Hebrew-English Text
I. Summary
After vowing to destroy Israel, Yahweh has a change of heart and promises to return the people to their land.
II. Photo
God remembers Israel’s bygone days: “I fell in love with Israel when he was still a child; And I have called [him] my son ever since Egypt.” (v. 1)
III. Important Verses
1: I fell in love with Israel When he was still a child; And I have called [him] My son Ever since Egypt.
2: Thus were they called, But they went their own way; They sacrifice to Baalim And offer to carved images.
5-6: No! They return to the land of Egypt, And Assyria is their king. Because they refuse to repent, A sword shall descend upon their towns And consume their limbs And devour [them] because of their designs.
8-9: How can I give you up, O Ephraim? How surrender you, O Israel? How can I make you like Admah, Render you like Zeboiim? I have had a change of heart, All My tenderness is stirred. I will not act on My wrath, Will not turn to destroy Ephraim. For I am God, not man, The Holy One in your midst: I will not come in fury.
10-11: The LORD will roar like a lion, And they shall march behind Him; When He roars, His children shall come Fluttering out of the west. They shall flutter from Egypt like sparrows, From the land of Assyria like doves; And I will settle them in their homes — declares the LORD.
IV. Outline
1. God’s past relationship with Israel
2-5. Israel’s idol worship and allegiance to Egypt and Assyria
6-7. Israels forthcoming punishment
8-11. God changes his mind and will not destroy Israel
V. Comment
No comment today. Stay tuned.
VI. Works Used
(see “Commentaries” page)
Collins, John J. “Introduction to the Hebrew Bible,” (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2004).
Photo taken from http://www.tssphoto.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/baby-hand-on-father_800px.jpg
