1. But those who have suffered will no longer be in pain. The territories of Zebulun and Naphtali in Galilee were once hated. But this land of the Gentiles across the River Jordan and along the Mediterranean Sea will be greatly respected.
2. Those who walked in the darkhave seen a bright light.And it shines upon everyonewho lives in the landof darkest shadows.
3. Our Lord, you have madeyour nation stronger.Because of you, its peopleare glad and celebratelike workers at harvest timeor like soldiers dividing upwhat they have taken.
4. You have broken the powerof those who abusedand enslaved your people.You have rescued themjust as you saved your peoplefrom Midian.
5. The boots of marching warriorsand the blood-stained uniformshave been fed to flamesand eaten by fire.
6. A child has been born for us.We have been given a sonwho will be our ruler.His names will beWonderful Adviserand Mighty God,Eternal Fatherand Prince of Peace.
7. His power will never end;peace will last for ever.He will rule David's kingdomand make it grow strong.He will always rulewith honesty and justice.The Lord All-Powerfulwill make certainthat all of this is done.