30:18 The Lord says,

“I will restore the ruined houses of the descendants of Jacob.

I will show compassion on their ruined homes. ¹ 

Every city will be rebuilt on its former ruins. ² 

Every fortified dwelling will occupy its traditional site. ³ 

30:19 Out of those places you will hear songs of thanksgiving ⁴ 

and the sounds of laughter and merriment.

I will increase their number and they will not dwindle away. ⁵ 

I will bring them honor and they will no longer be despised.

30:20 The descendants of Jacob will enjoy their former privileges.

Their community will be reestablished in my favor ⁶ 

and I will punish all who try to oppress them.

30:21 One of their own people will be their leader.

Their ruler will come from their own number. ⁷ 

I will invite him to approach me, and he will do so. ⁸ 

For no one would dare approach me on his own. ⁹ 

I, the Lord, affirm it! ¹⁰ 

30:22 Then you will again be my people

and I will be your God. ¹¹