1. This is a message about Babylonia.Like a whirlwind sweeping across the desert, disaster will come from a terrifying land.
2. I have seen a vision of cruel events, a vision of betrayal and destruction.Army of Elam, attack! Army of Media, lay siege to the cities! God will put an end to the suffering which Babylon has caused.
3. What I saw and heard in the vision has filled me with terror and pain, pain like that of a woman in labour.
4. My head is spinning, and I am trembling with fear. I had been longing for evening to come, but it has brought me nothing but terror.
5. In the vision a banquet is ready; rugs are spread for the guests to sit on. They are eating and drinking. Suddenly the command rings out: “Officers! Prepare your shields!”
6. Then the Lord said to me, “Go and post a sentry, and tell him to report what he sees.