> 


text:
In those days the house of Judah will walk with the house of Israel, and together they'll come to the land that I gave your ancestors as an inheritance." 


text:
<n>{God's Desire for His People}</n> d "I said, «How I wanted to treat you like children, and give you a pleasant land, the most beautiful inheritance of the nations.'I said, «You will call me, my father, and won't turn back from following me.'


text:
Instead, like an unfaithful wife leaves her husband, so you have been unfaithful to me, house of Israel," declares the Lord . 


text:
<n>{Israel Cries for Help}</n> d "A voice is heard on the barren heights, the weeping and pleading of the children of Israel because they have perverted their way. They have forgotten the Lord their God." 


text:
<n>{God Calls for Repentance}</n> d "Turn back, unfaithful people, <n>{ Or sons}</n> and I'll heal your unfaithfulness." <n>{Israel Replies}</n> d"Look, we're coming to you because you are the Lord our God. 


text:
Truly the hills are a deception, <n>{I.e. as a source of deliverance}</n> and the mountains <n>{I.e. where false gods were worshipped}</n> are confusion. Truly, in the Lord our God is Israel's salvation." 


text:
Since our youth the false gods have consumed the products of our ancestors'hard work, their sheep and their cattle, their sons and their daughters. 


text:
"Let us lie down in our shame, and let our humiliation cover us, because both we and our ancestors have sinned against the Lord our God from our youth until this present time. We haven't obeyed the Lord our God." 


text:
<n>{Instructions for True Repentance}</n> d "Israel, if you return to me," declares the Lord , "Return to me, remove your detestable idols from my presence, and don't waver. 


text:
If you swear, «as surely as the Lord lives,'in truth, in justice, and in righteousness, then nations will be blessed <n>{Or bless themselves}</n> by him, and in him they will boast." 


text:
For this is what the Lord says to the men <n>{Or people}</n> of Judah and Jerusalem, "Break up your unplowed ground, and don't sow among thorns. 


text:
Circumcise yourselves to the Lord and remove the foreskin of your heart, you men of Judah and residents of Jerusalem, or else my wrath will break out like fire and burn with no one to put it out, because of your evil deeds." 


text:
<n>{Warning of the Coming Disaster}</n> d Declare in Judah, make known in Jerusalem, by saying, "Blow the trumpet in the land, cry out, and say, «Gather together and let's go to the fortified cities!'


text:
Raise a standard in the direction of Zion. Flee! Don't stand around! For I'm bringing calamity from the north, along with great destruction. 


text:
A lion has gone up from his thicket, and a destroyer of nations has set out. He has left his place to make your land a waste. Your cities will be ruined, and without inhabitants. 


text:
So, put on sackcloth, mourn and wail, because the burning anger of the Lord has not turned away from us." 


text:
"On that day," declares the Lord , "the courage of the king and the leaders will fail. The priests will be appalled and the prophets astounded." 


text:
Then I replied, "Ah, Lord GOD, you have completely deceived this people and Jerusalem when you said, «You will have peace,'while the sword is at their <n>{Lit. the}</n> throat!" 


text:
<n>{The Scorching Wind of Judgment}</n> d At that time, it will be told this people and to Jerusalem, "A scorching wind from the barren heights in the desert is coming <n>{The Heb. lacks is coming}</n> toward my people, and it's not for winnowing or cleansing. 


text:
A wind too strong for that is coming at my bidding. <n>{Lit. coming to me}</n> Now I'm judging them as I speak." 


text:
<n>{The People's Response to Judgment}</n> d Look, he comes up like clouds, and his chariots are like a whirlwind. His horses are as swift as eagles. Woe to us we're destroyed! 


text:
Jerusalem, wash your evil from your heart so that you may be delivered. How long will you harbor evil schemes within you? 


text:
<n>{The Lord Speaks}</n> d "Tell the nations, «Here they come!'<n>{The Heb. lacks they come}</n> Proclaim to Jerusalem, «The besieging forces are coming from a distant land. They cry out <n>{I.e. battle cries}</n> against the cities of Judah. 


text:
They have surrounded her like those guarding a field because they have rebelled against me,»" declares the Lord . 


text:
"Your lifestyles and your actions have brought these things on you. This is your calamity it is indeed bitter, for it has reached your heart!" 


text:
<n>{Jeremiah's Lament for His People}</n> d "My anguish, my anguish! I writhe in pain. Oh, the aching <n>{Lit. walls}</n> of my heart! My heart pounds within me; I cannot keep silent. For I hear the sound of the trumpet, <n>{I.e. the signal for the troops to attack}</n> the alarm for war. 


text:
Disaster upon disaster is proclaimed, for the entire land is devastated. Suddenly, my tent is destroyed, in a moment my curtains. 


text:
<n>{The Lord's Complaint about His People}</n> d "For my people are foolish, they don't know me. They're stupid children, they have no understanding. They're skilled at doing evil, but how to do good, they don't know." 


text:
<n>{A Vision of Chaos}</n> d I looked at the earth, and it was formless and void, <n>{Cf. Gen 1:2}</n> at the heavens, and there was no light there. 


text:
I looked, and the fruitful land <n>{Or Carmel}</n> had become a desert. All its towns were broken down because of the Lord , because of his burning anger. 


text:
For this is what the Lord says: "The entire land will be devastated, but I won't completely destroy <n>{Lit. do}</n> it. 


text:
Because of this, the land will mourn, and the heavens above will be dark. Because I have spoken and decided, I won't turn back from doing it." 


text:
<n>{A Lament for Zion}</n> d At the sound of the horseman and the archer the entire city flees. Its residents go into the thickets and climb among the rocks. Every city is abandoned, and no one lives in them. 


text:
You are ruined! What are you doing dressing in scarlet, putting on golden ornaments, and highlighting your eyes with makeup? You are making yourself beautiful in vain. Your lovers reject you they're out to kill you. 


text:
I heard a cry like that of a woman in labor, anguish like one giving birth to her firstborn, the cry of the daughter of Zion gasping for air, stretching out her hand: "Woe is me! I'm about to faint in front of killers!" 


text:
<n>{A Dialogue about Righteousness: The Lord Speaks}</n> d "Wander through the streets of Jerusalem. Look and investigate; <n>{Lit. know}</n> search through her squares and see whether you find anyone even one person there doing justice and seeking truth. Then I'll forgive them. <n>{Lit. her ; i.e. Judah}</n> 


text:
Although they say, «As surely as the Lord lives,'still they are swearing falsely." <n>{Or swearing to false gods}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Prophet Speaks}</n> d Lord , don't your eyes look for truth? You struck <n>{I.e. in discipline}</n> them, but they didn't flinch. <n>{Or did not weaken}</n> You brought them to an end, but they refused to receive discipline. They made their faces harder than stone, and they refused to repent. 


text:
Then I said, "These are only the poor, they're foolish, for they don't know the Lord's way, the requirement <n>{Or judgments}</n> of their God. 


text:
Let me go to the leaders <n>{Lit. great ones}</n> and speak to them. For they know the Lord's way, the requirement <n>{Or judgments}</n> of their God." <n>{The Lord Answers}</n> d"But they, all together, have broken the yoke and torn off the restraints. <n>{Or cords}</n> 


text:
Therefore a lion from the forest will attack them, a wolf from the desert will devastate them. A leopard is watching their towns, and everyone who goes out of them will be torn to pieces. For their transgressions are many, and their apostasies numerous. 


text:
Why should I forgive you? Your sons have forsaken me, and you have sworn by those who aren't gods. When I gave them enough food to satisfy them, they committed adultery and marched to the prostitute's house. 


text:
"Should I not punish them for these things?" asks the Lord , "And on a nation like this, should I not seek retribution?" 


text:
<n>{The People Reject God's Warning}</n> d "Go through her rows of vines and destroy them, but don't completely destroy them. Strip away her branches, because they aren't the Lord's. 


text:
For both the house of Israel and the house of Judah have been utterly unfaithful to me," declares the Lord . 


text:
"They have lied about the Lord by saying, «He wouldn't do that! <n>{Lit. Not he}</n> Disaster won't come on us. We won't see sword and famine. 


text:
The prophets are nothing but <n>{The Heb. lacks nothing but}</n> wind, and the word is not in them. So may the disaster happen to them!»" <n>{Lit. so let it be done to them}</n> 


text:
Therefore, this is what the Lord God of the Heavenly Armies says: "Because you people <n>{Heb. you (plural)}</n> have said this, my words in your <n>{Heb. your (masculine singular.); i.e. in Jeremiah's mouth}</n> mouth will become a fire and these people the wood. The fire <n>{Lit. It}</n> will destroy them. 


text:
People of Israel, I'm now bringing a nation from far away to attack you," declares the Lord . "It is an enduring nation, an ancient nation, a nation whose language you don't know. And you won't understand what they say. 


text:
"They'll devour your harvest and your food. They'll devour your sons and your daughters. They'll devour your vines and your fig trees. With their swords they'll batter down your fortified cities in which you trust. 


text:
When the people <n>{Lit. they}</n> ask, «Why has the Lord our God done all this to us? 'you are to say to them, «Just as you have forsaken me and served foreign gods in your land, so you will serve strangers in a land that is not yours.»" 


text:
<n>{The Lord Warns a Stubborn People}</n> d "Declare this to the descendants <n>{Or family}</n> of Jacob, and proclaim it in Judah: 


text:
«Hear this, you foolish and stupid people: They have eyes, but don't see; they have ears, but don't hear. 


text:
«You don't fear me, do you? 'declares the Lord . «You don't tremble before me, do you? I'm the one who put the sand as a boundary for the sea, a perpetual barrier that it cannot cross. <n>{Or statute that it cannot transgress}</n> Though the waves toss, they cannot prevail against it, though they roar, they cannot cross it.'


text:
They don't say to themselves, «Let's fear the Lord our God, who gives rain in its season, both the autumn and the spring rain. He sets aside for us the weeks appointed for the harvest.'


text:
"Evil men are found among my people. They lie in wait like someone who traps birds. They set a trap, but they do so to catch people. 


text:
Like a cage full of birds, so their houses are filled with treachery. This is how they have become prominent and rich, 


text:
and have grown fat and sleek. There is no limit <n>{Lit. pass over ; or transgress}</n> to their evil deeds. They don't argue the case of the orphan to secure <n>{Lit. win}</n> justice. They don't defend the rights of <n>{Lit. judge justly}</n> the poor. 


text:
«Should I not punish them for this? '<n>{Or punish these people}</n> asks the Lord. «Should I not avenge myself on a nation like this? '


text:
The prophets prophesy falsely, the priests rule by their own authority, and my people love it this way. But what will you do in the end?" 


text:
<n>{The Enemy Besieges Jerusalem}</n> d "Flee to safety, you people of Benjamin, leave Jerusalem. Sound the trumpet in Tekoa, and raise a signal over Beth-haccerem! For calamity and terrible destruction are turning toward you <n>{The Heb. lacks toward you}</n> from the north. 


text:
Shepherds and their flocks will come against her. They'll pitch their tents all around her, and every one will tend his flock in his own place. 


text:
Prepare for war against her. Get ready, let's attack at noon! How terrible for us that the day is coming to an end, <n>{Lit. is turning}</n> and that the evening shadows are lengthening. 


text:
<n>{Instructions for the Attackers}</n> d For this is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: "Cut down trees and set up siege works against Jerusalem. It is the city to be judged, and there is oppression throughout the entire city. <n>{Lit. through her}</n> 


text:
As a well keeps its waters fresh, <n>{Or cool}</n> so the city <n>{Lit. she}</n> keeps her wickedness fresh. <n>{Or cool}</n> Violence and destruction are heard in her, sickness and wounds are always before me. 


text:
Be warned, Jerusalem, or I'll be alienated from you. I'll make you desolate, a land not inhabited." 


text:
This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: "Let them glean the remnant of Israel as thoroughly as they would the vine. Pass your hand over them like grape gatherers over the branches. 


text:
To whom will I speak and give a warning so they'll listen? Look, their ears are closed, <n>{Lit. uncircumcised}</n> and they cannot hear. Look, this message from the Lord is contemptible to them; they don't delight in it. 


text:
I'm full of the wrath of the Lord , and I'm tired of holding it back. Pour it out on the children in the street and on the groups of young men gathered together. Indeed, both husband and wife will be caught in it, the old and the very old. 


text:
Their houses will be turned over to others their fields and wives together when I stretch out my hand against those who live in the land," declares the Lord . 


text:
"Indeed, from the least important to the most important, they're all greedy for dishonest gain. From prophet to priest, they all act deceitfully. 


text:
Were they ashamed because they did what was repugnant to God? <n>{Lit. committed an abomination}</n> They were not ashamed at all they don't even know how to blush! Therefore they'll fall with those who fall. When I punish them, they'll be brought down," says the Lord . 


text:
<n>{Israel Refuses to Repent}</n> d This is what the Lord says: "Stand beside the roads and watch. Ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is. Walk in it and find rest for yourselves. But they said, «We won't walk in it!'<n>{The Heb. lacks in it}</n> 


text:
I appointed watchmen over you. Listen for the sound of the trumpet. But they said, «We won't listen!'


