Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote HOS front intro k6lu 0 # Introduction to Hosea<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of Hosea<br><br>1. God tells Hosea to marry Gomer as a picture of how Israel relates to Yahweh (1:1–3:5)<br>1. Israel betrays, wanders, and sins; Yahweh appeals and pleas to return to him (4:1–7:3)<br>1. The conflict between Yahweh and Israel explained in various ways (7:4–13:8)<br> * Similes: oven, cake, dove, bow (7:4–16)<br> * Israel openly lies and rebels (8:1–14)<br> * The end of Israel predicted (9:1–17)<br> * Similes: grapes, vine, calf, lion, children, birds, and doves (10:1–11:11)<br> * Israel sins, betrays, and breaks alliances (11:12–12:1)<br> * Israel’s history remembered (12:2–13:16)<br> * Idolatry (13:1–8)<br>1. Israel is hostile to Yahweh (13:9–16)<br>1. Yahweh’s last appeals to Israel (14:1–9)<br><br>### What is the Book of Hosea about?<br><br>This book contains the prophecies of Hosea, son of Beeri. Hosea lived in the northern kingdom of Israel. He often called this kingdom Ephraim or Samaria. Hosea prophesied for about 38 years and predicted that Assyria would destroy the northern kingdom of Israel.<br><br>Hosea began to prophesy around 753 B.C., just before King Jeroboam II died. At this time, the kingdom of Israel was prosperous but spiritually weak. Hosea warned how Yahweh would punish Israel unless the people turned back to Yahweh and were faithful to him.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>This book is traditionally named “The Book of Hosea” or just “Hosea.” Translators may also call it “The Book About Hosea” or “The Sayings of Hosea.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of Hosea?<br><br>Although this book tells what Hosea prophesied, it is uncertain whether Hosea wrote the book himself. It was probably written after Samaria, the capital of the norther kingdom, was destroyed in 721 B.C.<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Why did God command Hosea to marry a prostitute?<br><br>God told Hosea to marry the prostitute Gomer. This represented how the kingdom of Israel related to Yahweh. Israel was unfaithful to Yahweh and broke the covenant with him. This is compared to a woman who is unfaithful to her husband breaks her marriage agreement with him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])<br><br>### What is a lawsuit?<br><br>Many cultures have a process for resolving disputes through law courts. These legal disputes are called lawsuits. The Book of Hosea contains some legal terms. This is because Yahweh is spoken of as if he were a husband accusing his wife in court of being unfaithful to him. Part of the Book of Hosea follows the form of a lawsuit. A problem is identified (4:1), someone is accused (4:4), someone is found guilty (4:15), and the guilty ones will be punished (5:1).<br><br>### Who did the people of the kingdom of Israel worship?<br><br>Israel was supposed to worship Yahweh alone. But they worshiped both Yahweh and the Canaanite gods such as Baal. This was a major reason why Yahweh judged the kingdom of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What does the phrase “the declaration of Yahweh” mean?<br><br>The prophet used the phrase “the declaration of Yahweh” to mark a message as truly coming from God.<br><br>### Why are English translations of Hosea very different?<br><br>Hosea 4–14 has many problems of interpretation. Some phrases in Hosea are beyond how we currently understand the Hebrew language. Many English versions have translated these difficult sections very differently.<br><br>### What does the term “Israel” mean in Hosea?<br><br>In Hosea, “Israel” is used only to refer to the northern kingdom of Israel. It is not used to refer to the southern kingdom or to the two kingdoms together. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/names/kingdomofisrael]]) HOS 1 intro ud3c 0 # Hosea 1 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 1:2-11.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Hosea’s marriage<br>God does not approve of prostitution, but he told Hosea to marry a prostitute so that the message of Israel’s unfaithfulness would be shown to the people. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])<br><br>Hosea’s marriage to Gomer is a metaphor for the kingdom of Israel’s relationship to Yahweh. Israel was unfaithful to Yahweh and broke the covenant with him. Gomer was a woman who was unfaithful to her husband broke her marriage agreement with him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br><br>Hosea 1-4 is controlled by a metaphor that Hosea lived out. He was personifying the relationship between Israel and Yahweh. Hosea played the part of Yahweh, and Gomer played the part of Israel. HOS 1 1 x3qa figs-idiom 0 the word of Yahweh that came This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “the word that Yahweh God spoke” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HOS 1 1 fhy8 translate-names 0 Beeri This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 1 1 f238 translate-names 0 Uzziah … Jotham … Ahaz … Hezekiah … Jeroboam … Joash The events in this book happened during the time of these kings. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 1 1 ghv4 0 Yahweh This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this. HOS 1 2 m57n figs-metaphor 0 great prostitution Here “prostitution” represents the people being unfaithful to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 1 3 l8fb translate-names 0 Gomer … Diblaim These are names of people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 1 4 gin3 figs-metaphor 0 the house of Jehu Here “house” means “family,” including Jehu’s descendants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 1 4 ykw9 figs-metaphor 0 the house of Israel This expression refers to kingdom of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 1 5 e655 figs-metonymy 0 the bow of Israel Here “bow” refers to the power of the army. Alternate translation: “the military power of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 1 6 jgz9 translate-names 0 Lo-Ruhamah This name means “no mercy.