12. I created the worldand covered it with people;I stretched out the skyand filled it with stars.
13. I have done the right thingby placing Cyrus in power,and I will make the roads easyfor him to follow.I am the Lord All-Powerful!Cyrus will rebuild my cityand set my people freewithout being paid a thing.I, the Lord, have spoken.
14. My people, I, the Lord, promisethat the riches of Egyptand the treasures of Ethiopiawill belong to you.You will force into slaverythose tall people of Seba.They will bow down and say,“The only true God is with you;there are no other gods.”
15. People of Israel,your God is a mystery,though he alone can save.
16. Anyone who makes idolswill be confusedand terribly disgraced.
17. But Israel, I, the Lord,will always keep you safeand free from shame.
18. The Lord alone is God!He created the heavensand made a worldwhere people can live,instead of creatingan empty desert.The Lord alone is God;there are no others.
19. The Lord did not speakin a dark secret placeor command Jacob's descendantsto search for him in vain.The Lord speaks the truth,and this is what he says
20. to every survivorfrom every nation:“Gather around me!Learn how senseless it isto worship wooden idolsor pray to helpless gods.
21. “Why don't you get togetherand meet me in court?Didn't I tell you long agowhat would happen?I am the only God!There are no others.I bring about justice,and have the power to save.
22. “I invite the whole worldto turn to me and be saved.I alone am God!No others are real.
23. I have made a solemn promise,one that won't be broken:everyone will bow downand worship me.
24. They will admit that I alonecan bring about justice.Everyone who is angry with mewill be terribly ashamedand will turn to me.
25. I, the Lord, will givevictory and great honourto the people of Israel.”