text:
Therefore, hear, nations, and know, congregation, what will happen to them. <n>{Or what is among them}</n> 


text:
Listen, earth! I'm about to bring calamity on this people, on the fruit of their plans, because they didn't listen to my words and they rejected my instruction. <n>{Or Law}</n> 


text:
What good is frankincense that comes from Sheba <n>{I.e. Yemen}</n> to me, or sweet cane from a distant country? Your burnt offerings aren't acceptable, nor are your sacrifices pleasing to me." 


text:
Therefore, this is what the Lord says: "I'm about to put stumbling blocks in front of this people, and fathers and sons will stumble over them together. The neighbor and his friends will perish." 


text:
<n>{The Invaders from the North}</n> d This is what the Lord says: "Look, people are coming from a northern country. A great nation is stirring from the ends of the earth. 


text:
They grab bow and spear; they're cruel and show no mercy. Their sound roars like the sea as they ride on horses, deployed like men ready for battle against you, daughter of Zion." 


text:
We have heard the news about it, and our hands are limp. Distress has seized us like a woman in labor. 


text:
Don't go out into the field, and don't travel on the road, because the enemy has a sword, and terror is on every side. 


text:
Daughter of my people, put on sackcloth and roll in ashes. Mourn with bitter wailing, as one mourns at the death of <n>{The Heb. lacks at the death of}</n> an only son. For the destroyer will come on us suddenly. 


text:
<n>{People Rejected by the Lord}</n> d "I've made you an assayer <n>{I.e. one who tests metal for purity}</n> of my people, as well as <n>{The Heb. lacks as well as (cf. Jer 1:18)}</n> a fortress. You know how to test their way." 


text:
All of them are very rebellious, going around as slanderers. They're bronze and iron, and all of them are corrupt. 


text:
The bellows blow fiercely to consume the lead with the fire. The assayer <n>{Lit. He}</n> keeps on refining, but the impurities <n>{Or wicked}</n> aren't separated out. 


text:
<n>{Jeremiah's Temple Sermon: Judah's Idolatry}</n> d The message that came to Jeremiah from the Lord : 


text:
"Stand at the gate of the Lord's Temple and proclaim this message there. Say, «Listen to this message from the Lord , all you people of Judah who come through these gates to worship the Lord .»" 


text:
This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: "Change <n>{Lit. Make good}</n> your ways and your deeds, and I'll let you live in this place. 


text:
Don't trust deceptive words like these, and say, «The Temple of the Lord , the Temple of the Lord , the Temple of the Lord ,'


text:
but rather, truly change <n>{Lit. make good}</n> your ways and your deeds. If you truly practice justice between each person and his neighbor, 


text:
and if you don't oppress the alien, the orphan, and the widow, and don't shed an innocent person's blood in this place, and if you don't follow other gods to your own harm, <n>{Or disaster}</n> 


text:
Will you steal, murder, commit adultery, swear by false gods, burn incense to Baal, follow other gods that you don't know, 


text:
and then come to stand before me in this house that is called by my name and say, «We're delivered'so we can continue to do all these things that are repugnant to God? <n>{Lit. all these abominations}</n> 


text:
Has this house that is called by my name become a hideout <n>{Lit. cave}</n> for bandits in your eyes? Look, I'm watching," declares the Lord . 


text:
"Go to my place that was in Shiloh, where I first caused my name to dwell. See what I did to it because of the evil of my people Israel. 


text:
Now, because you have done all these things," declares the Lord , "I spoke to you over and over again, <n>{Lit. getting up early and speaking}</n> but you didn't listen. I called to you, but you didn't answer. 


text:
Just as I did to Shiloh, I'll do to the house in which you trust and which is called by my name, the place that I gave to you and your ancestors. 


text:
I'll cast you out of my sight, just as I cast out all your brothers, all the descendants of Ephraim. 


text:
"As for you, don't pray on behalf of this people, don't cry or offer a petition for them, and don't plead with me, for I won't listen to you. 


text:
The children gather wood, the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead dough to make cakes for the Queen of Heaven, <n>{I.e. the Near Eastern fertility goddess Ishtar}</n> and they pour out liquid offerings to other gods in order to provoke me. 


text:
Therefore, this is what the Lord God says: "I'm about to pour out my anger and my wrath on this place, on people and animals, on the trees of the field, and on the fruit of the ground. It will burn, and it won't be put out." 


text:
This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: "Add your burnt offerings to your sacrifices and eat the meat. 


text:
Indeed, when I brought your ancestors out of the land of Egypt, I didn't speak or command them about burnt offering and sacrifice, 


text:
but I did give them this command: <n>{Lit. I commanded them this word}</n> «Obey me and I'll be your God, and you will be my people. Walk in all the ways that I command you so it will go well for you.'


text:
But they didn't listen, <n>{Or obey}</n> nor did they pay attention. <n>{Lit. incline their ears}</n> They pursued their own plans, <n>{Lit. They walked in plans}</n> stubbornly following their own evil desires. <n>{Lit. following the stubbornness of their evil hearts}</n> They went backward and not forward. 


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From the day your ancestors left the land of Egypt to this present time, I've sent all my servants, the prophets, to you, again and again. <n>{Lit. daily getting up early and sending them}</n> 


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But they didn't listen to me, and they didn't pay attention. <n>{Lit. incline their ears}</n> They stiffened their necks, and they did more evil than their ancestors. 


text:
"You will tell them all these things, but they won't listen to you. You will call out to them, but they won't answer you. 


text:
You will say to them, «This is the nation that wouldn't listen to the voice <n>{I.e. wouldn't obey}</n> of the Lord its God and wouldn't accept correction. Truth has perished; it has been eliminated from their discussions.'


text:
"Cut off your hair and throw it away; let your lamentations rise on the barren heights, because the Lord has rejected and abandoned the generation that is subject to his wrath. <n>{Lit. generation of his wrath}</n> 


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"For the people of Judah have done evil in my eyes," declares the Lord . "They have put their detestable idols <n>{Lit. their detestable things}</n> in the house that is called by my name in order to defile it. 


text:
They have built high places at Topheth in the Valley of Ben-hinnom to burn their sons and daughters in the fire. I didn't command this, and it never entered my mind! 


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"Therefore, the time is near," declares the Lord , "when it will no longer be called Topheth or the Valley of Ben-hinnom, but the Valley of Slaughter. They'll bury in Topheth because there is no other <n>{The Heb. lacks other}</n> place to do it. <n>{The Heb. lacks to do it}</n> 


text:
The dead bodies of these people will be food for the birds of the sky and for the animals of the land, and no one will disturb them. 


text:
In the towns of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem I'll bring an end to the sound of gladness and rejoicing, to the sounds of the bridegroom and bride, for the land will become a wasteland." 


text:
"At that time," declares the Lord , "the bones of the king of Judah, the bones of his officials, the bones of the priests, the bones of the prophets, and the bones of the residents of Jerusalem will be removed from their graves. 


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They'll be spread out to the sun, the moon, and all the stars of the heavens, which they loved and served, <n>{Or worshipped}</n> and which they followed, consulted, and worshipped. Their bones <n>{Lit. They}</n> won't be collected, nor will they be buried. They'll be like dung on the surface of the ground. 


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"In all the places where the people <n>{Lit. they}</n> remain, where I've banished them, death will be chosen over life by all the remnant that remains of this evil family," declares the Lord of the Heavenly Armies. 


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<n>{A Stubborn People}</n> d "You are to say to them, «This is what the Lord says: "Will a person fall down and then not get up? Will someone turn away <n>{Or repent}</n> and then not turn back again? <n>{Or not repent}</n> 


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Why has this people turned away? <n>{Lit. people committed apostasy}</n> Why does Jerusalem continue in apostasy? They hold on to deceit and refuse to repent. 


text:
I've listened and I've heard, and what they say is not right. No one repents of his evil and says, «What have I done? '"They all turn to their own course like a horse racing into battle. 


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Even the stork in the sky knows its seasons, and the dove, the swallow, and the crane observe the time for migration. But my people don't know the requirements <n>{I.e. the behavior God expects of his people}</n> of the Lord . 


text:
How can you say, «We're wise, and the Law of the Lord is with us,'when, in fact, the deceitful pen of the scribe has made it into something that deceives. 


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The wise men will be put to shame. They'll be dismayed and taken captive. Look, they have rejected the message from the Lord ! So what kind of wisdom do they have? 


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Therefore, I'll give their wives to others, and their fields to new owners. Indeed, from the least important to the most important, they're all greedy for dishonest gain. From prophet to priest, they all act deceitfully. 


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They have treated my people's <n>{Lit. of the daughter of my people}</n> wound superficially, telling them, «Peace, peace,'when there is no peace. 


text:
Are they ashamed because they have done what is repugnant to God? <n>{Lit. committed an abomination}</n> They weren't ashamed at all; they don't even know how to blush! Therefore they'll fall with those who fall. When I punish them, they'll be brought down," says the Lord . 


text:
"I would have gathered them," declares the Lord , "but there were no grapes on the vine, and no figs on the fig tree, and their leaves were withered. What I've given them has been taken away."»" 


text:
<n>{The People Respond}</n> d Why are we sitting here? Join together! Let's go to the fortified cities and perish there! For the Lord our God has condemned us to perish and given us poisoned water to drink, because we have sinned against him. <n>{Lit. the LORD}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Lord's Warning}</n> d "The snorting of their horses is heard from Dan. At the neighing of their stallions, the whole earth quakes. They're coming to devour the land and all it contains, the city and all who live in it. 


text:
<n>{Jeremiah Mourns for His People}</n> d Incurable sorrow has overwhelmed me, my heart is sick within me. 


text:
Listen! My people <n>{Lit. the daughter of my people}</n> cry from a distant land: "Is the Lord no longer in Zion? Is her king no longer there?" <n>{The Lord Speaks}</n> d"Why did they provoke me to anger with their images, with their worthless foreign gods?" 


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<n>{The People Speak}</n> d The harvest is past, the summer has ended, and we haven't been delivered. 


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<n>{The Prophet Mourns}</n> d Because my people <n>{Lit. the daughter of my people}</n> are crushed, I'm crushed. I mourn, and dismay overwhelms me. 


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Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? So why is there no healing for my people? <n>{Lit. daughter of my people}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Lord's Sorrow for His People}</n> d <n>{Because this verse is 8:23 in MT, there is a one verse discrepancy between MT and the ISV throughout this chapter.}</n> "Oh, that my head were a spring of water, <n>{Lit. were waters}</n> and my eyes a fountain of tears, for then I would cry day and night for those of my people <n>{Lit. for the daughter of my people}</n> who have been killed. 


text:
Oh, that I had a lodging place for travelers in the desert, so that I could leave my people and go away from them. For all of them are adulterers, a band of traitors. 


text:
They use their tongues like a bow. Lies rather than truth fly throughout <n>{Lit. prevail in}</n> the land. They progress from one evil to another, and they don't know me," declares the Lord . 


text:
"Beware of your neighbors, and don't trust any of your relatives. For all of your relatives act deceitfully, and every friend goes around as a slanderer. 


text:
People deceive their friends, and they don't tell the truth. They have taught their tongues to tell lies. They exhaust themselves practicing evil. <n>{Or themselves with iniquity}</n> 


text:
You yourself live in the midst of deception, and because they are deceived they do not know me," declares the Lord . 


text:
Therefore, this is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: "Look, I'm about to refine and test them. Because they're my people, what else can I do? <n>{Lit. because of the daughter of my people}</n> 


text:
Their tongue is a deadly arrow that speaks deceit. With his mouth a person says, «Peace,'to his friend, but inwardly he sets a trap for him. 


text:
Should I not punish them for these things?" <n>{Or punish these people}</n> asks the Lord , "and should I not avenge myself on a nation like this?" 


text:
I'll weep and mourn for the mountains, and lament for the desert pastures, because they are desolate and no one passes through them. They don't hear the lowing of the cattle. Both the birds of the sky and the animals have fled. They're gone! 


text:
"I'll make Jerusalem a heap of ruins, a refuge for jackals. I'll make the towns of Judah desolate, without inhabitants." 


text:
<n>{The Reason for Judgment}</n> d Who is the wise person who understands this, and to whom has the Lord <n>{Lit. the mouth of the LORD}</n> spoken so that he may declare it? Why is the land destroyed, ruined like the desert, without anyone passing through it? 


text:
The Lord said, "It is because they have forsaken my Law that I gave them. They didn't obey me and didn't live according to it. 


text:
Instead, they followed their rebellious hearts and the Baals, <n>{I.e. images of the Canaanite storm god}</n> as their ancestors taught them." 


text:
Therefore, this is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: "Look, I'll make these people eat wormwood <n>{I.e. a bitter plant}</n> and drink poisoned water. 


text:
I'll scatter them among nations that neither they nor their ancestors have known, and I'll pursue them with the sword until I've finished them off." 


text:
<n>{A Call to Lament}</n> d This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: "Think about what I'm saying! <n>{The Heb. lacks about what I'm saying}</n> Indeed, call out the professional mourners! <n>{Lit. lamenting women}</n> Send for the best of them to come. 


text:
Let them hurry and lament for us. Let tears run down from our eyes, and let our eyelids flow with water. 


text:
For a sound of mourning is heard from Zion: «How we're ruined! Our shame is very great, because we have left the land, because our houses are torn down.»" 


text:
"Now, you women, hear the message from the Lord; listen to what he has to say! Teach your daughters how to mourn, let every woman teach <n>{The Heb. lacks teach}</n> her friend how to lament. 


text:
For death comes up through our windows; it has come into our palaces to eliminate children from the streets and young men from the town squares. 


text:
Speak! «This is what the Lord says: "The corpses of people will fall like dung on the surface of the field, and like a row of cut grain behind the harvester when there is no one to gather it."»" 


text:
<n>{True Wisdom and the Coming Judgment}</n> d This is what the Lord says: "The wise man is not to boast in his wisdom; the strong man is not to boast in his strength; and the rich man is not to boast in his riches. 


