3. Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk,who took them in my arms;but they did not know that I cared for them.
4. I drew them with human cords,with bands of love;I fostered them like thosewho raise an infant to their cheeks;I bent down to feed them.
5. He shall return to the land of Egypt,Assyria shall be his king,because they have refused to repent.
6. The sword shall rage in his cities:it shall destroy his diviners,and devour them because of their schemings.
7. My people have their mind set on apostasy;though they call on God in unison,he shall not raise them up.
8. How could I give you up, Ephraim,or deliver you up, Israel?How could I treat you as Admah,or make you like Zeboiim? My heart is overwhelmed,my pity is stirred.