6 The calf itself will be taken to Assyria as an offering to the great king. Ephraim will experience shame; Israel will be ashamed of its counsel.
7 Samaria’s king will disappear like foam on the surface of the water.
8 The high places of Aven, the sin of Israel, will be destroyed;thorns and thistles will grow over their altars. They will say to the mountains, “Cover us! ”and to the hills, “Fall on us! ”
9 Israel, you have sinnedsince the days of Gibeah; they have taken their stand there.Will not war against the unjustovertake them in Gibeah?
10 I will discipline them at My discretion; nations will be gathered against themto put them in bondage for their two crimes.
11 Ephraim is a well-trained calf that loves to thresh,but I will place a yoke on her fine neck. I will harness Ephraim; Judah will plow;Jacob will do the final plowing.
12 Sow righteousness for yourselves and reap faithful love;break up your unplowed ground. It is time to seek the Lord until He comes and sends righteousnesson you like the rain.