4This is what the Sovereign Lord says: “Long ago my people chose to live in Egypt. Now they are oppressed by Assyria. 5What is this?” asks the Lord. “Why are my people enslaved again? Those who rule them shout in exultation.*52:5a As in Dead Sea Scrolls; Masoretic Text reads Those who rule them wail. My name is blasphemed all day long.*52:5b Greek version reads The Gentiles continually blaspheme my name because of you. Compare Rom 2:24. 6But I will reveal my name to my people, and they will come to know its power. Then at last they will recognize that I am the one who speaks to them.”

7How beautiful on the mountains

are the feet of the messenger who brings good news,

the good news of peace and salvation,

the news that the God of Israel*52:7 Hebrew of Zion. reigns!

8The watchmen shout and sing with joy,

for before their very eyes

they see the Lord returning to Jerusalem.*52:8 Hebrew to Zion.

9Let the ruins of Jerusalem break into joyful song,

for the Lord has comforted his people.

He has redeemed Jerusalem.

10The Lord has demonstrated his holy power

before the eyes of all the nations.

All the ends of the earth will see

the victory of our God.

11Get out! Get out and leave your captivity,

where everything you touch is unclean.

Get out of there and purify yourselves,

you who carry home the sacred objects of the Lord.

12You will not leave in a hurry,

running for your lives.

For the Lord will go ahead of you;

yes, the God of Israel will protect you from behind.