5
With a noise like chariots Over mountaintops they leap, Like the noise of a flaming fire that devours the stubble, Like a strong people set in battle array.
6
Before them the people writhe in pain; All faces are drained of color.
7
They run like mighty men, They climb the wall like men of war; Every one marches in formation, And they do not break ranks.
8
They do not push one another; Every one marches in his own column. Though they lunge between the weapons, They are not cut down.
9
They run to and fro in the city, They run on the wall; They climb into the houses, They enter at the windows like a thief.
10
The earth quakes before them, The heavens tremble; The sun and moon grow dark, And the stars diminish their brightness.
11
The Lord gives voice before His army, For His camp is very great; For strong is the One who executes His word. For the day of the Lord is great and very terrible; Who can endure it?
12
"Now, therefore," says the Lord, "Turn to Me with all your heart, With fasting, with weeping, and with mourning."
13
So rend your heart, and not your garments; Return to the Lord your God, For He is gracious and merciful, Slow to anger, and of great kindness; And He relents from doing harm.
14
Who knows if He will turn and relent, And leave a blessing behind Him-- A grain offering and a drink offering For the Lord your God?
15
Blow the trumpet in Zion, Consecrate a fast, Call a sacred assembly;