Look, I am about to empower the Babylonians, that ruthless and greedy nation. They sweep across the surface of the earth, seizing dwelling places that do not belong to them.

They are frightening and terrifying; they decide for themselves what is right.

Their horses are faster than leopards and more alert than wolves in the desert. Their horses gallop, their horses come a great distance; like a vulture they swoop down quickly to devour their prey.

All of them intend to do violence; every face is determined. They take prisoners as easily as one scoops up sand.

They mock kings and laugh at rulers. They laugh at every fortified city; they build siege ramps and capture them.

They sweep by like the wind and pass on. But the one who considers himself a god will be held guilty."

You are too just to tolerate evil; you are unable to condone wrongdoing. So why do you put up with such treacherous people? Why do you say nothing when the wicked devour those more righteous than they are?

Your creditors will suddenly attack; those who terrify you will spring into action, and they will rob you.

When the mountains see you, they shake. The torrential downpour sweeps through. The great deep shouts out; it lifts its hands high.

You pierce the heads of his warriors with a spear. They storm forward to scatter us; they shout with joy as if they were plundering the poor with no opposition.