|
1 Just as the morning passes, so has the king of Israel passed by. For Israel was a child and I loved him; and out of Egypt I called my son. 2 They called them, and so they departed before their face. They offered victims to the Baals, and they sacrificed to graven images. 3 And I was like a foster father to Ephraim. I carried them in my arms. And they did not know that I healed them. 4 I will draw them with the cords of Adam, with the bands of love. And I will be to them like one who raises the yoke over their jaws. And I will reach down to him so that he may eat. 5 He will not return to the land of Egypt, but Assur himself will be the king over him, because they were not willing to be converted. 6 The sword has begun in his cities, and it will consume his elect and devour their heads. 7 And my people will long for my return. But a yoke will be imposed on them together, which will not be taken away. 8 How will I provide for you, Ephraim; how will I protect you, Israel? How will I provide for you as for Adam; will I set you like Zeboiim? My heart has changed within me; together with my regret, it has been stirred up. 9 I will not act on the fury of my wrath. I will not turn back to utterly destroy Ephraim. For I am God, and not man, the Divine in your midst, and I will not advance upon the city. Hosea 11:1-9, Catholic Public Domain Version. Public domain.
|