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Rather, let the one who boasts, boast in this: that he understands and knows me, for I am the Lord who acts with gracious love, justice, and righteousness in the land. I delight in these things," declares the Lord . 


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"Look, days are coming," declares the Lord , "when I'll punish all who are circumcised only in the flesh: <n>{Lit. circumcised of foreskin}</n> 


text:
Egypt, Judah, Edom, the people of Ammon, Moab, all those who live in the desert and shave the corners of their beard; <n>{Lit. cut off of side}</n> indeed all the other <n>{The Heb. lacks other}</n> nations that are uncircumcised, and all the house of Israel that is uncircumcised of heart." 


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<n>{The True God and Worthless Idols}</n> d Hear the message that the Lord has spoken to you, house of Israel. 


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This is what the Lord says: "Don't learn the way of the nations, and don't be terrified by signs in the heavens, though the nations are terrified of them. 


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For the practices <n>{Or customs, ordinances}</n> of the people are worthless. Indeed, a tree is cut down from the forest; it's the work of the hands of a craftsman <n>{Or engraver ; i.e. a wood carver}</n> with an ax. 


text:
Their idols <n>{Lit. They}</n> are like scarecrows in a cucumber field. They can't speak! They must always be carried because they can't walk! Don't be afraid of them because they can do no harm, nor can they do any good." 


text:
Who wouldn't fear you, king of the nations? This is what you deserve! Indeed, among all the wise men of the nations, and throughout all their kingdoms, there is no one like you! 


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Everyone is stupid <n>{I.e. like a beast}</n> and senseless. They follow worthless instruction from a piece of wood! <n>{Lit. it is worthless instruction from wood}</n> 


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Beaten silver is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz. The idols are <n>{Lit. It is}</n> the work of a craftsman <n>{Or engraver ; i.e. a wood carver}</n> and of the hands of a goldsmith. Their clothing is violet and purple. The idols <n>{Lit. They}</n> are all the work of skilled craftsmen. 


text:
The Lord is the true God; he's the living God and the everlasting king. At his wrath the earth quakes, and the nations cannot endure his indignation. 


text:
<n>{This verse is in Aramaic, the language the exiles would speak in Babylon.}</n> Tell this to them: "The gods who <n>{Lit. the one who}</n> didn't make the heavens and the earth will perish from the earth and from these heavens." 


text:
<n>{A Hymn of Praise to God}</n> d The Lord is <n>{The Heb. lacks The LORD is}</n> the one who made the world by his power, who established the earth by his wisdom and stretched out the heavens by his understanding. 


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When his voice sounds there is thunder from the waters of heaven, and he makes clouds rise up from the ends of the earth. He makes lightning for the rain and brings wind out of his storehouses. 


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Everyone is stupid <n>{I.e. like a beast}</n> and without knowledge. Every goldsmith is put to shame by his idols, for his images are false. <n>{Lit. deception}</n> There is no life <n>{Or breath}</n> in them. 


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They're worthless, a work of mockery, and when the time of punishment comes, <n>{Lit. at the time of their punishment}</n> they'll perish. 


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The Portion of Jacob <n>{I.e. The Portion of Jacob is a name for the Lord}</n> is not like these. He made everything, and Israel is the tribe of his inheritance. The Lord of the Heavenly Armies is his name. 


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<n>{The Coming Captivity of Judah}</n> d You who live under siege, Gather up your bundle <n>{I.e. your possessions}</n> from the ground. <n>{Or land}</n> 


text:
For this is what the Lord says: "I'm going to throw out the inhabitants of the land at this time, and I'll bring distress on them so they'll experience <n>{Lit. find}</n> it." 


text:
Woe is me because of my injury. My wound is severe. I said, "Truly this is my sickness, and I must bear it. 


text:
My tent is destroyed, and all my tent cords are broken. My sons have gone away from me, they no longer live. There is no one to pitch my tent again and set up my curtains. 


text:
Because the shepherds are stupid <n>{I.e. like a beast}</n> and don't seek <n>{Or inquire of}</n> the Lord , therefore, they don't prosper, and their flock is scattered. 


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The sound of a report, it's coming now! There is a great commotion from a land in the north to make the towns of Judah desolate, a refuge for jackals." 


text:
<n>{Jeremiah's Prayer}</n> d Lord , I know that a person's life is not his to control, <n>{Or does not belong to him}</n> nor does a person establish his way in life. <n>{Or step as he walks}</n> 


text:
Pour out your anger on the nations that don't acknowledge you, and on the families that don't call on your name. For they have devoured Jacob; they have devoured and consumed him; they have devastated his habitation. 


text:
"Listen to the words of this covenant, and convey them to the people of Judah and the residents of Jerusalem. 


text:
You are to say to them, «This is what the Lord God of Israel says: "Cursed is the person who does not listen to the words of this covenant 


text:
which I commanded to your ancestors on the day I brought them out of the land of Egypt, from the iron furnace. I said, «Obey me and do everything <n>{Lit. according to all}</n> that I commanded you. Then you will be my people and I'll be your God.'


text:
As a result, I'll fulfill the oath that I made with your ancestors to give them a land flowing with milk and honey, just as is the case today."»" Then I answered, "So be it, <n>{Heb. amen}</n> Lord ." 


text:
The Lord told me, "Proclaim all these words in the towns of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem. You are to say, «Listen to the words of this covenant and do them. 


text:
For I've diligently warned your ancestors from the day I brought them out of the land of Egypt until now, regularly warning them, <n>{Lit. getting up early and warning}</n> saying, "Obey me!" 


text:
But they would not listen or turn their ear, and each of them stubbornly followed his own evil desires. <n>{Lit. follow the stubbornness of their evil hearts}</n> So I brought on them all the consequences <n>{Lit. words}</n> of this covenant that I commanded them to fulfill, but they did not.»" 


text:
The Lord told me, "Conspiracy has been found among the people of Judah and the residents of Jerusalem. 


text:
They have turned back to the iniquities of their ancestors of old <n>{Lit. their first ancestors}</n> who refused to listen to my words. They followed other gods to serve them. The house of Israel and the house of Judah broke my covenant which I made with their ancestors." 


text:
Therefore, this is what the Lord says: "I'm about to bring disaster on them from which they won't be able to escape. They'll cry out to me, but I won't listen to them. 


text:
The towns of Judah and the residents of Jerusalem will go and cry out to the gods to whom they burn incense, but they'll be no help at all to them <n>{Or won't save them at all}</n> in the time of their disaster. 


text:
Judah, you have as many gods as you have towns, and you have set up as many altars to the shameful idols as there are streets in Jerusalem. You burn incense to Baal on these altars. 


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"Jeremiah, <n>{Lit. You}</n> don't pray for this people and don't cry or pray for them. I won't listen when they cry out to me because of their disaster. 


text:
"What right does my beloved have in my house, when she has carried out many evil schemes? Can sacrificial <n>{Lit. holy}</n> flesh turn disaster away from you, so you can rejoice?" 


text:
The Lord once called you a green olive tree, with beautiful shape and fruit. With a great roaring sound, he has set fire to it and its branches will be destroyed. 


text:
The Lord of the Heavenly Armies who planted you has called for disaster on you because of the evil of the house of Israel and the house of Judah, has provoked me by burning incense to Baal." 


text:
<n>{Jeremiah's Life is Threatened}</n> d The Lord made it known to me, and so I understood. Then you showed me their malicious deeds. 


text:
I was like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter. I didn't know that they had devised schemes against me. They told themselves, <n>{The Heb. lacks They told themselves}</n> "Let's destroy the tree with its fruit. Let's eliminate him from the land of the living, so his name won't be remembered again." 


text:
Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the righteous judge, the one who tests feelings and the heart, let me see your vengeance on them, for I've committed my cause to you. 


text:
Therefore, this is what the Lord says about the men of Anathoth who seek to kill you, all the while threatening you, "Don't prophesy in the name of the Lord so you won't die by our hand!" 


text:
Therefore, this is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: "I'm about to punish them. The young men will die by the sword. Their sons and daughters will die by famine. 


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Not one of them will be left, <n>{Lit. A remnant won't be to them}</n> for I'll bring disaster on the men of Anathoth when I punish them." 


text:
<n>{Jeremiah's Complaint about Justice}</n> d You are righteous, Lord , even when I bring a complaint to you. But I want to discuss justice with you. Why does the way of the wicked prosper, while all who are treacherous are at ease? 


text:
You plant them and they take root, they grow and bear fruit. "You are near to us," they say with their mouths, but the truth is that you're far from their hearts. 


text:
You know me, Lord . You see me and test my thoughts <n>{Or heart}</n> toward you. Pull the wicked <n>{Lit. them}</n> out like sheep for slaughter; set them apart for the day of butchering. <n>{Or killing}</n> 


text:
How long will the land mourn and the vegetation of every field dry up? Because of the wickedness of those who live in it, animals and birds are swept away. For they say, "He does not see our future." 


text:
<n>{God's Reply to Jeremiah}</n> d Indeed, if you run with others on foot, and they tire you out, how can you compete with horses? You are secure <n>{Or You trust}</n> in a land at peace, but how will you do in the thicket of the Jordan? 


text:
Indeed, even your brothers and your father's family conspire against you. Even they cry out after you loudly. Don't believe them, even though they speak friendly words to you. 


text:
I'll forsake my house, I'll abandon my inheritance. I'll give the beloved of my heart into the hand of her enemies. 


text:
Is my inheritance like a speckled bird of prey to me? Are the other <n>{The Heb. lacks other}</n> birds of prey all around her coming against her? Go, gather all the wild animals and bring them to devour it. 


text:
Many shepherds will destroy my vineyard. They'll trample down my portion. They'll turn my pleasant portion into a desolate desert. 


text:
They'll make it into a desolate place, and, desolate, it will cry out in mourning to me. The whole land will be desolate because no one takes it to heart. 


text:
On all the barren heights in the desert destroyers will come. Indeed, a sword of the Lord will devour from one end of the land to the other. There will be no peace <n>{Or safety}</n> for any person. <n>{Lit. for all flesh}</n> 


text:
They have sown wheat, but they have harvested thorns. They have tired themselves out, but they don't show a profit. Now be disappointed about your harvest because of the fierce anger of the Lord . 


text:
<n>{God's Word about Judah's Neighbors}</n> d This is what the Lord says about all the wicked neighbors who strike out against the land <n>{Lit. inheritance}</n> I've given to my people Israel as their inheritance: <n>{Lit. to inherit}</n> "I'm about to uproot them from their land, and I'll uproot the house of Judah from among them. 


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After I've uprooted them, I'll again have compassion on them. I'll return each one of them to his inheritance, and each one to his own land. 


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If they have learned the ways of my people well, to swear by my name: «As surely as the Lord lives,'just as they once taught my people to swear by Baal, then they'll be built up among my people. 


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But if they don't listen, then I'll completely uproot that nation and destroy it," declares the Lord . 


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<n>{Jeremiah's Linen Belt}</n> d This is what the Lord told me: "Go and buy a linen belt for yourself, and put it around your waist. <n>{Or loins}</n> But don't let it get wet." 


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Take the belt that you bought and that is around your waist. Get up and go to the Euphrates, <n>{Or Perath}</n> and hide it there in a crevice in the rock." 


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After a long time, <n>{Lit. At the end of many days}</n> the Lord told me, "Arise, go to the Euphrates, <n>{Or Perath}</n> and get the belt that I commanded you to hide there." 


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I went to the Euphrates and dug it up. I got the belt from the place where I had hidden it. The belt was ruined! It was not good for anything. 


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"This is what the Lord says: «In the same way I'll ruin the pride of Judah and the pride of Jerusalem. 


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This evil people that refuses to listen to my words, that stubbornly pursues their own desires, <n>{Lit. that walks in the stubbornness of their hearts}</n> and that follows other gods to serve and worship them, will be like this belt that is not good for anything. 


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For just as the belt clings tightly to a person's waist, so I've made all the people <n>{Lit. house}</n> of Israel and all the people <n>{Lit. house}</n> of Judah cling tightly to me,'declares the Lord . «I did this <n>{The Heb. lacks I did this}</n> so that they would be my people, name, praise, and glory. But they wouldn't listen.'


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<n>{The Wineskins}</n> d "This is what you're to tell them: «This is what the Lord God of Israel says: "Every wineskin is to be filled with wine."'When they say to you, «Don't we know very well that every wineskin is to be filled with wine? ', 


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then say to them, «This is what the Lord says: "I'm about to make all the inhabitants of this land drunk the kings who sit on David's throne, the priests, the prophets, and all the residents of Jerusalem. 


