15. “Israel, just because you act like a prostitute doesn’t mean that Judah should feel guilty too. People, don’t go to Gilgal or Beth Aven. Don’t use the Lord’s name to make promises. Don’t say, ‘As the Lord lives …!’
16. The Lord has given many things to Israel. He is like a shepherd who takes his sheep to a large field with plenty of grass. But Israel is stubborn like a young cow that runs away again and again.
17. “Ephraim has joined his idols, so leave him alone.
18. Ephraim has joined their drunkenness. Let them continue to be prostitutes. Let them be with their lovers.
19. They went to those gods for safety, and they have lost their ability to think. Their altars will bring them shame.