[1] When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of
Egypt. [2] The more [the prophets] called them, the more they went from
them: they sacrificed to the Baals, and burned incense to engraved images.
[3] Yet I taught Ephraim to walk; I took them on my arms; but they didn`t
know that I healed them. [4] I drew them with cords of a man, with bands of
love; and I was to them as those who lift up the yoke on their jaws; and I
laid food before them. [5] They shall not return into the land of Egypt;
but the Assyrian shall be their king, because they refused to return [to
me]. [6] The sword shall fall on their cities, and shall consume their
bars, and devour [them], because of their own counsels. [7] My people are
bent on backsliding from me: though they call them to [him who is] on high,
none at all will exalt [him]. [8] How shall I give you up, Ephraim? [how]
shall I cast you off, Israel? how shall I make you as Admah? [how] shall I
set you as Zeboiim? my heart is turned within me, my compassion is aroused.
[9] I will not execute the fierceness of my anger, I will not return to
destroy Ephraim: for I am God, and not man; the Holy One in the midst of
you; and I will not come in wrath. [10] They shall walk after Yahweh, who
will roar like a lion; for he will roar, and the children shall come
trembling from the west. [11] They shall come trembling as a bird out of
Egypt, and as a dove out of the land of Assyria; and I will make them to
dwell in their houses, says Yahweh. [12] Ephraim compasses me about with
falsehood, and the house of Israel with deceit; but Judah yet rules with
God, and is faithful with the Holy One.