43 But now Yahweh, the one who created you, Yakov (Jacob),

and who formed you, Yisrael (Yisrael), says this:

Don’t be afraid, because I’ve paid the price to free you.

I’ve called you by name—you belong to me.

2 When you pass through the waters, I’m with you,

≈ and through the rivers, they won’t carry you away.

When you walk through the fire, you won’t get scorched

≈ and the flames won’t burn you up

3 because I’m your god, Yahweh—

≈ your rescuer, Yisrael’s holy one.

I’ve given Egypt (Heb. Mitsrayim) as your ransom—

≈ Ethiopia (Heb. Kush) and Seva in your place

4 since you are precious in my eyes.

≈ You are honoured and I love you,

and I’ll give humankind in your place,

≈ and nations in exchange for your life.

5 Don’t be afraid, because I’m with you.

I’ll bring your descendants from the east,

≈ and I’ll gather you in from the west.

6 I’ll tell the north to hand you over,

≈ and tell the south not to hold you back.

Bring my sons back from distant lands,

≈ and bring my daughters from the ends of the earth—

7 yes, all those who belong to me

and who I’ve created as my showpiece—

those who I formed when I made them.