The Lord said, *Because this people draws near with their mouth and with their lips to honor me, but they have removed their heart far from me, and their fear of me is a mitzvah of men which has been taught;
You have plowed wickedness. You have reaped iniquity. You have eaten the fruit of lies, for you trusted in your way, in the multitude of your mighty men.
Efrayim feeds on wind, and chases the east wind. He continually multiplies lies and desolation. They make a covenant with Ashur, and oil is carried into Egypt.
*Though you, Yisra'el, play the prostitute, yet don't let Yehudah offend; and don't come to Gilgal, neither go up to Beit-Aven, nor swear, 'As the LORD lives.'
They return, but not to the Elyon. They are like a faulty bow. Their princes will fall by the sword for the rage of their tongue. This will be their derision in the land of Egypt.