¹⁶ This is why I weep
    and my eyes flow with tears.
Anyone who could comfort and strengthen me
    is far from my presence.
My children are desolate,
    for the enemy has prevailed.
¹⁷ Zion stretches out her hands
    but there is no one to comfort her
The Lord has commanded the neighbors of Jacob
    to become his enemies.
In their midst Jerusalem has become
    an unclean thing to be avoided.
¹⁸ The Lord has acted justly,
    for I rebelled against his command.
Listen, all you peoples,
    and behold my suffering.
My maidens and my youths
    have been taken into captivity.