²² Yahweh says, “Behold, a people comes from the north country. A great nation will be stirred up from the uttermost parts of the earth. ²³ They take hold of bow and spear. They are cruel, and have no mercy. Their voice roars like the sea, and they ride on horses, everyone set in array, as a man to the battle, against you, daughter of Zion.”

²⁴ We have heard its report. Our hands become feeble. Anguish has taken hold of us, and pains as of a woman in labor. ²⁵ Don’t go out into the field or walk by the way; for the sword of the enemy and terror are on every side. ²⁶ Daughter of my people, clothe yourself with sackcloth, and wallow in ashes! Mourn, as for an only son, most bitter lamentation, for the destroyer will suddenly come on us.