19. For after I turned away, I repented;after I came to myself, I struck my thigh;I was ashamed, even humiliated,because I bore the disgrace of my youth.
20. Is Ephraim not my favored son,the child in whom I delight?Even though I threaten him,I must still remember him!My heart stirs for him,I must show him compassion!—oracle of the Lord.
21. Set up road markers,put up signposts;Turn your attention to the highway,the road you walked.Turn back, virgin Israel,turn back to these your cities.
22. How long will you continue to hesitate,rebellious daughter?The Lord has created a new thing upon the earth:woman encompasses man.
23. Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: When I restore their fortunes in the land of Judah and in its cities, they shall again use this greeting: “May the Lord bless you, Tent of Justice, Holy Mountain!”