Hosea 5:14
For I am like a lion to Ephraim
What it says
The LORD will be like a lion to Ephraim and Judah, tearing them and carrying them off with no rescuer.
What it is doing
This verse intensifies the imagery from decay to violent, irresistible judgment.
In context
1“Hear this, O priests! 2The rebels are deep in slaughter; 3I know all about Ephraim, 4Their deeds do not permit them 5Israel’s arrogance testifies against them; 6They go with their flocks and herds 7They have been unfaithful to the LORD; 8Blow the ram’s horn in Gibeah, 9Ephraim will be laid waste 10The princes of Judah 11Ephraim is oppressed, crushed in judgment, 12So I am like a moth to Ephraim, 13When Ephraim saw his sickness 14For I am like a lion to Ephraim 15Then I will return to My place