Hosea 12:1-8 ▼

1 Ephraim feeds on wind, And pursues the east wind continually; He multiplies lies and violence. Moreover, he makes a covenant with Assyria, And oil is carried to Egypt.

2 The LORD also has a dispute with Judah, And will punish Jacob according to his ways; He will repay him according to his deeds.

3 In the womb he took his brother by the heel, And in his maturity he contended with God.

4 Yes, he wrestled with the angel and prevailed; He wept and sought His favor. He found Him at Bethel And there He spoke with us,

5 Even the LORD, the God of hosts, The LORD is His name.

6 Therefore, return to your God, Observe kindness and justice, And wait for your God continually.

7 A merchant, in whose hands are false balances, He loves to oppress.

8 And Ephraim said, “Surely I have become rich, I have found wealth for myself; In all my labors they will find in me No iniquity, which would be sin.”