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I'll smash them against each other, even fathers against their sons," <n>{Lit. fathers and sons together}</n> declares the Lord . "I'll have no pity, mercy, or compassion when I destroy them."»" 


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Give glory to the Lord your God before he brings darkness, before your feet stumble on the mountains at twilight. You hope for light, but he turns it into deep darkness. He changes it into heavy gloom. 


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If you don't listen, I'll cry secretly because of your pride. My eyes will cry bitterly, flowing tears, because the Lord's flock has been taken captive. 


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Say to the king and the queen mother, <n>{I.e. the king's mother}</n> "Come take a lowly seat, because your beautiful crowns have fallen off your heads." 


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The towns in the Negev <n>{I.e. the southern regions of the Sinai peninsula; cf. Josh 10:40}</n> will be closed up, and there will be no one to open them. All Judah will be taken into exile and be completely exiled. 


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"Look up and see those who are coming from the north. Where is the flock that was given to you your beautiful sheep? 


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What will you say when the Lord <n>{Lit. he}</n> appoints over you as your head those whom you taught to be your allies? <n>{I.e. the Babylonians}</n> Pain will seize you like that seizing a woman about to give birth, will it not? 


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When you say to yourselves, «Why have all these things happened to me? 'It's because of the extent of your iniquity that your skirt has been lifted up, and your heels have suffered violence. <n>{I.e. you have been violated}</n> 


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Can an Ethiopian change his skin, or a leopard his spots? Then you who are trained to do evil will also be able to do good. 


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"This is your fate, the portion I've measured out for you," declares the Lord , "because you have forgotten me and have trusted in false gods. <n>{Or deception}</n> 


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I've seen your detestable behavior: your adulteries, your passionate neighing, your lewd immorality on the hills in the field. How terrible it will be for you, Jerusalem! You are unclean. How much longer will this go on?" 


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<n>{A Terrible Drought in the Land}</n> d This is <n>{The Heb. lacks This is}</n> this message from the Lord that came <n>{The Heb. lacks that came}</n> to Jeremiah concerning the drought: 


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"Judah mourns, and her gates languish. The people <n>{Lit. They}</n> mourn for the land, and the cry of Jerusalem goes up. 


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Their nobles send their young people for water. They go to the cisterns, but they find no water. They return with their vessels empty. They're disappointed <n>{Or ashamed}</n> and dismayed, and they cover their heads in shame. <n>{The Heb. lacks in shame}</n> 


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The ground is cracked, because there has been no rain in the land. The farmers are disappointed, <n>{Or ashamed}</n> and they cover their heads in shame. <n>{The Heb. lacks in shame}</n> 


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Even the doe in the field gives birth and then abandons her young <n>{The Heb. lacks her young}</n> because there is no grass. 


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Wild donkeys stand on the barren hills. They pant for air like jackals. Their eyesight fails because there is no vegetation." 


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<n>{The People Cry for Help}</n> d Lord , even though our iniquities testify against us, do something for the sake of your name. Indeed, our apostasies are many, and we have sinned against you. 


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Hope of Israel, its deliverer in time of trouble, why are you like a stranger <n>{Or resident alien}</n> in the land, like a traveler who sets up his tent for a night? 


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Why are you like a man taken by surprise, like a strong man who can't deliver? You are among us, Lord , and your name is the one by which we're called. Don't abandon us! 


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<n>{God Responds to the Prophet}</n> d This is what the Lord says to these people: "Yes, they do love to wander, and they haven't restrained their feet. So the Lord won't accept them now. He will remember their iniquity and punish their sin." 


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Although they fast, I won't listen to their cry, and although they offer burnt offerings and grain offerings, I won't accept them. Instead, I'll put an end to them with the sword, with famine, and with a plague." 


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Then I said, "Ah, Lord GOD, look! The prophets are saying to them, «You won't see the sword and you won't experience famine. Rather, I'll give you lasting peace in this place.»" 


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Then the Lord told me, "The prophets are prophesying lies <n>{Or deception}</n> in my name. I didn't send them, I didn't command them, and I didn't speak to them. They're proclaiming <n>{Lit. prophesying}</n> to you false visions, worthless predictions, <n>{or divination}</n> and the delusions of their own minds. 


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Therefore, this is what the Lord says about the false prophets who prophesy in my name, «There will be no sword and famine in this land'(though I haven't sent them): «By the sword and by famine these prophets will be finished off! 


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The people to whom they have prophesied will be thrown out into the streets of Jerusalem because of the famine and the sword. There will be no one to bury them, their wives, their sons, or their daughters. I'll pour out on them the <n>{Lit. their}</n> judgment they deserve.»" <n>{The Heb. lacks they deserve}</n> 


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"And deliver <n>{Lit. speak}</n> this message to them: «Let tears run down my face, <n>{Lit. Let my eyes run down with tears}</n> night and day, and don't let them stop, because my virgin daughter my people will be broken with a powerful blow, with a severe wound. 


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If I go out into the field, I see those slain by the sword! If I go into the city, I see the ravages of the famine! Indeed, both prophet and priest ply their trade in the land, but they don't know anything.»" <n>{The Heb. lacks anything}</n> 


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<n>{The People Plead to the Lord}</n> d Have you completely rejected Judah? Do you despise Zion? Why have you struck us, so that there is no healing for us? We hoped for peace, but no good came, for a time of healing, but there was only terror. 


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We acknowledge, Lord , our wickedness, the guilt of our ancestors. Indeed, we have sinned against you. 


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For the sake of your name <n>{I.e. your reputation}</n> don't despise us. Don't dishonor your glorious throne. Remember, don't break your covenant with us! 


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Can any of the worthless gods of the nations make it rain? Can the heavens themselves bring forth showers? Aren't you the one who does this, <n>{The Heb. lacks who does this}</n> Lord our God? So we hope in you, for you are the one who does all these things. 


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<n>{The Destiny of the Judged}</n> d Then the Lord told me, "Even if Moses and Samuel were standing before me, I wouldn't be favorably disposed toward this people. Send them out of my presence! Let them go! 


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"When they say to you, «Where can we go? ', say to them, «This is what the Lord says: "Those destined for death, to death will go; <n>{The Heb. lacks will go}</n> those destined for the sword, to the sword will go; <n>{The Heb. lacks will go}</n> and those destined for captivity, to captivity will go. <n>{The Heb. lacks will go}</n> 


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"I'll appoint four kinds of judgment for them," declares the Lord : "the sword to kill, the dogs to drag off, the birds of the sky to devour, and the animals of the land to destroy. 


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I'll make them a horrifying sight to all the kingdoms of the earth because of what Hezekiah's son Manasseh, king of Judah, did in Jerusalem. 


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"Who will have pity on you, Jerusalem, and who will grieve for you? Who will go out of his way to ask about your welfare? 


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You have deserted me," declares the Lord . "You keep going backward. I'll reach out my hand and destroy you. I'm tired of showing compassion. 


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I'll winnow <n>{Winnowing is the process of separating husks from the grain.}</n> them with a winnowing fork in the gates of the land. I'll make them childless. I'll destroy my people, for they didn't change their ways. 


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I'll make their <n>{Lit. her}</n> widows more numerous than the sand of the sea. At noontime I'll send a destroyer against the mother <n>{Lit. send against them}</n> of a young man. I'll cause terror and anguish to come to her unexpectedly. 


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"The woman who gave birth to seven will grow faint, her life will expire. Her sun will set while it's still day. She will be disgraced and humiliated. I'll kill the rest of them with swords in the presence of their enemies," declares the Lord . 


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<n>{Jeremiah's Complaint}</n> d How terrible for me, my mother, that you gave birth to me, a man of strife and contention for the whole land! I've neither lent nor borrowed, yet everyone curses me. 


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<n>{God's Answer to Jeremiah's Complaint}</n> d The Lord said, "Have I not set you free for a good purpose? Have I not intervened for you with your enemies in times of trouble and times of distress? 


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"I'll give away your wealth and your treasures as plunder, for free, because of all your sins throughout your territory. 


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I'll make you serve your enemies in a land you don't know, for my anger has started a fire that will burn against you." 


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<n>{Jeremiah's Revised Complaint}</n> d You are aware Lord , remember me, pay attention to me, and vindicate me in front of those who pursue me. You are patient don't take me away. Know that I suffer insult because of you! 


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Your words were found, and I consumed them. Your words were joy and my hearts delight, because I bear your name, <n>{Lit. your name is called on me}</n> Lord God of the Heavenly Armies. 


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I didn't sit in the company of those who have fun, and I didn't rejoice. Because of your hand on me, <n>{The Heb. lacks on me}</n> I sat alone, for you filled me with indignation. 


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Why is my pain unending and my wound incurable, refusing to be healed? <n>{God's Answer to Jeremiah's Revised Complaint}</n> d You are like a deceptive brook, whose waters cannot be depended on. 


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Therefore, this is what the Lord says: "If you repent, I'll take you back and you will stand before me. If you speak what is worthwhile, <n>{Lit. if worthwhile things come out}</n> instead of what is worthless, then you will be my spokesman. <n>{Lit. my mouth}</n> People <n>{Lit. They}</n> will turn to you, but you aren't to turn to them. 


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I'll make you a fortified wall of bronze to this people. They'll fight against you, but they won't prevail against you, for I am with you to save you and deliver you," 


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For this is what the Lord says about the sons and daughters who are born in this place, about their mothers who give birth to them, and about their fathers who father them in this land: 


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"They'll die of deadly diseases. People won't mourn for them, nor will they be buried. They'll be dung on the surface of the ground, and they'll come to an end with the sword and with famine. Their dead bodies will be food for the birds of the sky and the animals of the land." 


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For this is what the Lord says: "Don't go to a house where there is mourning, don't go to lament, nor to express sorrow to them. For I've taken my peace away from this people," declares the Lord , "as well as gracious love and compassion. 


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Both the most and the least important people <n>{Lit. great and small ; i.e. adults and children}</n> will die in this land, and they won't be buried. People won't mourn for them. They won't cut themselves, <n>{A Canaanite mourning practice forbidden by Deut. 14:1}</n> nor will they shave their heads for them. <n>{A common mourning practice in the ancient world}</n> 


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They won't break bread <n>{The Heb. lacks bread}</n> for the mourner to be consoled for the dead. They won't give anyone the cup of consolation to drink for his father or <n>{The Heb. lacks father or}</n> mother. 


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For this is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: "In this place I'm about to bring an end to the sounds of happiness and rejoicing, the sounds of the bridegroom and the bride. I'll do it in front of your eyes and in your time. 


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"When you speak all these words to this people, they'll say to you, «Why has the Lord pronounced all this disaster against us? What is our iniquity, and what is the sin that we have committed against the Lord our God? '


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Then say to them, «It is because your ancestors abandoned me,'declares the Lord . «They followed other gods, served them, worshipped them, abandoned me, and didn't keep my Law. 


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You have done even more evil than your ancestors, and each one of you is stubbornly following his own evil desires, <n>{Lit. following the stubbornness of their evil heart}</n> refusing to listen to me. 


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I'll throw you out of this land into a land neither you nor your ancestors have known. There you will serve other gods day and night, and I'll show you no favor.'


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"Therefore, days are coming," declares the Lord , "when it will no longer be said, «As surely as the Lord lives, who brought up the Israelis from the land of Egypt.'


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Rather it will be said, «As surely as the Lord lives, who brought the Israelis up from the land of the north and from all the lands to which the Lord <n>{Lit. he}</n> had banished them.'I'll bring them back to their land, which I gave to their ancestors. 


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"I'm about to send many fishermen," declares the Lord , "and they'll catch them. Afterwards, I'll send for many hunters and they'll hunt for them on every mountain and hill and in the crevices of the rocks. 


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For I am watching all their ways; they are not hidden from my sight. <n>{Lit. from before me}</n> Their iniquity is not concealed from my eyes. 


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First I'll repay them double for their iniquity and their sin, because they have polluted my land with the dead bodies of their detestable images, and they have filled my inheritance with their abominations." <n>{Or their abominable idols}</n> 


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Lord , my strength and my stronghold, my refuge in a time of difficulty, to you the nations will come, and from the ends of the earth they'll say, "Surely our ancestors inherited deception, <n>{I.e. false gods or idols}</n> things that are worthless, and in which there is no profit." 


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Therefore, I'm about to make them understand; this time I'll make them understand my power and strength, so they'll understand that my name is the Lord . 


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<n>{Judah's Sin and Its Consequence}</n> d The sin of Judah is engraved with an iron stylus. It is inscribed with a diamond point on the tablet of their heart and on the horns of their <n>{Lit. your}</n> altars. 


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When their sons remember, they remember their altars <n>{Lit. it is their altars}</n> and their Asherah poles <n>{I.e. sacred poles representing the goddess Asherah}</n> beside green trees on the high hills. 


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My mountain in the field, your wealth and your treasures I'll give as spoil; along with your high places as the price of your sin throughout your territory. 


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You will let go of your inheritance which I gave you, and I'll make you serve your enemies in a land that you don't know. For with my anger you have started a fire that will burn forever. 


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<n>{Two Ways Contrasted}</n> d This is what the Lord says: "Cursed is the person who trusts in mankind, who makes flesh his strength, and whose heart turns away from the Lord . 


