1 For Israel was a child, and I loved him; and from Egypt I called my son.

2 They called them, so they went away from the face of them. They offered to Baalim, and made sacrifice to simulacra.

3 And I as a nurse of Ephraim bare them in mine arms, and they knew not, that I kept them.

4 I shall draw them in the ropes of Adam, in the bonds of charity. And I shall be to them as he that enhanceth the yoke on the cheeks of them; and I bowed down to him that he should eat.

5 He shall not turn again into the land of Egypt. And Assur, he shall be king of him, for they would not turn again to me.

6 A sword began in the cities thereof, and it shall waste the chosen men thereof, and shall eat the heads of them.

7 And my people shall hang, at my coming again. But a yoke shall be put to them altogether, that shall not be taken away.

8 How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? shall I defend thee, Israel? how shall I give thee up? As Admah I shall set thee; as Zeboiim. Mine heart is turned within me; my repentance is disturbed [or troubled] altogether.

9 I shall not do the strong vengeance of my wrath. I shall not turn, to lose Ephraim; for I am God, and not man. I am Holy in the midst of thee, and I shall not enter into a city.

10 They shall go after the Lord. He shall roar as a lion, for he shall roar, and the sons of the sea shall dread.

11 And they shall fly away as a bird from Egypt, and as a culver from the land of Assyrians. And I shall set them in their houses, saith the Lord.

12 Ephraim compassed me in denying, the house of Israel in guile. But Judah a witness went down with God, and with faithful saints.