1. In the beginning of the reign of Joakim the son of Josias king of Juda, came this word from the Lord, saying:
2. Thus saith the Lord: Stand in the court of the house of the Lord, and speak to all the cities of Juda, out of which they come, to adore in the house of the Lord, all the words which I have commanded thee to speak unto them: leave not out one word.
3. If so be they will hearken and be converted every one from his evil way; that I may repent me of the evil that I think to do unto them for the wickedness of their doings.
4. And thou shalt say to them: Thus saith the Lord: If you will not hearken to me to walk in my law, which I have given to you:
5. To give ear to the words of my servants the prophets, whom I sent to you rising up early: and sending, and you have not hearkened:
6. I will make this house like Silo: and I will make this city a curse to all the nations of the earth.