1Ask ye of Jehovah rain in the time of the latter rain , even of Jehovah that maketh lightnings; and he will give them showers of rain , to every one grass in the field . 2For the teraphim have spoken vanity , and the diviners have seen a lie ; and they have told false dreams , they comfort in vain : therefore they go their way like sheep , they are afflicted , because there is no shepherd . 3Mine anger is kindled against the shepherds , and I will punish the he-goats; for Jehovah of hosts hath visited his flock , the house of Judah , and will make them as his goodly horse in the battle .
Divine Leadership and Guidance
4From him shall come forth the corner-stone, from him the nail , from him the battle bow , from him every ruler together . 5And they shall be as mighty men , treading down their enemies in the mire of the streets in the battle ; and they shall fight , because Jehovah is with them ; and the riders on horses shall be confounded . 6And I will strengthen the house of Judah , and I will save the house of Joseph , and I will bring them back ; for I have mercy upon them ; and they shall be as though I had not cast them off : for I am Jehovah their God , and I will hear them .
Judgment on Enemies
7And they of Ephraim shall be like a mighty man , and their heart shall rejoice as through wine ; yea, their children shall see it , and rejoice ; their heart shall be glad in Jehovah . 8I will hiss for them , and gather them ; for I have redeemed them ; and they shall increase as they have increased . 9And I will sow them among the peoples ; and they shall remember me in far countries ; and they shall live with their children , and shall return .
Restoration of Israel
10I will bring them again also out of the land of Egypt , and gather them out of Assyria; and I will bring them into the land of Gilead and Lebanon ; and place shall not be found for them . 11And he will pass through the sea of affliction , and will smite the waves in the sea , and all the depths of the Nile shall dry up ; and the pride of Assyria shall be brought down , and the sceptre of Egypt shall depart . 12And I will strengthen them in Jehovah ; and they shall walk up and down in his name , saith Jehovah .