11. It is given to be polished, that it may be handled; the sword is sharpened and polished, to give it into the hand of the slayer.
12. Cry out and wail, son of man; for it is against My people, it is against all the officials of Israel. They are delivered over to the sword with My people, therefore strike your thigh.
13. For there is a testing; and what if even the rod which despises will be no more?" declares the Lord God.
14. "You therefore, son of man, prophesy and clap your hands together; and let the sword be doubled the third time, the sword for the slain. It is the sword for the great one slain, which surrounds them,
15. that their hearts may melt, and many fall at all their gates. I have given the glittering sword. Ah! It is made for striking like lightning, it is wrapped up in readiness for slaughter.
16. Show yourself sharp, go to the right; set yourself; go to the left, wherever your edge is appointed.
17. I will also clap My hands together, and I will appease My wrath; I, the Lord, have spoken."
18. The word of the Lord came to me saying,
19. "As for you, son of man, make two ways for the sword of the king of Babylon to come; both of them will go out of one land. And make a signpost; make it at the head of the way to the city.