New American Standard Bible

Hosea 12:1-9 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

1. Ephraim feeds on wind, And pursues the east wind continually; He multiplies lies and violence. Moreover, he makes a covenant with Assyria, And oil is carried to Egypt.

2. The Lord also has a dispute with Judah, And 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 maturity he contended with God.

4. Yes, he wrestled with the angel and prevailed; He wept and sought His favor. He found Him at Bethel And there He spoke with us,

5. Even the Lord, the God of hosts, The Lord is His name.

6. Therefore, return to your God, Observe kindness and justice, And wait for your God continually.

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

8. And Ephraim said, "Surely I have become rich, I have found wealth for myself; In all my labors they will find in me No iniquity, which would be sin."

9. But I have been the Lord your God since the land of Egypt; I will make you live in tents again, As in the days of the appointed festival.