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He will be like a bush in the desert, and he won't see when good comes. He will dwell in parched places in the wilderness, <n>{Or desert}</n> a land of salt, without inhabitants. 


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He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by a stream. He won't fear when the heat comes, and his leaves will be green. In a year of drought he won't be concerned, nor will he stop producing fruit." 


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<n>{The Deceitfulness of the Human Heart}</n> d "The heart is more deceitful than anything. It is incurable who can know it? 


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I am the Lord who searches the heart, who tests the inner depths to give to each person according to what he deserves, <n>{Lit. according to his way}</n> according to the fruit of his deeds. 


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As a partridge gathers together eggs that it didn't lay, so is a person who amasses wealth unjustly. In the middle of his life <n>{Lit. at half of his days}</n> it will leave him, and in the end he will prove to be a fool. 


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<n>{The Lord : The Hope of Israel}</n> d A glorious throne exalted from the beginning is the place of our sanctuary. 


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Lord , you are the hope of Israel; all who forsake you will be put to shame. Those who turn aside from you <n>{Lit. me}</n> will be written in the dust, <n>{Or recorded in the underworld}</n> because they have forsaken the Lord , the spring of living water. 


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<n>{The Prophet's Call for Help and Justice}</n> d Heal me, Lord , and I'll be healed; deliver me, and I'll be delivered, because you are my praise. 


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I haven't run away from being your shepherd, <n>{Lit. from shepherding after you}</n> and I haven't longed for the day of sickness. <n>{I.e. the day of judgment}</n> You know what comes out from my lips, it's open before you. <n>{Lit. it is in front of you}</n> 


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Let those who pursue me be put to shame, but don't put me to shame. Let them be terrified, but don't let me be terrified. Bring the day of judgment <n>{Or disaster}</n> on them, and destroy them with double destruction! 


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<n>{A Test Case: Keeping the Sabbath}</n> d The Lord told me, "Go, stand in the gate of the people, <n>{Lit. gate of the sons of the people}</n> where the kings of Judah come in and go out, and in the other gates of Jerusalem as well. 


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Say to them, «Kings of Judah, all Judah, and all the residents of Jerusalem entering these gates, hear this message from the Lord . 


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This is what the Lord says: "Be careful! On the Sabbath day, don't carry any load or bring anything through the gates of Jerusalem. 


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Don't bring any load out of your houses on the Sabbath day, nor are you to do any work. You are to consecrate <n>{I.e. set it apart}</n> the Sabbath day, just as I commanded your ancestors. 


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But they didn't listen, nor did they pay attention. <n>{Lit. incline the ear}</n> They were determined <n>{Lit. stiffened their necks}</n> not to listen and not to accept instruction. <n>{Or discipline}</n> 


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If you listen to me carefully," declares the Lord , "and don't bring a load through the gates of this city on the Sabbath day, and you consecrate the Sabbath day and don't do any work on it, 


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then kings and princes, sitting on the throne of David will come through the gates of this city. They, their princes, the men of Judah, and the residents of Jerusalem will come riding in chariots and on horses, and this city will be inhabited forever. 


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They'll come from the cities of Judah, from the places around Jerusalem, from the territory of Benjamin, from the Shephelah, <n>{I.e. the verdant central lowlands of Israel; cf. Josh 10:40}</n> from the hill country, and from the Negev, <n>{I.e. the southern regions of the Sinai peninsula; cf. Josh 10:40}</n> bringing burnt offerings, sacrifices, grain offerings, and incense, and bringing thanksgiving offerings to the Lord's Temple. 


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But if you don't listen to me, to consecrate the Sabbath day and not carry any load as you enter the gates of Jerusalem on the Sabbath day, then I'll start a fire in its gates. It will consume the palaces of Jerusalem and won't be extinguished."»" 


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<n>{The Potter's House and the Ruined Vessel}</n> d The message that came to Jeremiah from the Lord : 


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But the vessel he was working on with the clay was ruined in the potter's hand. So he remade it into another vessel that seemed appropriate to him. 


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"Israel, can't I deal with you like this potter?" declares the Lord . "Look, Israel, like clay in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand. 


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But if that nation about which I spoke turns from its evil way, I'll change my mind about the disaster that I had planned for it. 


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But if that nation does evil in my eyes by not obeying me, I'll change my mind about the good that I said I would bring on it. 


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"Now say to the people of Judah and to the residents of Jerusalem, «This is what the Lord says: "Look, I'm designing a disaster just for you, and I'm making plans against you. Each one of you must repent from his evil way. Make your ways and deeds right."'


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But they'll say, «It's useless! We will follow our plans and each of us will pursue his own evil desires.'<n>{Lit. will do the stubbornness of his evil heart}</n> 


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"Therefore, this is what the Lord says: «Ask the nations. Who has ever heard of anything like this? You have done a most horrible thing, virgin Israel. 


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Does the snow of Lebanon ever vanish from its rocky slopes? <n>{Or Do rocks ever leave the slopes, or the snow from Lebanon?}</n> Or does the cold water from a foreign land ever cease to flow? 


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Yet my people have forgotten me, and they burn incense to worthless idols that make them stumble in their journey on the ancient paths. They walk on trails, on a way that is not built up. 


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They make their land into a desolate place, an object of lasting scorn. <n>{Lit. hissing}</n> All who pass by will be appalled and will shake their heads. <n>{I.e. in surprise at the magnitude of the destruction}</n> 


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«Like the east wind, I'll scatter them before the enemy. I'll show them my back and not my face, on the day of their downfall.»" 


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<n>{Jeremiah Reacts to the Plot against Him}</n> d Then they said, "Come, let's make up a plot against Jeremiah. After all, the priest's instruction, the wise man's counsel, and the prophet's message won't be destroyed. <n>{Lit. perish}</n> So let's verbally attack him. Pay no attention to anything he says!" 


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Should good be repaid with evil? Yet they have dug a pit to take my life. <n>{Or a pit for me}</n> Remember! I stood before you and spoke good on their behalf in order to turn your wrath away from them. 


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Therefore, make their children undergo famine, and deliver them over to death in time of war. <n>{Lit. to the power of the sword.}</n> May their women be childless widows! May their men be slaughtered! <n>{Lit. killed dead}</n> May their young men be slain by the sword in battle! 


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Let a cry be heard from their houses because you have brought a raiding party against them suddenly. For they have dug a pit to capture me and have set <n>{Or hidden}</n> traps for my feet. 


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But you, Lord , know all their plots to kill me. Don't forgive their iniquity, and don't erase their sin from your sight. Let them stumble before you. When it's time for you to be angry, act against them! 


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<n>{The Lesson of the Broken Jug}</n> d This is what the Lord says: "Go and buy a potter's clay jug. Take along <n>{The Heb. lacks along}</n> some of the elders of the people and some of the elders of the priests. 


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Go out to the Valley of Hinnom <n>{Lit. Valley of Hinnom's son}</n> at the entrance to the Potsherd Gate, and there proclaim the words that I'm telling you. 


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"You are to say, «Hear this message from the Lord , you kings of Judah and residents of Jerusalem! «This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: "I'm about to bring a disaster on this place that will make the ears of all who hear about it tingle. 


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For they have forsaken me and have treated this place as foreign. In it they have burned incense to other gods that neither they, their ancestors, nor the kings of Judah knew. They have also filled this place with the blood of innocent people. 


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They built the high places <n>{I.e. the places where Canaanite gods were worshipped}</n> for Baal to burn their children in the fire as a burnt offering to Baal something I didn't command, didn't say, nor did it ever enter my mind! 


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"Therefore, days are coming," declares the Lord , "when this place will no longer be called Topheth, or the Valley of Hinnom, but rather the Valley of Slaughter. 


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I'll shatter <n>{Or nullify ; MT word for shatter sounds like MT word for jug in v. 1}</n> the counsel of Judah and Jerusalem in this place, and I'll make them fall by the sword before their enemies and at the hands of those seeking their lives. I'll give their dead bodies as food to the birds of the sky and to the animals of the land. 


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I'll make this city into a desolate place and an object of scorn. <n>{Lit. hissing}</n> All who pass by it will be astonished and will scoff <n>{Lit. hiss ; i.e. hissing was an expression of contempt}</n> because of all its wounds. 


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I'll cause them to eat the flesh of their sons and daughters, <n>{Lit. sons and the flesh of their daughters}</n> and people will eat the flesh of their neighbors in the siege and in the distress to which their enemies and those seeking their lives will subject them."»" 


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and say to them, «This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: "In this same way I'll break this people and this city, just as someone breaks a potter's vessel which he then cannot put back together again. They'll bury corpses <n>{The Heb. lacks corpses}</n> in Topheth until there is no more room to bury anyone. <n>{The Heb. lacks anyone}</n> 


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This is what I'll do to this place and its residents," declares the Lord , "making this city like Topheth. 


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The houses of Jerusalem and the houses of the kings of Judah will be polluted like Topheth, as will be all the houses on whose roofs people <n>{Lit. they}</n> burned incense to all the host of heaven and poured out liquid offerings to other gods."»" 


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Then Jeremiah went from Topheth where the Lord had sent him to prophesy. He stood in the courtyard of the Lord's Temple, saying to all the people, 


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"This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: «I'm about to bring on this city and all its towns all the disaster that I declared against it because they were determined <n>{Lit. they stiffened their neck}</n> not to obey my message.»" 


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<n>{Jeremiah Denounced}</n> d When the priest Pashhur, Immer's son, who was the officer in charge <n>{Lit. the Nagid ; i.e. a senior officer entrusted with dual roles of operational oversight and administrative authority}</n> of the Lord's Temple heard Jeremiah prophesying these words, 


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Pashhur struck Jeremiah the prophet and put him in the stocks that were at the upper Benjamin Gate of the Temple. 


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The next day, Pashhur released Jeremiah from the stocks, and Jeremiah told him, "The Lord has not named you Pashhur, but rather Magor-missabib. <n>{The Heb. name Magor-missabib means terror on every side ; cf. v. 10}</n> 


text:
For this is what the Lord says: «Look, I'm going to make you a terror to yourself and to all your loved ones. They'll fall by the sword of their enemies, and your eyes will see it. I'll give all Judah into the hand of the king of Babylon. He will take them into exile to Babylon, and he will execute them with swords. 


text:
I'll turn over all the wealth of this city, all its possessions, all its valuables, and all the treasures of the kings of Judah right into the hands of their enemies, and they'll plunder them, capture them, and take them to Babylon. 


text:
You, Pashhur, and all those living in your house will go into captivity. You will go to Babylon and there you will die. There you and all your loved ones <n>{Or friends, colleagues}</n> to whom you have falsely prophesied will be buried.»" 


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<n>{Jeremiah's Complaint to the Lord}</n> d You deceived me, Lord , and I've been deceived. You overpowered me, and you prevailed. I've become a laughing stock all day long, and everyone mocks me. 


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Indeed, as often as I speak, I cry out, and shout, "Violence and destruction!" For this message from the Lord has caused me constant <n>{Lit. all day long}</n> reproach and derision. 


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When I say, "I won't remember the Lord <n>{Lit. him}</n> , nor will I speak in his name anymore, then there is this burning fire in my heart. It is bound up in my bones, I grow weary of trying to hold it in, and I cannot do it! 


text:
Indeed, I hear many people whispering, "Terror on every side. <n>{I.e. in mockery of the prophet's statement Magor-missabib in v. 3}</n> Denounce him, let's denounce him!" All my close friends watch my steps and say, "Perhaps he will be deceived, and we can prevail against him and take vengeance on him." 


text:
But the Lord is with me like a fearsome warrior. Therefore, those who pursue me will stumble and won't prevail. They'll be put to great shame, when they don't succeed. Their everlasting disgrace won't be forgotten. 


text:
Lord of the Heavenly Armies, who tests the righteous, who sees the inner motives <n>{Lit. the liver}</n> and the heart, let me see you take vengeance on them, for I've committed my case to you. 


text:
Sing to the Lord , give praise to the Lord ! For he saves the life of the poor from the hand of the wicked. 


text:
<n>{Jeremiah Curses the Day of His Birth}</n> d Let the day on which I was born be cursed. Don't let the day on which my mother gave birth to me be blessed. 


text:
Cursed is the person who brought the good news to my father, "A baby boy has been born to you," making him very happy. 


text:
May that man be like the cities that the Lord overthrew without compassion. Let him hear a cry in the morning, and a battle cry at noon, 


text:
because he didn't kill me in the womb, so that my mother would have been my grave and her womb forever pregnant. 


text:
Why did I ever come out of the womb to see trouble and sorrow, and to finish my life living in shame? 


text:
<n>{Zedekiah's Request for a Miracle}</n> d The message that came to Jeremiah from the Lord when King Zedekiah sent to him Malchijah's son Pashhur and Maaseiah's son Zephaniah the priest: 


text:
Please inquire of the Lord on our behalf, for Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon is fighting against us. Perhaps the Lord will do some of his miraculous acts <n>{Lit. according to all his miraculous acts}</n> for us, and Nebuchadnezzar <n>{Lit. he}</n> will depart from us." 


text:
«This is what the Lord God of Israel says: "I'm about to turn against you the weapons of war that are in your hands and with which you are fighting the king of Babylon and the Chaldeans who are besieging you outside the walls. I'll gather them into the center of this city. 


text:
Because of my anger, wrath, and great fury, I'll fight against you myself with an outstretched hand and a strong arm. 


text:
I'll strike down the residents of this city, both people and animals, and they'll die from a terrible plague. 


