2The more [the prophets] called them, the more they went from them: they sacrificed to the Baals, and burned incense to engraved images.
3Yet I taught Ephraim to walk; I took them on my arms; but they didn`t know that I healed them.
4I 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.
5They shall not return into the land of Egypt; but the Assyrian shall be their king, because they refused to return [to me].
6The sword shall fall on their cities, and shall consume their bars, and devour [them], because of their own counsels.
7My people are bent on backsliding from me: though they call them to [him who is] on high, none at all will exalt [him].
8How 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.
