Hosea 11:1–9

1  When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. 2  As they called them, so they went from them: they sacrificed unto the Baals, and burned incense to graven images. 3  And I it was that taught Ephraim to walk, —He took them upon his arms, —but they knew not that I healed them. 4  I drew them with bands of a man, with cords of love; and I was to them as they that take off the yoke on their jaws, and I gently caused them to eat. 5  He shall not return into the land of Egypt, but the Assyrian shall be his king; for they refused to return to me; 6  and the sword shall turn about in his cities, and shall consume his bars, and devour them, because of their own counsels. 7  Yea, my people are bent upon backsliding from me: though they call them to the Most High, none at all exalteth him.

8  How shall I give thee over, Ephraim? how shall I deliver thee up, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah? how shall I set thee as Zeboim? My heart is turned within me, my repentings are kindled together. 9  I will not execute the fierceness of mine anger, I will not again destroy Ephraim; for I am •God, and not man, —the Holy One in the midst of thee: and I will not come in anger.