Isaiah

The Moabites Seek Refuge in Judah

Like bewildered birds cast out of their nests, the daughters of Moab stay at the fords of Arnon.

From Sela, across the wilderness, they send lambs to the Mount of Zion: are they not the rulers of the land?

They say: “Take counsel, render decisions with justice. Even at high noon let your shade be like the night to hide the fugitives. Do not betray the refugees.

Let the outcasts from Moab sojourn among you; be a refuge for them against the destroyer.” (When the oppressor is no more and the destruction is over and those who trample the land underfoot have gone,

a throne will be established steadfast in love. One from the house of David, for the sake of truth will sit on it; he will administer justice swiftly and judge the people righteously.)

Lamentations Over Moab

We have heard of the pride of Moab, of her arrogance and insolence, of her empty pretensions.

Let her wail then, and let everyone wail for her. Mourn for the raisin cakes of Kir-hareseth.

The fields of Heshbon languish, the vines of Sibmah wither. The tyrants of the nations have trampled down the choicest vines, those that once reached Jazer, spreading towards the desert, stretching out as far as the sea.

Therefore, I weep as Jazer weeps for the vines of Sibmah. I drench you, O Heshbon, O Elealeh, with my tears! For over your fruit and your vintage have been heard loud battle cheers.

But they are gone: joy and gladness have now vanished from your orchards. In the vineyards no more singing is heard, no more shout of joy is raised. In the wine presses no foot treads out wine, no voice shouts in exultation, no heart sings a vintage song.

Like a lyre, therefore, my soul moans for Moab; my heart pines for Kir-hareseth.

When Moab appears on the high places, she will only grow weary; when she goes to pray at the Sanctuary, it will be useless.

This is the word the Lord spoke against Moab in the past. But

now the Lord says: “Within three years, similar to the years of a servant bound by contract, the mighty power of Moab will have lost its respect, and her survivors will be few and weak.”