Those who lived in the dark, in death’s shadow were prisoners in misery. They were held in iron chains
So the Lord made the army commanders of the king of Assyria invade Judah. They took Manasseh captive, put a hook in his nose, put him in bronze shackles, and brought him to Babylon.
Let the darkness and long shadows claim it as their own. Let a dark cloud hang over it. Let the gloom terrify it.
They hurt his feet with shackles, and cut into his neck with an iron collar.
You will give sight to the blind, bring prisoners out of prisons, and bring those who live in darkness out of dungeons.
The people who walk in darkness will see a bright light. The light will shine on those who live in the land of death’s shadow.
Don’t laugh at me, my enemies. Although I’ve fallen, I will get up. Although I sit in the dark, the Lord is my light.
Then the king told his servants, ‘Tie his hands and feet, and throw him outside into the darkness. People will cry and be in extreme pain there.’
The people who lived in darkness have seen a bright light. A light has risen for those who live in a land overshadowed by death.”
He will give light to those who live in the dark and in death’s shadow. He will guide us into the way of peace.”