4 They made kings, but not by my authority;they established princes, but without my knowledge.With their silver and goldthey made idols for themselves,to their own destruction.
5 He has rejected your calf, Samaria!My wrath is kindled against them;How long will they be incapable of innocencein Israel?
6 An artisan made it,it is no god at all.The calf of Samariawill be dashed to pieces.
7 When they sow the wind,they will reap the whirlwind;The stalk of grain that forms no headcan yield no flour;Even if it could,strangers would swallow it.
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.