# by the sword, famine, and plague

Death by the sword refers to death in battle. Alternate translation: "in battle and by famine and plague" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

# falling on his knees before

This symbolic act represents surrender. Alternate translation: "surrendering to" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

# closed in against you

"attacked you from all sides"

# He will escape with his life

The one who surrenders to the Babylonians will escape with his life, even though he will lose all his possessions.