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Afterwards," declares the Lord , "I'll give King Zedekiah of Judah, his officials, <n>{Or servants}</n> and the people those who are left in this city from the plague, the sword, and the famine into the control of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, right into the hand of their enemies and the hand of those who want to kill them. He'll execute them with swords and won't pity them. He won't spare them, nor will he have compassion on them."'


text:
"You are to say to this people, «This is what the Lord says: "I'm about to set before you the way of life and the way of death. 


text:
Whoever stays in this city will die by the sword, by famine, and by the plague. But whoever goes out and surrenders to the Chaldeans who are besieging you will live. He will save his life as a spoil of war. <n>{I.e. his life will be spared}</n> 


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Indeed, I'm firmly decided I'm sending calamity to this city, not good," declares the Lord . "It will be given into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he will set it on fire."'


text:
<n>{The Guilt of Judah's King}</n> d "To the house of the king of Judah say, «Hear this message from the Lord . 


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This is what the Lord says, house of David: "Judge appropriately every morning, and deliver those who have been robbed from the oppressor, so my anger does not break out like fire and burn with no one to put it out because of your evil deeds. 


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"Look, I'm against you, city dwelling in the valley, rock of the plain," declares the Lord , "those of you who say, «Who can come down against us and who can enter our habitations? '


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But I'll punish you according to what you have done," <n>{Lit. to the fruit of your deeds}</n> declares the Lord . "I'll start a fire in her forest, and it will consume everything around her."»" 


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<n>{Instructions for the Kings of Judah}</n> d This is what the Lord says: "Go down to the house of the king of Judah and tell him this: 


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«Listen to this message from the Lord , king of Judah, you who sit on the throne of David you, your officials, <n>{Or your servants}</n> and your people who enter these gates. 


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This is what the Lord says: "Uphold justice and righteousness. Deliver from their oppressor those who have been robbed. Don't mistreat or do violence to the alien, the orphan, or the widow, or shed the blood of innocent people in this place. 


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Rather, carefully obey this message, <n>{Or do this thing}</n> and then kings sitting for David on his throne and riding in chariots and on horses will enter the gates of this house. The king will enter along with his officials <n>{Lit. house, he, his officials}</n> and his people. 


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But if you don't listen to these words, I swear," declares the Lord , "that this house will become a ruin."»" 


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For this is what the Lord says about the house of the king of Judah, "You are like Gilead to me, like the summit of Lebanon. Yet I'll surely make you a desert, towns where no one lives. 


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I'll appoint people to destroy you, men with their weapons. They'll cut down some of your choice cedars and throw them into the fire. 


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"Many nations will pass by this city and say to one another, «Why did the Lord do this to this great city? '


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Then people <n>{Lit. they'll say}</n> will respond, «It is <n>{The Heb. lacks It is}</n> because they have forsaken the covenant of the Lord their God and have bowed down to other gods and served them.'


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"Don't cry for the dead or grieve for them. Weep bitterly for the one going away, because he won't return again nor see the land of his birth. 


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"For this is what the Lord says about Josiah's son Shallum, <n>{Shallum (also known as Jehoahaz) succeeded his father Josiah, but was removed by the Egyptians after three months and exiled to Egypt.}</n> king of Judah, who reigned in place of his father Josiah: «He went out from this place and won't return to it again. 


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He will die in the place where they exiled him, and he won't ever <n>{The Heb. lacks ever}</n> see this land again.»" 


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<n>{An Oracle against Jehoiakim}</n> d "How terrible for him who builds his house without righteousness, and its upper rooms without justice, who makes his neighbor work for nothing, and does not pay him his wage. 


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How terrible for <n>{The Heb. lacks How terrible for}</n> him who says, «I'll build a large house for myself with spacious upper rooms, who cuts out windows for it, paneling it with cedar and painting it red.'


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Are you a king because you try to outdo everyone with cedar? Your father ate and drank and upheld justice and righteousness, did he not? And then it went well for him. 


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He judged the case of the poor and needy. And then it went well for him. Isn't this what it means to know me? 


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But your eyes and heart are on nothing but your dishonest gain, shedding the blood of innocent people, and practicing oppression and extortion." 


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Therefore, this is what the Lord says about Josiah's son Jehoiakim, king of Judah, "They won't lament for him with these words: <n>{The Heb. lacks with these words}</n> «How terrible, my brother, How terrible, my sister!'They won't lament for him with these words: <n>{The Heb. lacks with these words}</n> «How terrible, lord, How terrible, your <n>{The Heb. lacks your}</n> majesty!'


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He will receive <n>{Lit. be buried with}</n> a donkey's burial, dragged out and thrown outside the gates of Jerusalem." 


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<n>{An Oracle against Jerusalem}</n> d Go up to Lebanon and cry out, to Bashan and lift up your voice. Cry out from Abarim, for all your lovers <n>{I.e. your allies}</n> have been crushed. 


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I spoke to you when you were secure, <n>{Or prosperous}</n> but you said, "I won't listen!" This has been your way since your youth, for you haven't obeyed me. 


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The wind will shepherd <n>{I.e. round them up and blow them away}</n> all your shepherds, <n>{I.e. leaders}</n> and your lovers <n>{I.e. your allies}</n> will go into exile. Indeed, you will then be ashamed and humiliated because of all your wickedness. 


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You who live in Lebanon, who build your nest in the cedars, how you will groan when pains come upon you, pain like that of a woman giving birth. 


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<n>{An Oracle against Jehoiachin}</n> d "As certainly as I'm alive and living," declares the Lord , "even if Jehoiakim's son King Jehoiachin <n>{Lit. Coniah}</n> of Judah were a signet ring on my right hand, I would pull you off 


text:
and give you to those who are trying to kill you, whom you fear that is, to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon and the Chaldeans. 


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I'll hurl you and the mother who gave birth to you into another land where you were not born, and there you will die. 


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As for the land to which you <n>{Lit. they}</n> want to return, you <n>{Lit. they}</n> won't return there! 


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"Is this man Jehoiachin <n>{Lit. Coniah}</n> a despised and shattered jar, a vessel no one wants? Why were he and his descendants hurled away, thrown into a land that they didn't know? 


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This is what the Lord says: «Write this man off as childless, a man who does not prosper in his lifetime. <n>{Lit. in his days}</n> None of his descendants will succeed in sitting on the throne of David, or ever ruling in Judah again.»" 


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<n>{A Righteous King for God's People}</n> d "How terrible for the shepherds <n>{I.e. leaders}</n> who are destroying and scattering the sheep of my pasture!" declares the Lord . 


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Therefore, this is what the Lord God of Israel says about the shepherds who are shepherding my people, "You have scattered my flock and driven them away. You haven't taken care of them, and now I'm about to take care of you <n>{I.e. in judgment}</n> because of your evil deeds," declares the Lord . 


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"I'll gather the remnant of my flock from all the countries where I've driven them, and bring them back to their pasture where they'll be fruitful and increase in numbers. 


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I'll raise up shepherds over them, and they'll shepherd them. My flock <n>{Lit. they}</n> will no longer be afraid or terrified, and none will be missing," declares the Lord . 


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"The time is coming," declares the Lord , "when I'll raise up a righteous branch for David. He will be a king who rules wisely, and he will administer justice and righteousness in the land. 


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In his time <n>{Lit. days}</n> Judah will be delivered and Israel will dwell in safety. This is the name by which he will be known: «The Lord Our Righteousness.'


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"Therefore, the time is coming," declares the Lord , "when people will no longer say, «As surely as the Lord lives who brought up the Israelis from the land of Egypt,'


text:
but they'll say, <n>{The Heb. lacks they'll say}</n> «As surely as the Lord lives who brought the descendants of the Israelis from the land of the north and from all the lands where I had driven them and brought them into the land.'<n>{The Heb. lacks the land}</n> Then they'll live in their own land." 


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<n>{An Oracle about False Prophets}</n> d Concerning the prophets: My heart is broken within me, and all my bones shake. I'm like a drunk man, like a person overcome with wine, because of the Lord , and because of his holy words. 


text:
Indeed, the land is full of adulterers. Indeed, the land mourns because of the curse; the pastures of the wilderness have dried up. The adulterers'<n>{Lit. Their}</n> lifestyles are evil, and they use <n>{The Heb. lacks they use}</n> their strength for what <n>{The Heb. lacks for what}</n> is not right. 


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Therefore their way will be slippery. They'll be driven out into the darkness, where they'll fall. For I'll bring disaster on them, the year of their judgment," declares the Lord . 


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"Among the prophets of Samaria I saw a disgusting thing, for they prophesied by Baal and led my people Israel astray. 


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Among the prophets of Jerusalem I saw a horrible thing, for they commit adultery and live a lie. They strengthen the hands of those who do evil, so that no one repents of his evil. All of them are like Sodom to me, and her <n>{I.e. Jerusalem's}</n> residents like Gomorrah." 


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Therefore, this is what the Lord God of the Heavenly Armies says about the prophets, "I'm about to make them eat wormwood <n>{ Wormwood is a plant with an extremely bitter taste}</n> and drink poisoned water, because godlessness has spread from the prophets of Jerusalem throughout the land." 


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This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: "Don't listen to the words of the prophets who are prophesying to you; they're giving you false hopes. They declare visions from their own minds they don't come from the Lord ! <n>{Lit. not from the mouth of the LORD}</n> 


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They keep on saying to those who despise me, «The Lord has said, "You will have peace."'To all who stubbornly follow their own desires <n>{Lit. walk in the stubbornness of their heart}</n> they say, «Disaster won't come upon you.'


text:
But who has stood in the Lord's council to see and hear his message? Who has paid attention to his message and obeyed it? <n>{Or listened to}</n> 


text:
Look, the storm of the Lord's wrath has gone forth, a whirling tempest, and it will swirl down around the head of the wicked. 


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The Lord» s anger won't turn back until he has accomplished what he intended to do. In the future you will clearly understand it. 


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I didn't send these prophets, <n>{Lit. prophets}</n> but they ran anyway. I didn't speak to them, but they prophesied. 


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If they had stood in my council and had delivered my words to my people, then they would have turned them back from their evil way, from their evil deeds." 


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If a person hides himself in secret places, will I not see him?" declares the Lord . "I fill the heavens and the earth, do I not?" declares the Lord . 


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"I've heard what the prophets who prophesy lies in my name have said: «I had a dream; I had a dream.'


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How long will this go on? <n>{The Heb. lacks will this go on}</n> Is there anything <n>{The Heb. lacks anything}</n> in the hearts of the prophets who prophesy lies, and who prophesy from the deceit that is in their hearts? 


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With their dreams that they relate to one another, <n>{Lit. each to his colleague}</n> they plan to make my people forget my name just as their ancestors forgot my name by embracing <n>{The Heb. lacks embracing}</n> Baal. 


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Let the prophet who has a dream relate the dream, but let whoever receives my message <n>{Lit. my word is with him}</n> speak my message truthfully. What does straw have in common with wheat?" declares the Lord . 


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"Therefore, look, I'm against the prophets," declares the Lord , "who steal my words from each other. 


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Look, I'm against the prophets," declares the Lord , "who use their tongues to issue a declaration. <n>{I.e. a message that they claim came from God}</n> 


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Look, I'm against those who prophesy based on false dreams," declares the Lord , "and relate them and lead my people astray with their lies and their recklessness. I didn't send them; I didn't command them, and they provide no benefit at all to these people," declares the Lord . 


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<n>{The Oracle-Burden <n>{An oracle is a message that claims to be a revelation from the Lord . The same Heb. word means both oracle and burden , and this entire section invokes a word play between the two meanings of this Heb. word.}</n> of the Lord}</n> d "Jeremiah, <n>{The Heb. lacks Jeremiah}</n> when these people, the prophet, or a priest ask you, <n>{I.e. the prophet Jeremiah; MT is masculine singular}</n> «What is the oracle <n>{Or burden}</n> of the Lord ? 'say to them, «You are the burden, <n>{Or oracle ; MT reads What oracle?}</n> and I'll cast you out,»" declares the Lord . 


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"As for the prophet, the priest, or the people who say, «I have <n>{The Heb. lacks I have}</n> an oracle of the Lord ,'I'll judge that person and his household. 


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This is what you should say to one another and among yourselves, <n>{Lit. each to his neighbor and each to his brother}</n> «What has the Lord answered? 'or «What has the Lord said? '


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But you are to no longer mention <n>{Or remember}</n> the oracle of the Lord , because the oracle is only for the person to whom the Lord gives his message, <n>{Lit. for the person of his word}</n> and you have overturned the words of the living God, the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, our God. 


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This is what you should say to the prophet, «What has the Lord answered? 'or «What has the Lord said? '


text:
Since you're saying, «We have an oracle of the Lord ,'<n>{The Heb. lacks of the LORD}</n> therefore this is what the Lord says: He will answer your message with this message, «Burden <n>{Or Oracle}</n> of the Lord ,'and I'll send you away with these words: «Don't say, "Oracle of the Lord ."'


