¹² The kings of the earth did not believe,
    nor did any of the peoples of the world,
that enemies and foes could enter
    the gates of Jerusalem.^(A)

¹³ But it happened because of the sins of her prophets
    and the iniquities of her priests,^(B)
who shed within her
    the blood^(C) of the righteous.

¹⁴ Now they grope through the streets
    as if they were blind.^(D)
They are so defiled with blood^(E)
    that no one dares to touch their garments.

¹⁵ “Go away! You are unclean!” people cry to them.
    “Away! Away! Don’t touch us!”
When they flee and wander^(F) about,
    people among the nations say,
    “They can stay here no longer.”^(G)

¹⁶ The Lord himself has scattered them;
    he no longer watches over them.^(H)
The priests are shown no honor,
    the elders^(I) no favor.^(J)