23. This is a message about Damascus.“Hamath and Arpad are worried because they heard the bad news.They melt in fear.They are troubled like a sea that can’t be calmed.
24. The people of Damascus are weak.They turn to flee, but panic grips them.Anguish and pain grip them like a woman in labor.
25. Why isn’t that famous, happy city abandoned?
26. That is why its young men will die in the streets,and its soldiers will be silenced that day,”declares the Lord of Armies.
27. “I will set fire to the walls of Damascusand burn down Benhadad’s palaces.”
28. This is about the tribe of Kedar and the kingdoms of Hazor that King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon defeated. This is what the Lord says:Get ready, attack Kedar,and loot the people from the east.
29. Their tents and their flocks will be taken.Their tent curtains, utensils, and camels will be carried away.People will shout to them, “Terror is all around!”
30. Run far away! Find a place to hide,inhabitants of Hazor, declares the Lord.King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon has made plans against youand intends to attack you.