7
Therefore thus says the LORD of hosts: "Behold, I will refine them and test them, for what else can I do, because of my people?
8
Their tongue is a deadly arrow; it speaks deceitfully; with his mouth each speaks peaceably to his neighbor, but in his heart he plans an ambush for him.
9
Shall I not punish them for these things? says the LORD; and shall I not avenge myself on a nation such as this?
10
"Take up weeping and wailing for the mountains, and a lamentation for the pastures of the wilderness, because they are laid waste so that no one passes through, and the lowing of cattle is not heard; both the birds of the air and the beasts have fled and are gone.
11
I will make Jerusalem a heap of ruins, a lair of jackals; and I will make the cities of Judah a desolation, without inhabitant."