26
rulers and elders groaned, young women and young men became faint, the beauty of the women faded.
27
Every bridegroom took up the lament; she who sat in the bridal chamber was mourning.
28
Even the land trembled for its inhabitants, and all the house of Jacob was clothed with shame.
29
Two years later the king sent to the cities of Judah a chief collector of tribute, and he came to Jerusalem with a large force.
30
Deceitfully he spoke peaceable words to them, and they believed him; but he suddenly fell upon the city, dealt it a severe blow, and destroyed many people of Israel.
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.