3. In the past, you were slaves. People forced you to work hard. But the Lord will take away the hard work you were forced to do.
4. At that time you will begin to sing this song about the king of Babylon: The king was cruel when he ruled us, but now his rule is finished.
5. The Lord breaks the scepter of evil rulers; he takes away their power.
6. In anger, the king of Babylon beat the people. He never stopped beating them. He was an evil ruler who ruled in anger. He never stopped hurting people.
7. But now, the whole country rests and is quiet. Now the people begin to celebrate.