8. It is Egypt that comes like the rising Nile River. It is Egypt that comes like that strong, fast river. Egypt says, ‘I will come and cover the earth. I will destroy the cities and the people in them.’
9. Horse soldiers, charge into battle. Chariot drivers, drive fast. March on, brave soldiers. Soldiers from Cush and Put, carry your shields. Soldiers from Lydia, use your bows.
10. “But on that day, the Lord GOD All-Powerful will win. He will give his enemies the punishment they deserve. His sword will kill until it is finished, until it has satisfied its thirst for blood. Yes, the Lord GOD All-Powerful will kill them as a sacrifice in the land of the north by the Euphrates River.
11. “Egypt, go to Gilead and get some medicine. You will make up many medicines, but they will not help. You will not be healed.
12. The nations will hear you crying. Your cries will be heard all over the earth. One ‘brave soldier’ will run into another ‘brave soldier.’ And both ‘brave soldiers’ will fall down together.”
13. This is the message the Lord spoke to Jeremiah the prophet about Nebuchadnezzar coming to attack Egypt.
14. “Announce this message in Egypt. Tell it in the city of Migdol. Tell it in Memphis and Tahpanhes. ‘Get ready for war, because people all around you are being killed with swords.’