He is. merchant. Supply the Ellipsis (App-6): [He, Ephraim, is]. merchant. This is the first of two provocations. See the Structure above; and Compare Hosea 12:14.
the balances of deceit. unjust balances. Reference to Pentateuch (Leviticus 19:36).
he loveth to oppress. Money was obtained by oppression. Reference to Pentateuch (Leviticus 6:2; Leviticus 19:13). App-92.
oppress. defraud.