Definition: Ephraim compasseth me about with lies, and the house of Israel with deceit: but Judah yet ruleth with God, and is faithful with the saints.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical passage together. It’s a really important verse focusing on the relationship between Israel and Judah and their faithfulness to God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse paints a picture of a time when Israel was struggling with dishonesty and deception, but Judah ultimately chooses to be faithful and dedicated to God. It’s a moment of turning point where they are striving for righteousness. Let's unpack each part: “Hosea 11:12 Ephraim compasseth me about with lies…” – “Ephraim” refers to Israel, and “compasseth me about” means "around" or "about me." The word “lies” suggests deception, trickery, and misleading behavior. It's like they were being misled by their own actions and words. “and the house of Israel with deceit:…” – This refers to the entire nation of Israel. It’s highlighting a pattern of dishonesty and wrongdoing within them. “…but Judah yet ruleth with God, and is faithful with the saints.” – “Judah” is referring to Judah, the people of Israel in that specific period. The key phrase here is "yet ruleth with God." This means Judah was attempting to follow God’s will but wasn't doing it well. “Is faithful with the saints” means they were loyal and devoted to God, protecting and serving those who believed in them. Putting it all together – A simpler summary: Imagine a ship sailing around a coastline. Israel was drifting aimlessly, being misled by lies and making wrong choices. But Judah, with its strong commitment to God, managed to stay true and continue on a course that leads towards righteousness. The Significance & What It Means: This verse is important because it highlights: The Importance of Faithfulness: It emphasizes the need for faithfulness – being trustworthy and obedient to God's commands. Leadership Matters: It suggests that leaders (in this case, Judah) have a crucial role in guiding their people towards righteousness. God’s Guidance: It shows that God is actively watching over his people and intervening to protect them from falling into deception. Important Note: This verse doesn't necessarily mean Israel was completely without flaws. It’s about a time of struggle and a necessary shift in their direction. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with more detail? Compare it to another Bible passage? Talk about the historical context (when did this happen, and why might it be significant)?