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. Alternate translation: “No Mercy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 1 8 r52q translate-names 0 Lo-Ruhamah This name means “no mercy.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. See how you translated this in [Hosea 1:6](../01/06.md). Alternate translation: “No Mercy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 1 9 a6mv translate-names 0 Lo-Ammi This name means “not my people.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. Alternate translation: “Not My People” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 1 10 q3ve 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea. HOS 1 10 mc4b figs-simile 0 like the sand of the seashore This emphasizes the great number of Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 1 10 tps4 figs-activepassive 0 which cannot be measured or counted If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which no one can measure or count” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 1 10 u2at figs-activepassive 0 It will be that where it was said to them If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Where God said to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 1 10 zlv3 0 where it was said to them This expression probably refers to Jezreel, the city where crimes had been committed by kings of Israel, and which was a symbol of God’s punishment of them. HOS 1 10 lb2w figs-activepassive 0 it will be said to them If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will say to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 1 11 vlg4 figs-activepassive 0 will be gathered together If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will gather them together” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 1 11 t1bm 0 go up from the land This expression might refer to the land where the people of Israel were in captivity. HOS 1 11 b5bz figs-explicit 0 the day of Jezreel This refers to the time when God will put his people back in the land of Israel. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 2 intro h75z 0 # Hosea 2 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations prefer to set apart quotations. The ULT and many other English translations set the lines of this chapter, which is poetry, farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. Hosea 1-2 is a single series forming one narrative.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br>Many relationships are used in this chapter that are metaphors for the relationship between Israel and her God. Brother, sister, husband, wife, mother, and children are examples. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>This chapter creates an abrupt change of address. The prophet is now addressing the children directly in the first few verses, but the whole chapter is written against Gomer as an illustration of Israel as an adulterous people. God uses Gomer as an illustration to teach the people of Israel how they should be faithful to him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/adultery]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]]) HOS 2 1 qq88 0 Connecting Statement: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea. HOS 2 1 if49 figs-exclamations 0 My people! This exclamation may be presented as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are my people!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]]) HOS 2 1 z5an figs-activepassive 0 You have been shown compassion If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has shown you compassion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 2 1 e5gw 0 compassion Alternate translation: “kindness” or “mercy” HOS 2 2 d1d5 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea. HOS 2 2 t1g6 0 lawsuit This is a complaint by one person against another person in a court of law. HOS 2 2 d9bq figs-metaphor 0 your mother Here “mother” refers to the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 2 vb8m figs-metaphor 0 for she is not my wife Yahweh is stating that Israel, spoken of here as a woman, is no longer acting like a wife to Yahweh. Instead Israel has turned away from following and worshiping him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 2 e3qh figs-metaphor 0 neither am I her husband Yahweh can no longer be in relationship with the nation of Israel as a husband would be to his wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 2 l76m figs-metaphor 0 her acts of adultery A wife who is adulterous leaves her husband to sleep with another man. This is how Israel was acting toward Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 2 qp68 figs-metaphor 0 from between her breasts This imagery suggests that Israel is relying on the idols and not Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 3 x3z9 figs-metaphor 0 I will strip her naked and show her nakedness as on the day that she was born Yahweh will no longer protect and provide for Israel because the nation has turned away from him. In Israel, husbands were obliged by law to provide clothes for their wives. Not to do so was a sign that a man was rejecting his wife. The full meaning of this may be made clear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 2 3 w84f figs-simile 0 I will make her like the wilderness Yahweh will change Israel to resemble the wilderness, which is a region that is bare and unproductive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 2 3 tk9l figs-metaphor 0 I will make her die from thirst Here “thirst” refers to the need to worship and rely on Yahweh, not idols, or Israel will not be able to survive as a nation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 4 dt2c 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea. HOS 2 4 ck3e figs-metaphor 0 for they are children of prostitution The Israelites are acting like they do not belong to Yahweh. Just as their parents did not worship God, Neither do they. