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.