The Lord’s Second Reply

2Then the Lord said to me,

“Write my answer plainly on tablets,

so that a runner can carry the correct message to others.

3This vision is for a future time.

It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled.

If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently,

for it will surely take place.

It will not be delayed.

4“Look at the proud!

They trust in themselves, and their lives are crooked.

But the righteous will live by their faithfulness to God.*2:3b-4 Greek version reads If the vision is delayed, wait patiently, / for it will surely come and not delay. / ⁴I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away. / But the righteous person will live by my faith. Compare Rom 1:17; Gal 3:11; Heb 10:37-38.

5Wealth*2:5a As in Dead Sea Scroll 1QpHab; other Hebrew manuscripts read Wine. is treacherous,

and the arrogant are never at rest.

They open their mouths as wide as the grave,*2:5b Hebrew as Sheol.

and like death, they are never satisfied.

In their greed they have gathered up many nations

and swallowed many peoples.