3. that I am about to punish them. I will pull out my sword and have it ready to kill everyone, whether good or evil.
4. From south to north, people will die,
5. knowing that my sword will never be put away.
6. Ezekiel, groan in sorrow and despair so that everyone can hear you.
7. When they ask why you are groaning, tell them you have terrifying news that will make them faint and tremble in fear and lose all courage. These things will happen soon. I, the Lord God, make this promise!
8. The Lord said:
9-10. Ezekiel, son of man, tell the people of Jerusalem:I have sharpened my swordto slaughter you;it is shiny and will flashlike lightning!Don't celebrate—punishment is coming,because everyone has ignoredmy warnings.
11. My sword has been polished;it's sharp and ready to kill.
12. Groan in sorrow, Ezekiel;the sword is drawn againstmy people and their leaders.They will die!So give up all hope.
13. I am testing my people,and they can do nothingto stop me.I, the Lord, have spoken.
14. Ezekiel, warn my people,then celebrate my victoryby clapping your hands.My vicious sword will attackagain and again,killing my peoplewith every stroke.
15. They will lose all courageand stumble with fear.My slaughtering swordis waiting at every gate,flashing and ready to kill.
16. It will slash right and left,wherever the blade is pointed.
17. Then I will stop being angry,and I will clap my handsin victory.I, the Lord, have spoken.