[1] Jerusalem, wake up! Stand up and be strong. Holy city of Zion, dress in your best clothes. Those foreigners who ruined your sacred city won't bother you again. [2] Zion, rise from the dirt! Free yourself from the rope around your neck. [3] The LORD says: My people, you were sold, but not for money; now you will be set free, but not for a payment. [4] Long ago you went to Egypt where you lived as foreigners. Then Assyria was cruel to you, [5] and now another nation has taken you prisoner for no reason at all. Your leaders groan with pain, and day after day my own name is cursed. [6] My people, you will learn who I am and who is speaking because I am here. [7] What a beautiful sight! On the mountains a messenger announces to Jerusalem, "Good news! You're saved. There will be peace. Your God is now King." [8] Everyone on guard duty, sing and celebrate! Look! You can see the LORD returning to Zion. [9] Jerusalem, rise from the ruins! Join in the singing. The LORD has given comfort to his people; he comes to your rescue. [10] The LORD has shown all nations his mighty strength; now everyone will see the saving power of our God. [11] Leave the city of Babylon! Don't touch anything filthy. Wash yourselves. Be ready to carry back everything sacred that belongs to the LORD. [12] You won't need to run. No one is chasing you. The LORD God of Israel will lead and protect you from enemy attacks. [13] The LORD says: My servant will succeed! He will be given great praise and the highest honors. [14] Many were horrified at what happened to him. But everyone who saw him was even more horrified because he suffered until he no longer looked human. [15] My servant will make nations worthy to worship me; kings will be silent as they bow in wonder. They will see and think about things they have never seen or thought about before.
