Hosea 12:1-8 - God's Case Against Jacob's Heirs

¹ Ephraim feeds on the [emptiness of the] wind
And [continually] pursues the [parching] east wind [which brings destruction];
Every day he multiplies lies and violence.
Further, he makes a covenant with Assyria
And (olive) oil is carried to Egypt [to seek alliances].

²
The Lord also has a dispute [a legal complaint and an indictment] with Judah,
And He will punish Jacob in accordance with his ways;
He will repay him in accordance with his deeds.
³
In their mother’s womb he took his brother by the heel,
And in his maturity he contended with God.
⁴
He wrestled with the angel and prevailed;
He wept [in repentance] and sought His favor.
He met Him at Bethel
And there God spoke with [him and through him with] us—
⁵
Even the Lord, the God of hosts,
The name of Him [who spoke with Jacob] is the Lord.
⁶
Therefore, return [in repentance] to your God,
Observe and highly regard kindness and justice,
And wait [expectantly] for your God continually.

⁷
A merchant, in whose hand are false and fraudulent balances;
He loves to oppress and exploit.
⁸
Ephraim said, “I have indeed become rich [and powerful as a nation];
I have found wealth for myself.
In all my labors they will not find in me
Any wickedness that would be sin.”