1. The Lord said:
2. Ezekiel, son of man, condemn the places in Jerusalem where people worship. Warn everyone in Israel
3. that I am about to punish them. I will pull out my sword and have it ready to kill everyone, whether good or evil.
4. From south to north, people will die,
5. knowing that my sword will never be put away.
6. Ezekiel, groan in sorrow and despair so that everyone can hear you.
7. When they ask why you are groaning, tell them you have terrifying news that will make them faint and tremble in fear and lose all courage. These things will happen soon. I, the Lord God, make this promise!
8. The Lord said:
9-10. Ezekiel, son of man, tell the people of Jerusalem:I have sharpened my swordto slaughter you;it is shiny and will flashlike lightning!Don't celebrate—punishment is coming,because everyone has ignoredmy warnings.
11. My sword has been polished;it's sharp and ready to kill.
12. Groan in sorrow, Ezekiel;the sword is drawn againstmy people and their leaders.They will die!So give up all hope.