Translations
Modern
O Ephraim, what have I to do anymore with idols? It is I who answer and watch over him. I am like a flourishing cypress; your fruit comes from Me.
Traditional
Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him, and observed him: I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found.
Literal
O Ephraim, what is unto me anymore with idols? I have answered and have watched over him. I am luxuriant like a cypress; your fruit is found in Me.
Latin
Ephraim, quid mihi ultra idola? Ego exaudiam, et dirigam eum ego ut abietem virentem; ex me fructus tuus inventus est.
Original
Hebrew
English
O Ephraim, what have I to do anymore with idols? It is I who answer and watch over him. I am like a flourishing cypress; your fruit comes from Me.
Notes
Hosea urges Israel one last time to avoid idols. Their life comes only from the Lord, who is like an evergreen tree that always produces fruit.
Destruction was not God's final message to his covenant people. Although judgment must happen, God's healing and restoring grace is stronger than human sin.
Theme notes and profiles
Events
People
Ephraim: Second son of Joseph, and a tribe of Israel
Glossary
Topics
Blessing: Spiritual, from God Idolatry: Warnings Against, and Punishments of Prophecies Concerning Israel: Prophecies Concerning of Restoration Repentance: Exemplified