English Standard Version

Hosea 12:1-9 English Standard Version (ESV)

1. Ephraim feeds on the windand pursues the east wind all day long;they multiply falsehood and violence; they make a covenant with Assyria,and oil is carried to Egypt.

2. The Lord has an indictment against Judahand 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 manhood he strove with God.

4. He strove with the angel and prevailed;he wept and sought his favor. He met God at Bethel,and there God spoke with us—

5. the Lord, the God of hosts, the Lord is his memorial name:

6. “So you, by the help of your God, return, hold fast to love and justice,and wait continually for your God.”

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

8. Ephraim has said, “Ah, but I am rich;I have found wealth for myself;in all my labors they cannot find in me iniquity or sin.”

9. I am the Lord your Godfrom the land of Egypt;I will again make you dwell in tents,as in the days of the appointed feast.