Warning to Judah: Do Not Join in Israel’s Apostasy!

4:15 Although you, O Israel, commit adultery,

do not let Judah become guilty!

Do not journey to Gilgal!

Do not go up to Beth Aven!22

Do not swear, “As surely as the Lord lives!”

4:16 Israel has rebelled23 like a stubborn heifer!

Soon24 the Lord will put them out to pasture

like a lamb in a broad field!25

4:17 Ephraim has attached himself to idols;

Do not go near him!