11 "Ephraim is like a dove, easily deceived and senseless- now calling to Egypt, now turning to Assyria.
11 Ephraim also is like a silly dove without heart: they call to Egypt, they go to Assyria.
11 Ephraim is like a dove, silly and without sense, calling to Egypt, going to Assyria.
11 "Ephraim is bird-brained, mindless, clueless, First chirping after Egypt, then fluttering after Assyria.
11 "Ephraim also is like a silly dove, without sense-- They call to Egypt, They go to Assyria.
11 "The people of Israel have become like silly, witless doves, first calling to Egypt, then flying to Assyria for help.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Hosea 7:11
Commentary on Hosea 7:8-16
(Read Hosea 7:8-16)
Israel was as a cake not turned, half burnt and half dough, none of it fit for use; a mixture of idolatry and of the worship of Jehovah. There were tokens of approaching ruin, as grey hairs are of old age, but they noticed them not. The pride which leads to break the law of God leads to self-flattery. The mercy and grace of God are the only refuge to which obstinate sinners never think of fleeing. Though they may howl forth their terrors in the form of prayers, they seldom cry to God with their hearts. Even their prayers for earthly mercies only seek fuel for their lusts. Their turning from one sect, sentiment, form, or vice, to another, still leaves them far short of Christ and holiness. Such are we by nature. And such shall we prove if left to ourselves. Create in us a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within us.