8. “Israel was destroyed; its people are scattered among the nations, like some dish that was thrown away because no one wanted it.
9. Ephraim went to his ‘lovers.’ Like a stubborn donkey, they led him off to Assyria.
10. Yes, Israel was taken to the nations, but I will bring them back. But first, they must suffer a little by carrying the burden of that mighty king.
11. “Ephraim built more and more altars, and that was a sin. They have been altars of sin for Ephraim.