Israel’s Penitence, Return and Welcome Home

18 Truly I heard the voice

Of Ephraim thus lamenting,

"Thou hast chastened me, and I was chastened;

Like a calf unbroken was I.

Bring me back, and let me return,

For Thou art Jehovah my God.

19 Mine exile hath led me to penitence;

Chastened, I smote on my beasts.

Put to shame and confusion am I,

For I bear the reproach of my youth."

20 Is not Ephraim my dear, dear son?

Is he not a darling child?

For let Me but utter his name,

And My mind keeps resting upon him.

So My heart for him doth yearn,

And pity him I must.

21 Set way-marks, and make thee guide-posts;

Bethink thee of the highway,;

The road by which thou didst travel.

Return, O virgin of Israel,

Return to these thy cities.

22 How long, O backsliding daughter,

Wilt thou remain irresolute?

For on earth hath Jehovah created a new thing,

A woman shall into a man be transformed.