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"Ephraim also is like a silly dove"

Text: Hosea 7:11

ISRAEL’S FOOLISH EFFORTS TO FIND ALLIES

Ephraim was mentioned time and again because it played a leading role. Samaria, the capital was in Ephraim. It was often used to describe the nation of Israel.

“Ephraim also is like a silly dove, without sense-
They call to Egypt,
They go to Assyria.”
Hosea 7:11

1. “Ephraim also is like a silly dove, without sense”

a) The imagery of a dove was applied to Ephraim (Israel).

b) A dove is often associated with two different sets of characteristics:

i) It is gentle.

ii) It is foolish.

c) The latter characterized the behavior of Ephraim.

d) When a dove is threatened it becomes fearful and it flies in different directions; not always the correct ones.

2. “They call to Egypt”

a) Egypt in the days of Moses was the most powerful nation.

b) Over the years, Egypt was a waning power.

c) It certainly was still stronger than Israel.

d) Israel thought that it could rely on Egypt for help against hostile neighbouring countries.

i) Israel paid huge tributes to secure help.

ii) The nation became even weaker by turning to Egypt.

3. “They go to Assyria”

a) This was an obviously foolish plan.

b) The Assyrians appeared attractive.

i) They were an emerging power.

ii) They had conquered many lands.

iii) Their help could be secured for a price.

c) Little did Israel know that Assyria had plans to conquer them and not help them.

i) Assyria was arrogant and drunk with power.

ii) They were cruel and merciless.

iii) In time to come, they would actually be the nation that would destroy Israel in 722 BC.