1. An oracle about Damascus.Look! Damascus is finished as a city;it will become a fallen ruin.
2. The villages of Aroer are abandoned forever.They will be pastures for flocks,which will lie down undisturbed.
3. Ephraim’s security will cease,as will Damascus’ rule.What’s left of Aram will resemble the glory of the Israelites,says the Lord of heavenly forces.
4. On that day, Jacob’s glory will dwindle;his sleek body will waste away.
5. It will be as when harvesters gather grain.God will harvest armfuls at a time,like one who gathers grainin the Rephaim Valley.
6. Only remaining bits are left,like an olive tree that has been shaken:two or three olives on the highest branch;four or five on a fruitful twig,says the Lord God of Israel.