1. Israel is a fertile vinethat brings forth its fruit.As his fruit multiplied,so his altars increased;as his land prospered,so he improved his pillars.
2. Their heart is divided;now they must bear their guilt.He will break down their altarsand destroy their pillars.
3. For now they will say,“We have no king,because we do not fear the Lord;and a king, what could he do for us?”
4. They speak mere words,swearing falselyin making a covenant.Thus judgment springs up like a poisonous plantin the furrows of the field.
5. The inhabitants of Samaria fearbecause of the calf of Beth Aven.For its people mourn for it,and its priests shriek for it,because its glory has departed from it.
6. It will be carried to Assyriaas a tribute to King Jareb.Ephraim shall be put to shame,and Israel shall be ashamed of his idol.
7. As for Samaria, her king will perishlike a twig on the water.
8. The high places of Aven, the sin of Israel,will be destroyed.Thorn and thistle will growon their altars.They will say to the mountains, Cover us,and to the hills, Fall on us.