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 5 bbd9 figs-metaphor 0 For their mother has been a prostitute The previous generation who sought out other gods were considered prostitutes for they were unfaithful to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 5 pdr2 figs-metonymy 0 I will go after my lovers, for they give me my bread and water, my wool and flax, my oil and drink Here “my lovers” refers to Baal and other false gods, whom Israel has chosen to worship instead of Yahweh. The list of things are essential items that allow the people to live. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 2 6 e3xg 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking to Hosea. HOS 2 6 n4ve figs-metaphor 0 Therefore I will build up a hedge to block her way with thorns. I will build up a wall against her so she cannot find her way This passage indicates that Yahweh will prevent his people from finding success and prosperity, becuase they continue to worship idols. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 2 7 pk67 figs-metaphor 0 Then she will say, “I will return to my first husband, for it was better for me then than it is now.” Israel will return to Yahweh not because of their love for him, but because they are disappointed by their worship of Baal. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 8 i559 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea. HOS 2 9 v55u figs-metonymy 0 I will take back my wool and flax that were used to cover her nakedness This probably means that Israel’s harvests and flocks will fail. Yahweh will remove his blessings from Israel, and the people will be left alone and in danger of attack. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 2 9 rl9d figs-activepassive 0 were used to cover her nakedness If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that the people used to clothe themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 2 10 fpp3 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea. HOS 2 10 jfc9 figs-metaphor 0 Then I will strip her naked in the sight of her lovers This means God will humiliate the people of Israel in front of the other nations nearby. See how you translated this in [Hosea 2:3](../02/03.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 10 j4bh figs-metonymy 0 no one will rescue her out of my hand No one will try to help Israel. Here “hand” refers to God’s power to punish. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 2 12 ege9 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do to Israel. HOS 2 12 bqk9 figs-metaphor 0 These are the wages that my lovers gave me This refers to payment that Israel received from the false gods or Baals. This direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “that these were the wages that her lovers had given to her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) HOS 2 12 f2fc figs-metaphor 0 make them a forest Yahweh will destroy the vineyards and fruit trees by allowing other trees and weeds to grow among them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 13 i7k2 figs-123person 0 this is Yahweh’s declaration Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) HOS 2 14 a2gy 0 Connecting Statement: Yahweh is speaking about Israel. HOS 2 14 uxh6 0 So I am going to win her back Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, will bring her back to me” HOS 2 15 cf8d 0 the Valley of Achor as a door of hope As Yahweh lead Israel out of Egypt, he will lead Israel to the Valley of Achor so that Israel will hope again in Yahweh. HOS 2 15 sql9 figs-metaphor 0 She will answer me there as she did in the days of her youth, as in the days that she came out of the land of Egypt Yahweh hopes that the nation of Israel will repent and again choose to worship him as their God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 15 hhr5 0 She will answer Some modern versions understand the Hebrew word to mean “She will sing.” HOS 2 16 m6gg figs-metaphor 0 My husband This means the people of Israel will love and be faithful to Yahweh just as a wife is to a husband. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 16 sid2 figs-metaphor 0 My Baal “Baal” means “master” and also refers to the false god that the Canaanites worship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 17 f9gg figs-synecdoche 0 For I will remove the names of the Baals from her mouth The Israelites will not speak the names of Baal and the idols again. The people are represented by their mouths. Alternate translation: “For I will cause you to not speak the names of the Baals” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HOS 2 18 ma1m 0 Connecting Statement: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do to Israel. HOS 2 18 puj7 0 On that day This phrase is used to talk about a future restoration between Israel and Yahweh. HOS 2 18 j2tx 0 I will make a covenant for them Yahweh’s new covenant will include peace for the animals. HOS 2 18 c1um figs-metonymy 0 I will drive away the bow, the sword, and the battle from the land, and I will make you lie down in safety Yahweh will keep Israel’s enemies away from them, there will be no more war, the people will be safe. Here “the bow, the sword, and the battle” represent war. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 2 18 u7mv figs-metonymy 0 lie down in safety This expression refers to living in safety. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 2 19 t7wt 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do for Israel. HOS 2 19 h2m4 figs-metaphor 0 I will promise to be your husband forever Yahweh will be like the husband, and Israel will be like Yahweh’s wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 19 t45v figs-abstractnouns 0 in righteousness, justice, covenant faithfulness, and mercy This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns. Alternate translation: “and do what is right, just, faithful, and merciful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HOS 2 20 tas9 0 you will know Yahweh Here “know” means to acknowledge Yahweh as their God and to be faithful to him. HOS 2 21 bb87 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do for Israel. HOS 2 22 w8qh figs-personification 0 The earth will answer the grain, the new wine and the oil, and they will answer Jezreel The land will meet the need for grain, new wine, and olive oil. These things will also meet the needs of Jezreel. The land and these products are spoken of as if they were people who could meet the needs of others. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HOS 2 22 zi92 figs-metaphor 0 Jezreel Here the name of this valley stands for all the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 23 u9ni 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do for Israel. HOS 2 23 jl7b figs-metaphor 0 I will plant her for myself in the land When God makes his people safe and prosperous in their land again, they are spoken of if they were agricultural crops. Alternate translation: “I will take care of the Israelite people as a farmer plants his crops and takes care of them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 2 23 z8da translate-names 0 Lo-Ruhamah This name means “no mercy.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. See how you translated this in [Hosea 1:6](../01/06.md). Alternate translation: “No Mercy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 2 23 l22q translate-names 0 Lo-Ammi This name means “not my people.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. See how you translated this in [Hosea 1:9](../01/09.md). Alternate translation: “Not My People” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 2 23 j39c translate-names 0 Ammi Attah This name means “you are my people.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. Alternate translation: “You Are My People” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 3 intro k2ts 0 # Hosea 3 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter focuses on the meaning of the illustration of Hosea’s marriage. It is a very short chapter written in prose to show the truth of Israel’s relationship with Yahweh. After bearing a number of children for Hosea, Gomer leaves him and prostitutes herself with other men, showing little to no regard for their marriage covenant. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br><br>This chapter contains a continuation of the metaphor played out in chapter 2. Hosea is told to go and buy his wife out of slavery. Gomer must have been captured and held as a slave due to her adulterous activity. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/adultery]]) HOS 3 1 t4kg 0 Go again, love a woman, loved by her husband, but who is an adulteress This refers back to [Hosea 1:2](../01/02.md). Yahweh again tells Hosea to love an adulterous woman. HOS 3 1 sa34 translate-symaction 0 Love her just as I, Yahweh, love the people of Israel By loving the adulterous woman, Hosea will be an example of Yahweh’s love for Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]]) HOS 3 1 rvb9 0 they turn to other gods and love raisin cakes People ate raisin or fig cakes during festivals where they worshiped false gods. HOS 3 2 ik7l 0 fifteen pieces of silver and a homer and a lethek of barley This was the price to buy a slave. HOS 3 2 x615 translate-numbers 0 fifteen pieces “15 pieces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]]) HOS 3 2 e35q translate-bvolume 0 a homer and a lethek of barley This can be stated in modern units. Alternate translation: “330 liters of barley” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]]) HOS 3 4 s5dq 0 For the people of Israel will live for many days without a king, prince, sacrifice, stone pillar, ephod or household idols Just as Hosea lived without his wife because she committed adultery, Israel will live without a king and without worshiping God, because they committed idolatry. HOS 3 5 klf5 0 seek Yahweh their God Here “seek” means they are asking God to accept them and their worship. HOS 3 5 ce6i figs-metonymy 0 David their king Here “David” represents all the descendants of David. Alternate translation: “a descendant of David to be their king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 3 5 plr4 0 in the last days Alternate translation: “in the future” HOS 3 5 h6db figs-metonymy 0 they will come trembling before Yahweh and his goodness Here “trembling” represents feelings of awe and humility. Alternate translation: “they will come back to Yahweh and will humble themselves, honor him, and ask for his blessings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 4 intro m65b 0 # Hosea 4 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>The author stops using the metaphor of a husband/wife relationship and begins using a new illustration using lawsuits. God is suing the people of Israel because of all the wrong they have done. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Lawsuits<br><br>Lawsuits are special cases where people go to court when they have a legal issue to resolve between them. Normally, one party is accusing another party of having done wrong.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metonymy<br><br>Metonymy is used in the first few verses of this chapter. Metonymy is a figure of speech in which a thing or idea is called not by its own name, but by the name of something closely associated with it. Bloodshed is associated with murder. Stumbling represents sinning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]]) HOS 4 1 k5fr 0 General Information: This chapter begins Yahweh’s argument against the unfaithful Israelites. HOS 4 1 t2hu figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh has a lawsuit against the inhabitants of the land Yahweh stating that the people of Israel have sinned against him and broken his covenant is spoken of as if Yahweh were accusing them in court. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 4 1 ste3 0 lawsuit This is a complaint by one person against another person in a court of law. See how you translated this in [Hosea 2:2](../02/02.md). HOS 4 2 a1s6 figs-metaphor 0 The people have broken all bounds Here “bounds” stands for the limits of what the law allows. Alternate translation: “The people have disobeyed the law in every possible way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 4 2 i3nt figs-abstractnouns 0 bloodshed comes after bloodshed Here “bloodshed” stands for “murder” which often involves making the victim bleed. Alternate translation: “you commit one murder after another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 4 3 y9lx 0 So the land is drying up This expression refers to drought, when no rain falls for a long time. HOS 4 3 mp1u 0 wasting away becoming weak and dying because of sickness or lack of food HOS 4 3 m1s9 figs-activepassive 0 are being taken away If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “are dying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 4 4 xl63 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking about Israel. HOS 4 4 gz4e 0 lawsuit a complaint by one person against another person in a court of law HOS 4 4 t69t 0 do not let anyone accuse anyone else No one should accuse another person of anything because everyone is guilty of something. HOS 4 5 j4la figs-metaphor 0 You priests will stumble Here “stumble” means to disobey God or even to stop trusting him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 4 5 a2zy figs-metaphor 0 I will destroy your mother Here “mother” refers to the nation of Israel. See how you translated this in [Hosea 2:2](../02/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 4 6 qhc8 0 General Information: In 4:6, Yahweh is talking to the priests about the people of Israel. But in 4:7, he is talking about the priests, not to them. It is possible for the translator to follow the example of the UST, which portrays Yahweh as talking to the priests also in 4:7. HOS 4 6 pq57 figs-activepassive 0 My people are being destroyed because of the lack of knowledge If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “My people are perishing because you, the priests, have not properly taught them about me so that they will obey me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 4 6 j1k4 figs-explicit 0 knowledge Here “knowledge” refers to the knowledge of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 4 7 g6wy figs-metonymy 0 They exchanged their honor for shame This could mean: (1) “honor” is a metonym that represents Yahweh, and “shame” is a metonym that represents idols. Alternate translation: “They have stopped worshiping me, their honorable God, and now worship shameful idols” or (2) some Bible versions translate this as “I will exchange their honor for shame.” This means Yahweh will take away the things which the priests honor and cause the priests to be ashamed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 4 8 ajz2 figs-explicit 0 They feed on the sin of my people When people sinned, they would offer sacrifices so God would forgive them. The priests were allowed to eat these sacrifices. The priests eating these sacrifices for sin is spoken of as if they would actually feed on the people’s sins. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 4 8 e3kk figs-explicit 0 they are greedy for more of their wickedness The priests want the people to sin more so that the people will offer more sacrifices that the priests may eat. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 4 9 lv38 0 It will be the same for the people as for the priests Alternate translation: “The people and the priests will be punished in the same way” HOS 4 9 xfi6 0 their practices Alternate translation: “their habits” or “their conduct” HOS 4 10 y17j 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Israel. HOS 4 10 p57j 0 but not increase Alternate translation: “but not have children” HOS 4 10 az6x 0 they have gone far away The people have stopped worshiping and following God. HOS 4 10 j8tw figs-123person 0 from Yahweh Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. This can be stated in the first person. Alternate translation: “from me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) HOS 4 11 da24 0 Connecting Statement: Yahweh is talking about Israel. HOS 4 11 ql5t figs-personification 0 sexual promiscuity, wine, and new wine, which have taken away their understanding The people of Israel are pursuing sex outside of marriage and drinking too much wine. In doing these activities they have forgotten Yahweh’s commands. These actions are spoken of here as if they were someone who could prevent other people from understanding the importance of obeying Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HOS 4 12 b2e9 figs-personification 0 their walking sticks give them prophecies Idol worshipers used walking sticks to help them predict the future. The walking sticks are spoken of here as if they were people who spoke prophecies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HOS 4 12 gu5r figs-personification 0 a mind of promiscuity has misled them Worshiping the idols and sleeping with the temple prostitutes has developed in the people of Israel the desire to always sin against Yahweh in these ways. Here “mind” is spoken of as if it were a separate person who was able to convince the people to disobey Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HOS 4 12 mu4t figs-metaphor 0 has misled has convinced the people to sin (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 4 13 f8ym 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Israel. HOS 4 13 u9e7 0 on the tops of the mountains … on the hills It was common for the people to set up idols in these places, often called “high places” in the Old Testament. HOS 4 14 q3pu 0 sacred prostitutes These were women who had sexual relations with men who came to worship certain idols. This was viewed as a sacred action in honor of the false gods. HOS 4 14 asb1 figs-metaphor 0 So this people who does not understand will be thrown down Yahweh will destroy the nation of Israel because they do not understand or obey God’s commandments. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 4 15 n41g 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Judah and Israel. HOS 4 15 sei7 0 may Judah not become guilty God knows how sinful Israel has become and does not want Judah to do the same thing. HOS 4 15 g1ti 0 Do not go to Gilgal, you people; do not go up to Beth Aven The people of Judah are being warned not to go to the cities of Gilgal or Beth Aven to worship idols in those places. Gilgal was once a place where Yahweh had been worshiped, but it had become a place of idol worship. HOS 4 15 wj2f translate-names 0 Beth Aven This was a city on the border between the northern kingdom of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin in the southern kingdom. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 4 16 vaf7 figs-simile 0 like a stubborn heifer Israel is compared to a young cow that will not obey its master. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 4 16 b1k8 figs-metaphor 0 How can Yahweh bring them to pasture like lambs in a meadow? Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that he cannot continue to take care of the people because they are stubborn. Yahweh no longer taking care of his people is spoken of as if he were a shepherd that could not take his lambs into the field to eat because they are stubborn. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will not shepherd a rebellious people.” or “Therefore Yahweh will not continue to take care of them.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 4 16 un2p figs-123person 0 How can Yahweh Here Yahweh is speaking of himself in the third person. It can be stated in the first person. Alternate translation: “How can I” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) HOS 4 17 y9hs 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Israel. HOS 4 17 vcx4 figs-synecdoche 0 Ephraim united himself with idols; leave him alone Here “Ephraim” represents the whole northern kingdom of Israel, which is a metonym for the people who live there. They chose to worship idols, instead of Yahweh. Yahweh is commanding Hosea to not try to correct them. The people of Israel will not listen. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 4 18 t2qi 0 her rulers dearly love their shame The rulers are not ashamed of what they are doing when they worship idols and turn against Yahweh. HOS 4 19 kwi7 figs-metaphor 0 The wind will wrap her up in its wings Here “wind” represents God’s judgment and anger against the nation of Israel. Yahweh will allow the enemy army to defeat the people of Israel and take them as captives. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 5 intro cz2x 0 # Hosea 5 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter continues using the poetic form exclusively.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>The author uses Ephraim and Israel interchangeably. They both refer to the northern kingdom of Israel. Judah is also mentioned and refers to the southern kingdom of Judah. Benjamin is part of the southern kingdom of Judah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>This chapter is full of metaphors and similes. The writer uses these figures of speech to show how Yahweh will treat his people for not obeying his instructions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]]) HOS 5 1 qy78 0 Connecting Statement: Yahweh is talking about Israel. HOS 5 1 i4kf translate-names 0 You have been a snare at Mizpah and a net spread over Tabor A snare and a net are both objects used to catch prey. In this case, the priests and the royal household had devised ways to keep the people away from Yahweh, while enticing them into idolatry. Mizpah and Tabor were places for idol worship in the land of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 5 2 e4c5 figs-metaphor 0 The rebels stand deep in slaughter Here “rebels” refers to all of those people who had turned away from Yahweh, and “deep in slaughter” could refer to the murder of innocent people, or to the slaughter of animals offered to pagan idols. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 5 2 z7ql 0 The rebels The translator can represent this as “You rebels,” because God is really talking to the rebellious people of Israel. HOS 5 2 u6yj 0 in slaughter Some modern versions interpret the Hebrew expression as standing for wickedness. HOS 5 2 ncj1 0 I will punish all of them The translator can represent this as “I will punish all of you.” HOS 5 3 ki2p 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Israel. HOS 5 3 b88u figs-synecdoche 0 I know Ephraim, and Israel is not hidden from me Here, “Ephraim” and “Israel” both refer to the whole northern kingdom of Israel, and represent the people who live there. Here God says that he knows what they are like and what they are doing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 5 3 vw9u figs-simile 0 Ephraim, now you have become like a prostitute Ephraim is presented in terms of a prostitute because the people have become unfaithful to God, as a prostitute is faithful to no man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 5 4 xz8q 0 for the mind of adultery is in them This means they have the desire to be unfaithful to God. They want to worship idols. HOS 5 4 hh5e 0 to turn to God … they do not know Yahweh The translator can represent this as “to turn to me … they do not know me,” or “to turn to me … they do not know me, Yahweh.” HOS 5 4 kub1 0 they do not know Yahweh Israel no longer obeys Yahweh in any way. They do not acknowledge Yahweh as their God. HOS 5 5 iu6y 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Israel. HOS 5 5 rch3 figs-personification 0 The pride of Israel testifies against him This describes “pride” as