10. All of us who are living came originally from her, and there are more to come. Almost all of us go straight to destruction — the vast multitude of earth's children are lost.
11. So who has more right to mourn, you for your one son, or the earth, which has lost so many?
12-13. I know what you are thinking; you think that your sorrow is worse than the earth's. You think that it is only natural for earth's multitudes to live and then die, but you have lost your own flesh and blood which you brought to birth with such trouble and pain. But let me tell you
14. that from the time God created the earth she has suffered as much in producing human beings for God as you did in childbirth.
15. So keep your tears to yourself, and be brave about what has happened to you.
16. If you will accept God's decision as just, you will get your son back at the right time, and you will receive the praise due to a mother.
17. Go back to the city and to your husband.”
18. “No,” she answered, “I will never go back; I am going to stay here and die.”
19-20. “Don't do that,” I continued. “Consider the misfortunes and sorrows of Jerusalem, and you won't feel so sorry for yourself.
21. You can see that our place of worship is in ruins, our altar has been torn down, our Temple has been destroyed,
22. our musical instruments lie quiet, our hymns have been silenced, our joy has ended, the light of the sacred lamp has been put out, our Covenant Box has been carried off, our sacred utensils have been desecrated, the name of our God has been profaned, our leaders have been dishonoured, our priests have been burnt to death, our Levites have been taken captive, our virgins have been raped, our wives have been violated, our devout men have been carried off, our children have been abandoned, our young people have been made slaves, and our strong soldiers have been made helpless.
23. Worst of all, Jerusalem, once marked as God's own city, has lost its glory and has been handed over to our enemies.
24. So put aside all your sorrow and grief. May God Most High, the Almighty, be merciful to you and give you peace. May he give you rest from your troubles.”
25. While I was speaking to the woman, her face suddenly began to shine with a light that flashed like lightning. I was afraid to stand near her and wondered what all this meant.
26. Suddenly she let out a loud and terrifying cry that shook the earth.
27. When I looked up, I could no longer see the woman, but there was a city built on huge foundations. I was afraid and shouted,