15 "Israel, you are not faithful to me. But I do not want Judah to become guilty too. "My people, do not go to Gilgal to offer sacrifices. Do not go up to Bethel to worship other gods. Do not take an oath and say, 'You can be sure that the Lord is alive.'
16 The people of Israel are stubborn. They are as stubborn as a young cow. So how can I take care of them like lambs in a meadow?
17 The people of Ephraim have joined themselves to other gods. And nothing can be done to help them.
18 They continue to be unfaithful to me even when their drinks are gone. And their rulers love to do shameful things.