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Therefore I'll surely forget you and cast you and the city I gave you and your ancestors out of my presence. 


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I'll bring on you everlasting reproach and everlasting humiliation that won't ever <n>{The Heb. lacks ever}</n> be forgotten." 


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<n>{Two Baskets of Figs}</n> d After Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, had taken Jehoiakim's son Jeconiah, <n>{I.e. Jehoiachin}</n> king of Judah, along with the officials <n>{Or princes}</n> of Judah, the craftsmen, and the smiths from Jerusalem into exile, and had brought them to Babylon, the Lord showed me two baskets of figs placed right in front of the Temple of the Lord . 


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One basket contained very good figs like the first figs that ripen on the tree. The other basket contained very bad figs that were too bad to be eaten. 


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The Lord told me, "What do you see?" I replied, "Figs. The good figs are very good, and the bad figs are very bad. They're too bad to be eaten." 


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"This is what the Lord God of Israel says: «Like these good figs, so I'll regard as good the exiles of Judah whom I sent from this place to the land of the Chaldeans. 


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I'll look at them with good intentions, and I'll bring them back to this land. I'll build them up. I won't tear them down; I'll plant them and not rip them up. 


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I'll give them the ability <n>{Lit. them a heart}</n> to know me, for I am the Lord . They will be my people, and I will be their God when they return to me with all their heart. 


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«Like the bad figs that are too bad to be eaten for this is what the Lord says so I'll give up on Zedekiah king of Judah, along with his officials, the remnant of Jerusalem that is left in this land, and those living in the land of Egypt. 


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I'll make them into a horrifying sight to all the kingdoms of the earth; into a cause for contempt, into a byword, into a taunt, and into a curse in all the places to which I drive them. 


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I'll send the sword, famine, and plague against them until they're completely destroyed from the land which I gave them and their ancestors.»" 


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<n>{The Irrevocable Judgment on Judah}</n> d This message from the Lord came to Jeremiah concerning all the people of Judah in the fourth year of Josiah's son Jehoiakim, king of Judah. (This was also the first year of the reign of <n>{The Heb. lacks the reign of}</n> King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.) 


text:
"From the thirteenth year of the reign of <n>{The Heb. lacks the reign of}</n> Ammon's son Josiah, the king of Judah, until the present time, for 23 years this message from the Lord has come to me, and I've spoken to you again and again, <n>{Lit. getting up early and speaking}</n> but you haven't listened. 


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Again and again, <n>{Lit. getting up early and sending}</n> the Lord sent all his servants, the prophets, to you, but you wouldn't listen or even turn your ears in my direction to hear. 


text:
They said, «Turn, each one of you, from your <n>{Lit. his}</n> evil habits <n>{Lit. ways}</n> and evil deeds, and live in the land that the Lord gave to you and your ancestors forever and ever. 


text:
Don't follow other gods to serve and worship them. Don't provoke me with the idols <n>{Lit. works}</n> you make with your hands, and I won't bring disaster on you.'


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But you didn't listen to me," declares the Lord , "so as to provoke me with the idols <n>{Lit. works}</n> you make with your hands to your own harm. 


text:
"Therefore, this is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: «Because you haven't listened to my message, 


text:
I'm now sending for all the tribes from the north, declares the Lord , and for my servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. I'll bring them against this land, against its inhabitants, and against all these surrounding nations. I'll utterly destroy them and make them an object of horror and scorn, <n>{Lit. hissing ; i.e. a sign of mocking and contempt}</n> and an everlasting desolation. 


text:
I'll destroy the sounds of gladness and rejoicing from them, the sounds of the bridegroom and the bride, the sound of the hand mill and also the light of the lamp. 


text:
This entire land will be a desolation and a waste, and these nations will serve the king of Babylon for seventy years. 


text:
«Then when the seventy years have passed, I'll judge the king of Babylon and that nation, declares the Lord , I'll judge <n>{The Heb. lacks I'll judge}</n> the land of the Chaldeans for their iniquity and I'll make it a desolation forever. 


text:
I'll bring on that land all the things I spoke against it, all that is written in this book, which Jeremiah prophesied about the nations. 


text:
Indeed many nations and great kings will make slaves even of them, and I'll repay them according to their deeds, according to what they have done.»" 


text:
<n>{Judgment on the Nations}</n> d For this is what the Lord God of Israel says to me, "Take this cup of the wine of burning anger from my hand and make all the nations to whom I send you drink it. 


text:
So I took the cup from the Lord's hand, and I made all the nations to whom the Lord sent me drink it: 


text:
Jerusalem, the cities of Judah, its kings and officials <n>{Or princes}</n> to make them into a ruin, an object of horror and scorn, <n>{Lit. hissing ; i.e. hissing was a sign of ridicule and contempt}</n> and a curse, as it is this day; 


text:
all the various people; <n>{Or the mixed company}</n> all the kings of the land of Uz, all the kings of the land of the Philistines, Ashkelon, Gaza, Ekron, and what remains of Ashdod; 


text:
all the kings of Tyre, all the kings of Sidon, and all the kings of the coast lands that are beyond the sea; 


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all the kings of Arabia and all the kings of the various people <n>{Or the mixed company}</n> who live in the desert; 


text:
all the kings of the north near and far, one after another, and all the kingdoms of the world on the face of the earth. The king of Sheshak <n>{ Sheshak is a cryptogram for Babylon}</n> will drink after all the others. <n>{Lit. after them}</n> 


text:
"You are to say to them, «This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: "Drink, get drunk, and vomit! Fall down and don't get up because of the sword I'm sending among you."'


text:
And if they refuse to take the cup from your hand to drink it, say to them, «This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: "You will surely drink it! 


text:
Look, I'm beginning to bring disaster on the city that is called by my name, and do you actually think you will avoid punishment? You won't avoid punishment because I'm summoning the sword against all those who live in the land," declares the Lord of the Heavenly Armies.»" 


text:
<n>{The Lord will Judge the Nations}</n> d "You are to prophesy all these things against them, and you are to say to them, «The Lord roars from his high place, from his holy dwelling he lifts his voice. He roars loudly against his flock, <n>{Or habitation}</n> and against all who live on the earth; he shouts like those treading grapes. <n>{The Heb. lacks grapes}</n> 


text:
A tumult reaches to the ends of the earth because the Lord is bringing an indictment against the nations. He judges all flesh. He has given the wicked over to the sword,'declares the Lord . 


text:
«This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: "Look, disaster is going from nation to nation, a great storm is being stirred up from the most distant parts of the earth. 


text:
"Those slain by the Lord on that day will extend <n>{Lit. will be}</n> from one end of the earth to the other. They won't be mourned for or gathered up or buried. They'll be like dung on the surface of the ground. 


text:
"Scream, you shepherds! Cry out! Roll in the dust, you leaders of the flock! Indeed, the time for your slaughter and your dispersion has arrived, and you will break like a choice vessel. 


text:
Flight will be impossible <n>{Lit. will perish}</n> for the shepherds, as will be escape for the leaders of the flock. 


text:
A sound it's the cry of the shepherds and the scream of the leaders of the flock because the Lord is destroying their pastures. 


text:
Like a lion, he has left his den. <n>{Or thicket}</n> Indeed, their land has become a waste because of the anger of the oppressor and because of the Lord's <n>{Lit. his}</n> fierce anger." 


text:
<n>{Jeremiah is Arrested}</n> d In the beginning of the reign of Josiah's son Jehoiakim, king of Judah, this message came from the Lord : 


text:
"This is what the Lord says: «Stand in the courtyard of the Lord's Temple and tell those from all the cities <n>{Lit. speak to all the cities}</n> of Judah who are coming to worship at the Lord's Temple everything that I've commanded you to say to them. Don't leave out a word! 


text:
Perhaps they'll listen, and each of them will repent from his evil way. Then I'll change my mind about the disaster I'm planning to bring on <n>{Lit. do to}</n> them because of their evil deeds. 


text:
Say to them, "This is what the Lord says: «If you don't listen to me to follow my Law which I've set before you, 


text:
and listen to the words of my servants, the prophets, whom I've sent to you over and over <n>{Lit. getting up early to send}</n> but you wouldn't listen 


text:
then I'll make this house like Shiloh and make this city into a curse to all the nations of the earth.»"»" 


text:
<n>{Jeremiah Threatened with Death}</n> d The priests, the prophets, and all the people listened as Jeremiah spoke these words at the Lord's Temple. 


text:
As soon as Jeremiah finished saying everything that the Lord had commanded him to say to all the people, the priests, the prophets, and all the people seized him, telling him as they did: "You must certainly die! 


text:
Why have you prophesied in the name of the Lord that this house will be like Shiloh, and this city will be without an inhabitant?" Then all the people gathered around Jeremiah at the Lord's Temple. 


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When the Judean officials <n>{Or princes}</n> heard all these things, they came up from the king's house to the Lord's Temple and sat in the doorway of the New Gate of the Lord's Temple. <n>{The Heb. lacks temple}</n> 


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The priests and prophets told the officials and all the people, "A death sentence for this man, because he prophesied against this city, as you heard with your own ears!" 


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Then Jeremiah spoke to all the officials and to all the people: "The Lord has sent me to prophesy all the things you heard against this house and against this city. 


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Now, change your habits <n>{Lit. ways}</n> and your deeds and obey the Lord your God, and the Lord will change his mind about the disaster that he told you about. 


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But know for certain that if you kill me, you will bring innocent blood on yourselves and on this city and its residents because the Lord really did send me to you to say all these things for you to hear." 


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<n>{The Elders Remember Micah's Similar Message}</n> d The officials and all the people told the priests and the prophets, "No death sentence for this man because he has spoken to us in the name of the Lord our God." 


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"Micah of Moresheth prophesied during the reign <n>{Lit. time}</n> of Hezekiah king of Judah to all the people of Judah, «This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says: "Zion will be a plowed field, and Jerusalem a ruin. The Temple Mount will be a wooded hill."'<n>{Or a wooded high place}</n> 


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"Did Hezekiah king of Judah or anyone in Judah kill him? Didn't he fear the Lord and seek the Lord's favor, and so the Lord changed his mind about the disaster that he had spoken to them about. We're bringing great disaster on ourselves. 


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There was also a man named Uriah, Shemaiah's son from Kiriath-jearim, who prophesied in the Lord's name. He prophesied about this city and this land in words similar to those of Jeremiah. 


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King Jehoiakim, all his troops, and all the officials heard his words, and the king sought to kill him. Uriah heard about this and was afraid, so he fled and went to Egypt. 


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King Jehoiakim sent men to Egypt. He sent <n>{The Heb. lacks He sent}</n> Achbor's son Elnathan, along with a contingent of men <n>{Lit. Achbor and men with him}</n> into Egypt. 


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They brought Uriah out of Egypt and brought him to King Jehoiakim, who killed him with a sword. Then they threw his body into a common grave. <n>{Lit. a grave of the sons of the people}</n> " 


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Yet because Shaphan's son Ahikam supported Jeremiah, <n>{Lit. the hand of Shaphan's son Ahikam was with Jeremiah}</n> he was not handed over to the people for them to kill. 


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<n>{Jeremiah Tells the Nations to Submit to Babylon}</n> d At the beginning of the reign of Josiah's son Jehoiakim, king of Judah, this message came to Jeremiah from the Lord : 


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this is what the Lord says to me: "Make restraints and yokes for yourself and put them on your neck. 


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Then send messengers <n>{Lit. them}</n> to the king of Edom, the king of Moab, the king of the Ammonites, the king of Tyre, and the king of Sidon through the envoys <n>{Or messengers}</n> who come to Jerusalem to king Zedekiah of Judah. 


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Give them this order for their masters: «This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says, and this is what you are to say to your masters, 


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"By my great power and outstretched arm I made the earth, mankind, and the animals that are on the face of the earth, and I give it to whomever I see fit. <n>{Or to whoever is upright in my eyes}</n> 


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Now I've given all these lands to my servant, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and I've even given him the wild animals to serve him. 


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All the nations will serve him, his son, and his grandson until his country's time also comes, and then many nations and great kings will use him as a slave. 


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If a nation and kingdom does not serve him King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon and does not put its neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon, I'll judge that nation with the sword, with famine, and with plague," declares the Lord , "until I've completely destroyed it by his hand. 


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You aren't to listen to your prophets, your diviners, your dreamers, <n>{Lit. your dreams}</n> your soothsayers, and your sorcerers who say to you, «Don't serve the king of Babylon.'


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They're prophesying a lie to you in order to remove you far away from your land. I'll drive you out and you will perish. 


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But I'll let the nation that brings its neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon and serves him remain in its own land," declares the Lord , "and they'll work it and remain in it."»" 


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<n>{Zedekiah Told to Submit to Babylon}</n> d I spoke to Zedekiah king of Judah using words like these: "Bring your neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon. Serve him and his people, and you will live! 


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Why should you and your people die by the sword, by famine, and by plague as the Lord has decreed about the nation that does not serve the king of Babylon? 


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Don't listen to the words of the prophets who say to you, «You won't serve the king of Babylon.'Indeed, they're prophesying a lie to you. 


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For I didn't send them," declares the Lord , "and they're falsely prophesying in my name, so I will drive both you and the prophets who prophesy to you out of the land." 


