God’s First Answer

Look at the nations[a](A) and observe(B)
be utterly astounded!(C)
For something is taking place in your days
that you will not believe(D)
when you hear about it.(E)
Look! I am raising up(F) the Chaldeans,[b]
that bitter,(G) impetuous nation
that marches across the earth’s open spaces
to seize territories not its own.
They are fierce(H) and terrifying;
their views of justice and sovereignty
stem from themselves.

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Footnotes

  1. Habakkuk 1:5 DSS, LXX, Syr read Look, you treacherous people
  2. Habakkuk 1:6 = the Babylonians

The Lord’s Answer

“Look at the nations and watch—
    and be utterly amazed.(A)
For I am going to do something in your days
    that you would not believe,
    even if you were told.(B)
I am raising up the Babylonians,[a](C)
    that ruthless and impetuous people,
who sweep across the whole earth(D)
    to seize dwellings not their own.(E)
They are a feared and dreaded people;(F)
    they are a law to themselves
    and promote their own honor.

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Footnotes

  1. Habakkuk 1:6 Or Chaldeans