Israel is an emptyvine, he bringethforthfruituntohimself: according to the multitude of his fruit he hathincreased the altars; according to the goodness of his landtheyhavemadegoodlyimages.
The inhabitants of Samariashallfearbecause of the calves of Bethaven: for the peoplethereofshallmournover it, and the prieststhereofthatrejoiced on it, for the glorythereof, because it is departedfrom it.
The highplacesalso of Aven, the sin of Israel, shall be destroyed: the thorn and the thistleshallcome up on theiraltars; and theyshall say to the mountains, Cover us; and to the hills, Fall on us.
And Ephraim is as an heiferthat is taught, and loveth to tread out the corn; but I passedoverupon her fairneck: I willmakeEphraim to ride; Judahshallplow, and Jacobshallbreak his clods.
Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up yourfallowground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rainrighteousnessupon you.
Thereforeshall a tumultariseamong thy people, and all thy fortressesshall be spoiled, as ShalmanspoiledBetharbel in the day of battle: the mother was dashed in piecesupon her children.