Hosea 11:1-9 ▼

1 When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son.

2 Israel called to the Egyptians even as Israel was leaving them. They kept sacrificing to the Baals and burning offerings to idols.

3 It was I who taught Ephraim to walk, taking them by the hand, but they never knew that I healed them.

4 I led them with human cords, with ropes of love. To them I was like one who eases the yoke from their jaws; I bent down to give them food.

5 Israel will not return to the land of Egypt and Assyria will be his king, because they refused to repent.

6 A sword will whirl through his cities; it will destroy and devour the bars of his gates, because of their schemes.

7 My people are bent on turning from me. Though they call to him on high, he will not exalt them at all.

8 How can I give you up, Ephraim? How can I surrender you, Israel? How can I make you like Admah? How can I treat you like Zeboiim? I have had a change of heart; my compassion is stirred!

9 I will not vent the full fury of my anger; I will not turn back to destroy Ephraim. For I am God and not man, the Holy One among you; I will not come in rage.