Old and new wine take away the understanding of my people.

When they were fed, they became satisfied; when they were satisfied, they became proud; as a result, they forgot me!

However, in the future I will allure her; I will lead her back into the wilderness, and speak tenderly to her.

Ephraim has been like a dove, easily deceived and lacking discernment. They called to Egypt for help; they turned to Assyria for protection.

Their heart is slipping; soon they will be punished for their guilt. The Lord will break their altars; he will completely destroy their fertility pillars.

I will attack them like a bear robbed of her cubs – I will rip open their chests. I will devour them there like a lion – like a wild animal would tear them apart.

They approach him, all the while plotting against him. Their hearts are like an oven; their anger smolders all night long, but in the morning it bursts into a flaming fire.

They do not pray to me, but howl in distress on their beds; They slash themselves for grain and new wine, but turn away from me.

How can I give you up, O Ephraim? How can I surrender you, O Israel? How can I treat you like Admah? How can I make you like Zeboiim? I have had a change of heart! All my tender compassions are aroused!