Verses 35-38 are a poetic unit, as is shown by the repetition of the phrase “a sword is upon.” In consonantal Hebrew the phrase translated “a drought is upon” (v. 38) is identical with that translated “a sword is upon.” The Syriac gives the same translation throughout.
Wise men.
Babylon was famous for her wise men, upon whom the kings depended for guidance (see Dan. 2:2, 12; Dan. 5:15).