15. If he holds back the rain, the earth becomes a desert.If he releases the waters, they flood the earth.
16. Yes, strength and wisdom are his;deceivers and deceived are both in his power.
17. He leads counselors away, stripped of good judgment;wise judges become fools.
18. He removes the royal robe of kings.They are led away with ropes around their waist.
19. He leads priests away, stripped of status;he overthrows those with long years in power.
20. He silences the trusted adviserand removes the insight of the elders.
21. He pours disgrace upon princesand disarms the strong.
22. “He uncovers mysteries hidden in darkness;he brings light to the deepest gloom.
23. He builds up nations, and he destroys them.He expands nations, and he abandons them.
24. He strips kings of understandingand leaves them wandering in a pathless wasteland.
25. They grope in the darkness without a light.He makes them stagger like drunkards.