Polish the arrows; gather the shields. Jehovah has raised up the spirit of the kings of the Medes. For His plan is against Babylon, to destroy it; because it is the vengeance of Jehovah, the vengeance of His temple.

Set up the banner on the walls of Babylon; make the guard strong; set up the watchmen; prepare the ambushes. For Jehovah has both planned and done that which He spoke against the inhabitants of Babylon.

Suffer evil, O people, and be broken! Give ear, all you from distant lands. Gird yourselves and be broken. Gird yourselves and be broken!

Take counsel and make plans, but they will be frustrated. Speak a word, but it shall not stand; for the Mighty God is with us.

Prepare the table, keep watch in the watchtower, eat, drink. Arise, you rulers, and anoint the shield.

Proclaim this among the nations: Consecrate a war; wake up the mighty men; let all the men of war draw near; let them come up.

The one scattering is coming up against your face. Guard the rampart; watch the way; make the loins strong, firm up your power exceedingly.

Draw your water for the siege. Strengthen your fortifications. Go into the clay and tread in the mortar. Make the mold strong.