Ephraim.. bitterly] In spite of all this kindness Ephraim had provoked God to great anger. His blood] plural, meaning 'bloodshed.' The blood which he has shed shall not be wiped off, but remain in God's eye, a witness of his crime. For a somewhat similar idea cp. Genesis 4:10. His reproach] God will punish him for his reproach, i.e. for his scornful contempt of God: cp. 2 Kings 19:4; 2 Kings 19:22.