(Alef)Alas! The city once full of people now sits all alone! The prominent lady among the nations has become a widow! The princess who once ruled the provinces has become a forced laborer!

(Alef) Alas! The Lord has covered Daughter Zion with his anger. He has thrown down the splendor of Israel from heaven to earth; he did not protect his temple when he displayed his anger.

(Alef) I am the man who has experienced affliction from the rod of his wrath.

(Alef)Alas! Gold has lost its luster; pure gold loses value. Jewels are scattered on every street corner.