1. The Lord spoke his word to me. He said,
2. “Son of man, turn to Jerusalem, preach against the holy places. Prophesy against the land of Israel.
3. Tell the land of Israel, ‘This is what the Lord says: I am against you. I will take my sword out of its scabbard and kill the righteous people and the wicked people among you.
4. I’m going to kill the righteous people and the wicked people among you. That is why my sword will come out of its scabbard to be used against everyone from the south to the north.
5. Then everyone will know that I, the Lord, have taken my sword from its scabbard, and I will not put it back again.’
6. “So, son of man, groan with a breaking heart and with bitter crying while the people watch you.
7. When they ask you why you are groaning, say, ‘News has come that will discourage everyone. People’s hands will hang limp, their hearts will lose courage, and their knees will become as weak as water. It’s coming! It will surely take place!’ declares the Almighty Lord.”
8. The Lord spoke his word to me. He said,