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Hosea 4:12-19

Read this passage and open each verse for the full verse feed and commentary tools.

12My people consult their wooden idol, and their diviner’s wand informs them;

For a spirit of infidelity has led them astray,

And they have been unfaithful, departing from their God.

13They offer sacrifices on the tops of the mountains

And burn incense on the hills,

Under oak, poplar, and terebinth,

Because their shade is pleasant.

Therefore your daughters play the prostitute,

And your brides commit adultery.

14I will not punish your daughters when they play the prostitute,

Or your brides when they commit adultery,

Because the men themselves slip away with the prostitutes

And offer sacrifices with temple prostitutes;

So the people without understanding are ruined.

15Though you, Israel, play the prostitute,

Judah must not become guilty;

Also you are not to go to Gilgal,

Nor go up to Beth-aven

And take the oath:

“As the Lord lives!”

16Since Israel is stubborn

Like a stubborn cow,

Will the Lord now pasture them

Like a lamb in a large field?

17Ephraim is allied with idols;

Leave him alone.

18Their liquor is gone,

They prostitute themselves continually;

Their rulers dearly love shame.

19The wind wraps them in its wings,

And they will be put to shame because of their sacrifices.