5 I knew (recognized, understood, and had regard for) you in the wilderness, in the land of great drought.
6 According to their pasture, so were they filled [when they fed, they grew full], and their heart was lifted up; therefore have they forgotten Me.
7 Therefore I have become to them like a lion; like a leopard I will lurk by the way [to Assyria] and watch them.
8 I will meet them like a bear that is robbed of her cubs, and I will rend the covering of their heart, and there will I devour them like a lioness, as a wild beast would tear them.
9 It is your destruction, O Israel, that you have been against Me, for in Me is your help.
10 Where now is your king that he may save you in all your cities? And your judges of whom you said, Give me a king and princes?
11 I have given you a king in My anger, and I have taken him away in My wrath.