1. The Lord said:Israel, I promisethat some day all your tribeswill again be my people,and I will be your God.
2. In the desert I was kindto those who escaped death.I gave them peace,and when the time is right,I'll do the same for you.I, the Lord, have spoken.
3. Some time ago, the Lord appeared to me and told me to say:Israel, I will always love you;that's why I've been so patientand kind.
4. You are precious to me,and so I will rebuildyour nation.Once again you will dance for joyand play your tambourines.
5. You will plant vineyardson the hills of Samariaand enjoy the grapes.
16-17. But I, the Lord, tell youto dry your tears.Some day your childrenwill come homefrom the enemy's land.Then all you have done for themwill be greatly rewarded.So don't lose hope.I, the Lord, have spoken.