1
When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son.
2
As they called them, so they went from them: they sacrificed unto the Baals, and burned incense to graven images.
3
And I it was that taught Ephraim to walk, -- He took them upon his arms, -- but they knew not that I healed them.
4
I drew them with bands of a man, with cords of love; and I was to them as they that take off the yoke on their jaws, and I gently caused them to eat.
5
He shall not return into the land of Egypt, but the Assyrian shall be his king; for they refused to return [to me];
6
and the sword shall turn about in his cities, and shall consume his bars, and devour [them], because of their own counsels.
7
Yea, my people are bent upon backsliding from me: though they call them to the Most High, none at all exalteth [him].
8
How shall I give thee over, Ephraim? [how] shall I deliver thee up, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah? [how] shall I set thee as Zeboim? My heart is turned within me, my repentings are kindled together.
9
I will not execute the fierceness of mine anger, I will not again destroy Ephraim; for I am ùGod, and not man, -- the Holy One in the midst of thee: and I will not come in anger.
10
They shall walk after Jehovah; he shall roar like a lion; when he shall roar, then the children shall hasten from the west:
11
they shall hasten as a bird out of Egypt, and as a dove out of the land of Assyria; and I will cause them to dwell in their houses, saith Jehovah.
12
Ephraim encompasseth me about with lies, and the house of Israel with deceit; but Judah yet walketh with ùGod, and with the holy things of truth.
