8. The Lord spoke his word to me, saying:
9. “Human, prophesy and say, ‘This is what the Lord says:A sword, a sword,made sharp and polished.
10. It is made sharp for the killing.It is polished to flash like lightning.“ ‘You are not happy about this horrible punishment by the sword. But my son Judah, you did not change when you were only beaten with a rod.
11. The sword should be polished.It is meant to be held in the hand.It is made sharp and polished,ready for the hand of a killer.
12. Shout and yell, human,because the sword is meant for my people,for all the rulers of Israel.They will be killed by the sword,along with my people.So beat your chest in sadness.
13. “ ‘The test will come. And Judah, who is hated by the armies of Babylon, will not last, says the Lord God.’
14. “So, human, prophesyand clap your hands.Let the sword striketwo or three times.It is a sword meant for killing,a sword meant for much killing.This sword surrounds the people to be killed.
15. Their hearts will melt with fear,and many people will die.I have placed the killing swordat all their city gates.Oh! The sword is made to flash like lightning.It is held, ready for killing.
16. Sword, cut on the right side;then cut on the left side.Cut anywhere your blade is turned.
17. I will also clap my handsand use up my anger.I, the Lord, have spoken.”
18. The Lord spoke his word to me, saying: