Yahweh is talking about Judah and Israel.

## For I will be like a lion to Ephraim ##

Yahweh is going to pursue and attack Ephraim like a predator. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

## and like a young lion to the house of Judah ##

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

## I, even I, ##

Yahweh is emphasizing that he is the one that is bringing judgment on all his people (Ephraim and Judah).

## will tear ##

As a lion tears its prey apart, so Yahweh will tear his people away from their homes and country. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

## I will go and return to my place ##

Yahweh will leave his rebellious people.

## and seek my face ##

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])