a person who testifies against the people of Israel in court. Their prideful attitude and behavior show that they are guilty of no longer obeying Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HOS 5 5 px3d figs-idiom 0 so Israel and Ephraim will stumble in their guilt; and Judah also will stumble with them The two kingdoms will become completely disobedient to God because of their pride and sin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HOS 5 7 im5k 0 They were unfaithful to Yahweh, for they have borne illegitimate children This could mean: (1) this means the Israelites were marrying people from other nations and having children with them or (2) this means the Israelite parents were unfaithful to Yahweh and they were teaching their children to worship idols. HOS 5 7 yu59 figs-personification 0 Now the new moon festivals will devour them with their fields The people of Israel were supposed to celebrate during the new moon. Here this expression seems to describe the new moon festival as a beast that will eat the people and their fields. However, it is hard to interpret this expression; many versions translate it without making much sense of it. However, the overall meaning is certainly that God will punish the people for their unfaithfulness to him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HOS 5 8 uh2c 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Israel. HOS 5 8 tj5p figs-doublet 0 Blow the horn in Gibeah, and the trumpet in Ramah Here “horn” and “trumpet” mean the same thing. This command is given to the people of Gibeah and Ramah to emphasize that the enemy is coming. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HOS 5 8 s184 figs-synecdoche 0 Sound a battle cry at Beth Aven: ‘We will follow you, Benjamin!’ Here “Benjamin” represents the soldiers from the tribe of Benjamin. This may be a request for them to lead the people into battle. But modern versions make various attempts to interpret this expression. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HOS 5 8 ail1 translate-names 0 Beth Aven This was a city on the border between the northern kingdom of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin in the southern kingdom. See how you translated this in [Hosea 4:15](../04/15.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 5 9 n3pe 0 Among the tribes of Israel I have declared what is certain to happen Alternate translation: “I will do to the tribes of Israel what I have declared” HOS 5 10 x6j7 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Judah and Israel. HOS 5 10 jdz8 figs-simile 0 The leaders of Judah are like those who move a boundary stone To “move a boundary stone” refers to moving the landmark that marked the border of some property, which was a crime under Israelite law. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 5 10 wbd7 figs-metaphor 0 I will pour my wrath on them like water Yahweh’s wrath against Judah will be like a large stream of water that destroys them. In the scriptures, emotions and moral qualities are often spoken of as if they were liquids. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 5 11 x64t figs-parallelism 0 Ephraim is crushed; he is crushed in judgment If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This statement is made twice for emphasis. Here “Ephraim” refers to the people of the northern kingdom of Israel. Alternate translation: “I will punish the people of Israel severely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 5 11 f3tb figs-metaphor 0 walked after idols Here “walked” represents the idea of worshiping. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 5 11 ww39 0 idols The Hebrew word translated here as “idols” is uncertain in its meaning, and is translated by modern versions in many different ways. HOS 5 12 jy1j 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Judah and Israel. HOS 5 12 z5lp figs-simile 0 I will be like a moth to Ephraim, and like rot to the house of Judah A moth on a piece of wool and rot in a piece of wood are both destructive. Yahweh will destroy both nations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 5 12 y9bw 0 moth … rot These two terms are translated in various ways because the meaning of the Hebrew word is either very broad or it is uncertain. HOS 5 13 pf8f figs-metaphor 0 When Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah saw his wound Both Ephraim (the northern kingdom of Israel) and Judah (the southern kingdom of Israel) realized that they were in danger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 5 13 e5lq 0 then Ephraim went to Assyria, and Judah sent messengers to the great king Ephraim and Judah asked Assyria for help instead of asking Yahweh for help. “Great king” was a title for the king of Assyria. HOS 5 13 be1d 0 But he was not able Here “he” refers to the king of Assyria. HOS 5 14 mxf1 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Judah and Israel. HOS 5 14 su9f figs-simile 0 So I will be like a lion to Ephraim Yahweh is going to pursue and attack Ephraim like a lion. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 5 14 bpl6 figs-simile 0 like a young lion to the house of Judah Yahweh is going to treat Judah in a similar way. Yahweh is showing his displeasure with both the northern and the southern kingdoms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 5 14 rse7 0 I, even I Yahweh is emphasizing that he is the one that is bringing judgment on all of his people. HOS 5 14 y54f figs-metaphor 0 will tear As a lion tears apart the animal it is eating, so Yahweh will tear his people away from their homes and country. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 5 15 gc86 0 I will go and return to my place Yahweh will leave his rebellious people. HOS 5 15 w7fg figs-metaphor 0 seek my face Try to come into God’s presence by means of worship and sacrifice. Alternate translation: “ask me to pay attention to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 6 intro xu4q 0 # Hosea 6 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter continues using the poetic form to show how Yahweh will still show mercy to his wayward people, the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Gilead is an area in the northern kingdom of Israel where several of the tribes lived. