Book of Hosea - Chapter 7 - Verse 8

The verse "Ephraim, he hath mixed himself among the people; Ephraim is a cake not turned" is found in the book of Hosea in the Old Testament. This verse is a metaphorical description of the tribe of Ephraim, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The prophet Hosea uses the imagery of a cake not turned on a griddle to illustrate Ephraim's spiritual condition. Just as a cake that is not turned will be burnt on one side and raw on the other, Ephraim is depicted as being half-hearted and indecisive in their devotion to God. The mixing with foreign nations and adopting their customs symbolizes Ephraim's spiritual adultery and idolatry, forsaking their true identity as God's chosen people. This verse serves as a warning against syncretism and the dangers of compromising one's faith by blending it with practices that are contrary to God's will.

In this verse from the book of Hosea, the prophet describes the nation of Ephraim as being like a cake that is not fully baked. The image of a cake not turned refers to a cake that has been left unattended on a griddle, causing it to be burnt on one side and raw on the other. This metaphor is used to illustrate Ephraim's spiritual condition, suggesting that they have not been properly nurtured or disciplined. The theological interpretation of this verse suggests that Ephraim has embraced the practices and beliefs of other nations, instead of remaining faithful to God. By mixing themselves among the people, Ephraim has lost their distinctiveness and has become spiritually lukewarm. This warning serves as a reminder to believers to remain steadfast in their faith and not allow themselves to be influenced by the ways of the world.