19. The cities in the Southern Desertare surrounded;no one can get in or out.Everyone in Judahwill be taken away.
20. Jerusalem, you were so proudof ruling the people of Judah.But where are they now?Look north, and you will seeyour enemies approaching.
21. You once trusted them to help,but now I'll let them rule you.What do you say about that?You will be in painlike a woman giving birth.
22. Do you know whyyour clothes were torn offand you were abused?It was becauseof your terrible sins.
23. Can you ever changeand do what's right?Can people change the colourof their skin,or can a leopardremove its spots?If so, then perhaps you can changeand learn to do right.
24. I will scatter you,just as the desert windblows husks from graintossed in the air.
25. I won't change my mind.I, the Lord, have spoken.You rejected meand worshipped false gods.
26-27. You were married to me,but you were unfaithful.You even became a prostituteby worshipping disgusting godson hilltops and in fields.So I'll rip off your clothesand leave you naked and ashamedfor everyone to see.You are doomed!Will you ever be worthyto worship me again?