8. Israel is swallowed up;now they are among the nations,like a useless vessel.
9. For they went up to Assyria—a wild ass off on its own—Ephraim bargained for lovers.
10. Even though they bargain with the nations,I will now gather them together;They will soon succumbunder the burden of king and princes.
11. When Ephraim made many altars to expiate sin,they became altars for sinning.
12. Though I write for him my many instructions,they are considered like a stranger’s.
13. They love sacrifice,they sacrifice meat and eat it,but the Lord is not pleased with them.Now he will remember their guiltand punish their sins;they shall return to Egypt.
14. Israel has forgotten his makerand has built palaces.Judah, too, has fortified many cities,but I will send fire upon his cities,to devour their strongholds.