3 The Lord, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, and every drop of water, 2 all their heroes and soldiers, fortune-tellers and elders, 3 army officers and high officials, advisers, skilled sorcerers, and astrologers. 4 I will make boys their leaders, and toddlers their rulers. 5 People will oppress each other— and vulgar people will sneer at the honorable. 6 In those days a man will say to his brother, Take charge of this heap of ruins!” 7 But he will reply, Don’t put me in charge!” 8 For Jerusalem will stumble, They provoke him to his face. 9 The very look on their faces gives them away. They have brought destruction upon themselves. 10 Tell the godly that all will be well for them. They will enjoy the rich reward they have earned! 11 But the wicked are doomed, for they will get exactly what they deserve. 12 Childish leaders oppress my people, they send you down the wrong road. 13 The LORD takes his place in court and presents his case against his people. 14 The LORD comes forward to pronounce judgment Your houses are filled with things stolen from the poor. 15 How dare you crush my people, demands the Lord, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies. 16 The LORD says, “Beautiful Zion is haughty: tinkling her ankle bracelets. 17 So the Lord will send scabs on her head; the LORD will make beautiful Zion bald.” 18 On that day of judgment ornaments, headbands, crescent necklaces, 19 earrings, bracelets, and veils; 20 scarves, ankle bracelets, sashes, perfumes, and charms; 21 rings, jewels, 22 party clothes, gowns, capes, and purses; 23 mirrors, fine linen garments, head ornaments, and shawls. 24 Instead of smelling of sweet perfume, she will stink. Shame will replace her beauty. 25 The men of the city will be killed with the sword, and her warriors will die in battle. 26 The gates of Zion will weep and mourn. huddled on the ground.