A Message about Philistia

28This message came to me the year King Ahaz died:^f

29Do not rejoice, you Philistines,

that the rod that struck you is broken—

that the king who attacked you is dead.

For from that snake a more poisonous snake will be born,

a fiery serpent to destroy you!

30I will feed the poor in my pasture;

the needy will lie down in peace.

But as for you, I will wipe you out with famine

and destroy the few who remain.

31Wail at the gates! Weep in the cities!

Melt with fear, you Philistines!

A powerful army comes like smoke from the north.

Each soldier rushes forward eager to fight.

32What should we tell the Philistine messengers? Tell them,

“The Lord has built Jerusalem^g;

its walls will give refuge to his oppressed people.”