¹⁹ The cities of the Negeb to the south of Jerusalem have closed their gates against the enemy. They must defend themselves, for Jerusalem cannot help;^[a] and all Judah shall be taken away as slaves.

²⁰ See the armies marching from the north! Where is your flock, Jerusalem,^[b] your beautiful flock he gave you to take care of? ²¹ How will you feel when he sets your allies over you as your rulers? You will writhe in pain like a woman having a child.