2
But the more Ia called Israel, the further they went from me.b1 They sacrificed to the Baals2 and they burned incense to images.33
It was I who taught Ephraim to walk, taking them by the arms;4 but they did not realize it was I who healed5 them.
4
I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love;6 I lifted the yoke7 from their neck and bent down to feed8 them.95
"Will they not return to Egypt10 and will not Assyria11 rule over them because they refuse to repent?126
Swords13 will flash in their cities, will destroy the bars14 of their gates and put an end to their plans.
7
My people are determined to turn15 from me.16 Even if they call to the Most High, he will by no means exalt them.
8
"How can I give you up,17 Ephraim?18 How can I hand you over, Israel? How can I treat you like Admah? How can I make you like Zeboiim?19 My heart is changed within me; all my compassion20 is aroused.219
I will not carry out my fierce anger,22 nor will I turn and devastate23 Ephraim. For I am God, and not man24-- the Holy One25 among you. I will not come in wrath.c10
They will follow the LORD; he will roar26 like a lion.27 When he roars, his children will come trembling28 from the west.2911
They will come trembling like birds from Egypt, like doves30 from Assyria.31 I will settle them in their homes,"32 declares the LORD.
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