16. I have given it over to the burnisherthat he might hold it in his hand,A sword sharpened and burnishedto be put in the hands of an executioner.
17. Cry out and howl, son of man,for it is destined for my people,For all the princes of Israel,victims of the sword with my people.Therefore, slap your thigh,
18. for it is tested, and why not?Since you rejected my staff,should it not happen?—oracle of the Lord God.
19. As for you, son of man, prophesy,and clap your hands!Let the sword strike twice, a third time.It is a sword of slaughter,A sword for slaughtering,whirling around them all,
20. That every heart may tremble;for many will be made to stumble.At all their gatesI have stationed the sword for slaughter,Made it flash lightning,drawn for slaughter.
21. Slash to the right!turn to the left,Wherever your edge is directed!
22. Then I, too, shall clap my hands,and spend my fury.I, the Lord, have spoken.
23. The word of the Lord came to me: