Ezekiel 21:9-17 ▼

9 “Son of man, prophesy and say, ‘Thus says the LORD.’ Say, ‘A sword, a sword [from Babylon] is sharpened And also polished!

10 ‘It is sharpened to make a slaughter, Polished to flash and glimmer like lightning!’ Shall we then rejoice [when such a disaster approaches]? But it rejects and views with contempt the scepter of My son [Judah].

11 The sword [of Babylon] is ready to be polished so that it may be handled and put to use; the sword is sharpened and polished to be put in the hand of the slayer (Nebuchadnezzar).

12 Cry out and wail, son of man, for it is against My people; it is against all the princes of Israel. They are thrown to the sword along with My [terrified] people. Therefore strike your thigh and strike your chest [in grief].

13 For this sword has been tested [on others]; and what if it views with contempt the scepter [of Judah]? The scepter shall be no more [but shall be swept away],” says the Lord GOD.

14 “Therefore, son of man, prophesy and strike your hands together; and let the sword be doubled the third time [in intensity], the sword for the slain. It is the sword for the great slaughter which surrounds them [so that no one can escape, even by hiding in their inner rooms],

15 so that hearts may melt, and many will fall at their gates. I have given the glittering sword. Ah! It is made [to flash] like lightning; it is pointed and sharpened for slaughter.

16 Turn O sword and cut right or cut left, whichever way your thirst for blood and your edge direct you.

17 I will also strike My hands together, and I will cause My wrath to rest. I the LORD have spoken.”