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<n>{The People and Priests Told to Submit to Babylon}</n> d Then I spoke to the priests and all this people: "This is what the Lord says: «Don't listen to the words of the prophets who prophesy to you: "The vessels from the Temple are about to be returned from Babylon very soon now." Indeed, they're prophesying a lie to you. 


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Don't listen to them! Serve the king of Babylon and you'll live. Why should this city become a ruin? 


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If they're prophets, and if they have a message from the Lord , let them plead with the Lord of the Heavenly Armies so that the utensils that remain in the Lord's Temple, in the house of the king of Judah, and in Jerusalem might not be taken to Babylon. 


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For this is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says about the pillars, the bronze sea, the stands, and the rest of the vessels that remain in this city 


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that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon didn't take when he took Jehoiakim's son Jeconiah, king of Judah, and all the nobles of Judah and Jerusalem from Jerusalem into exile to Babylon 


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For this is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel says about the vessels that remain in the Lord's Temple, in the house of the king of Judah, and in Jerusalem, 


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"They'll go into Babylon and there they'll remain until the time I take note of them," declares the Lord . "Then I'll bring them up and return them to this place."»" 


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<n>{Jeremiah Challenges a False Prophet}</n> d In that same year, in the beginning of the reign of Zedekiah, king of Judah, in the fourth year and the fifth month, Azzur's son Hananiah, the prophet from Gibeon, told me at the Lord's Temple in front of the priests and all the people, 


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"This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: «I've broken the yoke of the king of Babylon, 


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and within two years I'll bring back to this place all the vessels of the Lord's Temple that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon took from this place and carried to Babylon. 


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I'll bring back Jehoiakim's son Jeconiah, king of Judah, and all the exiles of Judah who went to Babylon to this place,'declares the Lord , «for I'll break the yoke of the king of Babylon.»" 


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The prophet Jeremiah spoke to the prophet Hananiah in front of the priests and all <n>{Lit. and in front of}</n> the people who were standing in the Lord's Temple. 


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The prophet Jeremiah said, "May the Lord truly do this thing! May the Lord fulfill the words <n>{Lit. your words}</n> that you prophesied to bring back the vessels of the Lord's Temple and all the exiles from Babylon to this place. 


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The prophets who came before us <n>{Lit. before me and before you}</n> from ancient times prophesied war, famine, and plague against many lands and great kingdoms. 


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When a prophet prophesies peace, and what the prophet speaks comes about, he will be known as the prophet whom the Lord has truly sent." 


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Then the prophet Hananiah took the yoke <n>{Lit. the bar of the yoke}</n> from the neck of Jeremiah the prophet and broke it. 


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Hananiah, in front of all the people, said, "This is what the Lord says: «In the same way, within two years, I'll break the yoke of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon from the neck of all the nations.»" Then Jeremiah the prophet went on his way. 


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This message from the Lord came to Jeremiah after the prophet Hananiah had broken the yoke <n>{Lit. the bar of the yoke}</n> from the neck of Jeremiah the prophet: 


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"Go and say to Hananiah, «This is what the Lord says: "You have broken wooden yokes, <n>{Lit. the bars of the yoke}</n> but you have made iron yokes <n>{Lit. the bars of the yoke}</n> in their place." 


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For this is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: "I've put an iron yoke on the necks of all these nations to serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. They'll serve him, and I've even given the wild animals to him."»" 


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The prophet Jeremiah told the prophet Hananiah, "Listen, Hananiah! The Lord didn't send you, and you are causing these people to trust in a lie. 


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Therefore, this is what the Lord says: «I'm about to remove <n>{Lit. send you away}</n> you from the face of the earth. This year you will die because you have preached rebellion against the Lord .»" 


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<n>{Jeremiah's Letter to the Exiles}</n> d These are the words of the letter that the prophet Jeremiah sent from Jerusalem to the remaining elders among the exiles, to the priests, to the prophets, and to all the people whom Nebuchadnezzar had taken into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon, 


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after King Jeconiah, the queen mother, the palace officials, <n>{Or eunuchs}</n> the officials <n>{Or princes}</n> of Judah and Jerusalem, the craftsmen, and the smiths left Jerusalem. 


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The letter was sent by Shaphan's son Elasah and by Hilkiah's son Gemariah, whom King Zedekiah of Judah sent to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon in Babylon, and it said, 


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"This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says to all the exiles who were taken from Jerusalem into exile to Babylon, 


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«Build houses and live in them. <n>{The Heb. lacks in them}</n> Plant gardens and eat their produce. 


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Take wives and father sons and daughters. Take wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so they may have sons and daughters. Increase in numbers there, don't decrease. 


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Seek the welfare of the city to which I've exiled you and pray to the Lord for it, for your welfare depends on its welfare.'<n>{Lit. for in its welfare is your welfare}</n> 


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For this is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: «Don't let the prophets and diviners <n>{Lit. your prophets and your diviners}</n> who are among you deceive you, and don't listen to them when they tell you their dreams. <n>{Lit. to your dreams that you cause to be dreamed}</n> 


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"For this is what the Lord says: «When Babylon's seventy years are completed, I'll take note of you and will fulfill my good promises to you by bringing you back to this place. 


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For I know the plans that I have for you,'declares the Lord , «plans for well-being, and not for calamity, in order to give you a future and a hope. 


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I'll be found by you,'declares the Lord , «and I'll restore your security <n>{Or captivity}</n> and gather you from all the nations and all the places to which I've driven you,'declares the Lord . «I'll bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.'


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"But this is what the Lord says about the king who sits on David's throne, and about the people who live in this city your brothers who didn't go with you into exile: 


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This is what the Lord says: «I'm about to send the sword, famine, and plague on them, and I'll make them like rotten figs that cannot be eaten because they're so bad. 


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I'll pursue them with the sword, with famine, and with plague, and I'll make them a horrifying sight to all the kingdoms of the earth. I'll make them <n>{The Heb. lacks I'll make them}</n> a curse, an object of horror, and scorn, <n>{Lit. hissing ; i.e. hissing was a sign of mocking and contempt}</n> and a desolation in all the nations to which I've driven them, 


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because they didn't listen to my words,'declares the Lord . «When I sent my servants, the prophets, to you again and again, <n>{Lit. getting up early and sending}</n> you didn't listen,'declares the Lord . 


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This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says about Kolaiah's son Ahab and Maaseiah's son Zedekiah, who are prophesying lies to you in my name, «I'm about to give them into the domination <n>{Lit. hand}</n> of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and he will kill them before your eyes. 


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What happens to them will be the basis for a curse <n>{Lit. From them a curse will be taken}</n> for all the Judean exiles who are in Babylon. People will say, <n>{Lit. Saying}</n> "May the Lord make you like Zedekiah and Ahab, whom the Lord roasted <n>{MT word for roasted sounds like MT word for curse}</n> in the fire, 


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because they did something stupid <n>{Lit. they committed folly}</n> in Israel. They committed adultery with their neighbors'wives, and in my name they spoke lies that I didn't command them. I'm the one who knows, and I'm a witness," declares the Lord .»" 


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«This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, the God of Israel, says: "Because you sent letters in your own name to all the people who are in Jerusalem, to Maaseiah's son Zephaniah the priest and to all the priests 


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The Lord made you a priest instead of Jehoiada the priest to serve in the Lord's Temple as an official against every crazy prophet, and to put him in stocks and restraints. 


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So he sent a message <n>{The Heb. lacks a message}</n> to us in Babylon: «The exile <n>{Lit. It}</n> will be long, so build houses and live in them. <n>{The Heb. lacks in them}</n> Plant gardens and eat their produce.»"»" 


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"Send a message to all the exiles: «This is what the Lord says about Shemaiah from Nehelam, "Because Shemaiah has prophesied to you, even though I didn't send him, and has made you trust a lie," 


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therefore, this is what the Lord says: "I'm about to judge Shemaiah from Nehelam along with his descendants. He won't have anyone related to him <n>{The Heb. lacks related to him}</n> living among these people. Nor will he see the good that I'll do for my people," declares the Lord , "because he advocated rebellion against the Lord ."»" 


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Indeed, the time <n>{Lit. days}</n> will come,'declares the Lord , «when I'll restore the security of my people Israel and Judah,'says the Lord . «I'll bring them back to the land that I gave to their ancestors, and they'll possess it.»" 


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"Indeed, this is what the Lord says: «We have heard a sound of terror and of fear, and there is no peace. 


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Ask about this and think about it Can a man give birth to a child? Why then do I see every strong man with his hands on his thighs like a woman giving birth, and all their faces have turned pale? 


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Oh how terrible! That time <n>{Lit. day}</n> will be worse than any like it. It will be a time of trouble for Jacob, but he will be rescued from it. 


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On that day,'declares the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, «I'll break the yoke <n>{Lit. his yoke}</n> from your neck and will tear off your restraints. <n>{Or cords}</n> Foreigners will no longer make you <n>{Lit. him (i.e. Jacob)}</n> serve them. <n>{I.e. enslave you}</n> 


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«My servant Jacob, don't be afraid,'declares the Lord , «and Israel, don't be dismayed. For I'll deliver you from a distant place and your descendants from the land of their captivity. Jacob will return. He will be undisturbed and secure, and no one will cause him to fear. 


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For I'll be with you to save you,'declares the Lord . «For I'll put an end to all the nations where I scattered you; but I won't make an end of you. I'll discipline you justly, but I certainly won't leave you unpunished.'


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<n>{The Healing of Zion's Wounds}</n> d "For this is what the Lord says: «Your injury won't heal; your wound is severe. 


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There is no one to plead your cause. There is no medicine for your sore; <n>{Lit. for a sore}</n> no healing for you. 


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All your lovers have forgotten you; they don't seek you. Indeed, I've struck you down with the blow of an enemy, with the punishment of a cruel foe <n>{Lit. cruel one}</n> because your wickedness is great, and your sins are numerous. 


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Why do you cry out because of your injury? Your wound won't heal. Because your wickedness is severe, and your sins are numerous, I've done all these things to you. 


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In addition, all who devour you will be devoured, and all your oppressors all of them will go into captivity. Those who plunder you will become plunder, and all who spoil you will become spoil. 


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Indeed, I'll bring you healing, and I'll heal you of your wounds,'declares the Lord , «because they have called you an outcast and have said, <n>{The Heb. lacks and have said}</n> "It is Zion, no one cares for her!"»" <n>{Or seeks her}</n> 


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<n>{Jacob's Restoration}</n> d "This is what the Lord says: «I'm going to restore the fortunes of the tents of Jacob and have compassion on his dwellings. A city will be rebuilt on its ruins and a palace <n>{Or fortress}</n> will sit on its rightful place. 


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Thanksgiving and the sounds of laughter will come out of them. I'll cause them to increase in numbers and not decrease. I'll honor them and not make them insignificant. 


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Their <n>{Lit. his children and so through v. 21}</n> children will be as they were before, and their congregation will be established before me. I'll punish all who oppress them. 


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Their leader will be one of their own, <n>{Lit. of them}</n> and their ruler will come from among them. I'll bring him near, and he will approach me, for who would otherwise dare to approach me? 'declares the Lord . 


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<n>{The Coming Judgment}</n> d Look, the storm of the Lord ! His <n>{The Heb. lacks His}</n> wrath has gone forth, a twisting storm. It will swirl around the head of the wicked. 


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The fierce anger of the Lord won't turn back until he has accomplished and established the plan of his heart. In the days to come, you will understand this. 


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"At that time," declares the Lord , "I'll be the God of all the families of Israel, and they will be my people." 


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<n>{The Lord Promises Restoration}</n> d This is what the Lord says: "The people who survived the sword, found favor in the desert while Israel was seeking rest. <n>{Lit. while going to find rest for him, Israel ; cf. Deut 28:65}</n> 


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The Lord appeared to Israel <n>{Lit. to me ; i.e. here Jeremiah personifies Israel}</n> from far away and said, <n>{The Heb. lacks and said}</n> "I've loved you with an everlasting love, therefore I've drawn you with gracious love. 


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I'll again build you, and you will be rebuilt, Virgin Israel! You will again take up your tambourines and go out to dance with those who are filled with joy. 


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You will again plant vineyards on the hills of Samaria where planters had planted and defiled the fruit. <n>{I.e. had used the fruit for inappropriate purposes}</n> 


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For there will be a day when the watchmen will call out on the hills of Ephraim, «Arise, let's go up to Zion to the Lord our God.»" 


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<n>{The Blessings of Returning from Exile}</n> d For this is what the Lord says: "Cry out with joy for Jacob and shout for the chief among the nations. Announce, give praise, and say, «Lord, save your people, the remnant of Israel.'


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Look, I'm bringing them from the northern region, <n>{Lit. the land of the north}</n> and I'll gather them from the farthest parts of the earth. among them will be the blind and the lame, together with the pregnant woman and the woman in labor. A large group will return here. 


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They'll come crying, and I'll lead them as they pray for mercy. <n>{Lit. I'll lead them with prayer for mercy}</n> I'll make them walk by streams of water, along a straight path on which they won't stumble. For I am Israel's father, and Ephraim is my firstborn." 


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Nations, listen to this message from the Lord , and declare it in the distant coastlands. Say, "The one who scattered Israel will gather him and keep him as a shepherd keeps his flock." 


