[1] This is a message about a desert beside the sea: Enemies from a hostile nation attack like a whirlwind from the Southern Desert. [2] What a horrible vision was shown to me- a vision of betrayal and destruction. Tell Elam and Media to surround and attack the Babylonians. The LORD has sworn to end the suffering they caused. [3] I'm in terrible pain like a woman giving birth. I'm shocked and hurt so much that I can't hear or see. [4] My head spins; I'm horrified! Early evening, my favorite time, has become a nightmare. [5] In Babylon the high officials were having a feast. They were eating and drinking, when someone shouted, "Officers, take your places! Grab your shields." [6] The LORD said to me, "Send guards to find out what's going on. [7] When they see cavalry troops and columns of soldiers on donkeys and camels, tell them to be ready!" [8] Then a guard said, "I have stood day and night on this watchtower, Lord. [9] Now I see column after column of cavalry troops." Right away someone shouted, "Babylon has fallen! Every idol in the city lies broken on the ground." [10] Then I said, "My people, you have suffered terribly, but I have a message for you from the LORD All-Powerful, the God of Israel." [11] This is a message about Dumah: From the country of Seir, someone shouts to me, "Guard, how much longer before daylight?" [12] From my guard post, I answered, "Morning will soon be here, but night will return. If you want to know more, come back later." [13] This is a message for Arabs who live in the barren desert in the region of Dedan: You must order your caravans [14] to bring water for those who are thirsty. You people of Tema must bring food for the hungry refugees. [15] They are worn out and weary from being chased by enemies with swords and arrows. [16] The Lord said to me: A year from now the glory of the people of Kedar will all come to an end, just as a worker's contract ends after a year. [17] Only a few of their warriors will be left with bows and arrows. This is a promise that I, the LORD God of Israel, have made.
