O my downtrodden people, crushed like stalks on the threshing floor, what I have heard from the Lord who commands armies, the God of Israel, I have reported to you.

Who planned this for royal Tyre, whose merchants are princes, whose traders are the dignitaries of the earth?

In the past he said to them, “This is where security can be found. Provide security for the one who is exhausted! This is where rest can be found.” But they refused to listen.

Therefore, listen to the Lord’s word, you who mock, you rulers of these people who reside in Jerusalem!

The oxen and donkeys used in plowing will eat seasoned feed winnowed with a shovel and pitchfork.

Certainly you have heard how the kings of Assyria have annihilated all lands. Do you really think you will be rescued?

He will go back the way he came – he will not enter this city,’ says the Lord.

“You, my servant Israel, Jacob whom I have chosen, offspring of Abraham my friend,

They will disappoint you, those you have so faithfully dealt with since your youth. Each strays off in his own direction, leaving no one to rescue you.”

Indeed, nations or kingdoms that do not serve you will perish; such nations will be totally destroyed.

Sharon will become a pasture for sheep, and the Valley of Achor a place where cattle graze; they will belong to my people, who seek me.

As a mother consoles a child, so I will console you, and you will be consoled over Jerusalem.”

The following is a record of what Jeremiah son of Hilkiah prophesied. He was one of the priests who lived at Anathoth in the territory of the tribe of Benjamin.

If you stop doing these things, I will allow you to continue to live in this land which I gave to your ancestors as a lasting possession.

Instead they have followed the stubborn inclinations of their own hearts. They have paid allegiance to the gods called Baal, as their fathers taught them to do.

You people of Israel, listen to what the Lord has to say to you.

This is your fate, the destiny to which I have appointed you, because you have forgotten me and have trusted in false gods.

The Lord spoke to Jeremiah about the drought.

For he did not kill me before I came from the womb, making my pregnant mother’s womb my grave forever.

The answer will come back, “It is because they broke their covenant with the Lord their God and worshiped and served other gods.”