19 The cities of the Negev are under siege;
no one can help them.
All of Judah has been taken into exile,
taken completely into exile.
20 Look up and see
those coming from the north.(A)
Where is the flock entrusted to you,
the sheep that were your pride?

The Destiny of Jerusalem

21 What will you say when he appoints
close friends as leaders over you,
ones you yourself trained?
Won’t labor pains seize you,(B)
as they do a woman in labor?

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19 The cities in the Negev will be shut up,
    and there will be no one to open them.
All Judah(A) will be carried into exile,
    carried completely away.

20 Look up and see
    those who are coming from the north.(B)
Where is the flock(C) that was entrusted to you,
    the sheep of which you boasted?
21 What will you say when the Lord sets over you
    those you cultivated as your special allies?(D)
Will not pain grip you
    like that of a woman in labor?(E)

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