Now he had heard them say concerning Tirhakah king of Ethiopia, saying: “He has come out to fight against you.” When he heard it, he sent messengers to Hezekiah saying:
Bear the burden on your shoulder in their sight. Carry it out in the darkness; cover your face so that you cannot see the ground. For I have made you a sign for the house of Israel.”
A sword will come against Egypt. Anguish will be in Ethiopia when the slain fall in Egypt. They will take away her abundance. Her foundations will be torn down.
Thus says Adonai Elohim: “Those who support Egypt will fall. The pride of her power will collapse. From Migdol to Syene they will fall within her by the sword.” It is a declaration of Adonai.
Then take an iron plate and set it up as an iron wall between you and the city. Set your face toward it so that it is under siege. So you will lay siege against it. This will be a sign to the house of Israel.
Listen well, Joshua kohen gadol , both you and your companions seated before you, because they are men who are a sign—behold, I will bring forth My servant the Branch.
For 40 years, corresponding to the number of the 40 days you explored the land—one year for each day—you will suffer for your iniquities and know My hostility.