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3 It was I who taught Ephraim (the northern kingdom of Israel) to walk, taking them by the arms, but they never realized that it was I who healed them. 4 I led them with cords of kindness, with ropes of love; I lifted the yoke from their necks and bent down to feed them. 5 Will they not return to the land of Egypt (land of bondage) and be ruled by Assyria (a step) because they refused to repent? 6 A sword will flash through their cities; it will destroy the bars of their gates and consume them in their own plans. 7 My people are bent on turning from Me. Though they call to the Most High, He will by no means exalt them. 8 How could I give you up, O Ephraim (doubly fruitful)? How could I surrender you, O Israel (he wrestles with God)? How could I make you like Admah (red earth)? How could I treat you like Zeboiim (gazelles)? My heart is turned within Me; My compassion is stirred! 9 I will not execute the full fury of My anger; I will not destroy Ephraim (doubly fruitful) again. For I am God and not man—the Holy One among you—and I will not come in wrath. 10 They will walk after the LORD {YHWH}; He will roar like a lion. When He roars, His children will come trembling from the west. 11 They will come trembling like birds from Egypt (land of bondage) and like doves from the land of Assyria (a step). Then I will settle them in their homes, declares the LORD {YHWH}. 12 Ephraim (doubly fruitful) surrounds Me with lies, the house of Israel (he wrestles with God) with deceit; but Judah (praised) still walks with God and is faithful to the Holy One. Hosea 11:3-12, Berean Annotated Bible. Public domain.
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