26
rulers and elders groaned, maidens and young men became faint, the beauty of women faded.
27
Every bridegroom took up the lament; she who sat in the bridal chamber was mourning.
28
Even the land shook 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.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the 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.