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/mercy]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Change in speaker<br>There is a change in person from 6:1-3 to 6:4-11. In the first passage, the speaker is an anonymous Israelite, but in the rest of the chapter, the speaker is Yahweh.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br>Throughout the chapter, the author uses the metaphor of prostitution to say that his people have abandoned him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 6 1 a6ue 0 Connecting Statement: The people of Israel confess their need to repent. HOS 6 1 u9ye figs-parallelism 0 he has torn us to pieces … he has injured us God has punished the people of Israel because they disobeyed him and worshiped idols. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 6 1 ntx5 figs-parallelism 0 he will heal us … he will bandage our wounds Israel believes that God will be merciful to them when they repent and he will deliver them from their troubles. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 6 2 yn3u figs-idiom 0 After two days he will revive us; he will raise us up on the third day This represents a short period of time. Israel believes God will quickly come to rescue them from their enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HOS 6 2 id69 translate-numbers 0 two days … the third day “2 days … day 3” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]]) HOS 6 3 fc9r 0 Let us know Yahweh Here “know” means not only to learn God’s character and laws, but also to become faithful to him. HOS 6 3 mk9b figs-simile 0 His coming out is as sure as the dawn Yahweh will come to help his people just as surely as the sun rises each morning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 6 4 e5w6 0 Connecting Statement: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 6 4 e69c figs-rquestion 0 what will I do with you? God is expressing that his patience is coming to an end and what remains is judgment. Alternate translation: “it is hard to know what to do with you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 6 5 n7z6 figs-metaphor 0 So I have cut them to pieces by the prophets Through his prophets, Yahweh has pronounced destruction on the rebellious nation. The destruction, here called “cutting to pieces,” is as sure as the condemnation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 6 5 kr95 figs-simile 0 Your decrees are like the light that shines out Here the prophet Hosea is speaking to God. He may mean that when God gives the command for someone to die as punishment, it is like a bolt of lightning that strikes. Or he may mean that God’s commandments allow people to know the truth, just as light makes objects visible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 6 5 vv2v 0 Your decrees Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s commands” HOS 6 6 r5ls 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 6 6 vj1l 0 For I desire faithfulness and not sacrifice This grammatical construction in Hebrew signals here the idea of “more than,” as the next line shows (“and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings”). Alternate translation: “For I desire faithfulness more than sacrifice” HOS 6 7 xuu2 figs-metonymy 0 Like Adam This could mean: (1) this refers to Adam, the first man or (2) this is a metonym that represents the people who live in a city in Israel called Adam. Alternate translation: “Like the people in the city of Adam” or (3) this refers to people in general. The word “Adam” means “man” or “humankind.” Alternate translation: “Like all of humankind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 6 8 cwt2 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 6 8 jyk1 figs-metonymy 0 Gilead is a city … with footprints of blood “Footprints of blood” probably represents the evildoers and their acts of murder. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 6 9 drp6 0 the priests band together to commit murder on the way to Shechem We do not know what this refers to. Were priests actually guilty of attacking people on their way to Shechem, which was an important religious and political center? Or is the prophet saying that the priests have “killed” true knowledge and worship of Yahweh? It is best to translate this expression as plainly as possible. HOS 6 10 k436 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 6 10 tac2 figs-metonymy 0 Ephraim’s prostitution Here “prostitution” refers to Ephraim’s worship of false gods. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 6 10 f2vh 0 Israel has become unclean Israel has become unacceptable to God because of her actions. HOS 6 11 c9zv figs-activepassive 0 For you also, Judah, a harvest has been appointed If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I have set a time of harvest for you also, Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 6 11 nid7 figs-metaphor 0 harvest Here “harvest” represents God’s final judgment on Israel and Judah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 6 11 hag4 0 fortunes prosperity and security HOS 7 intro yc44 0 # Hosea 7 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter continues using poetic forms to speak of Yahweh’s anger over the sin of the people. The people are not seeking Yahweh; they are seeking other gods and looking for salvation from other nations like Egypt and Assyria. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Baking<br><br>Baking of bread is an extended metaphor in this chapter. Yahweh uses various aspects of this activity to show his displeasure with their sins. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Israel and Ephraim<br>This chapter begins by using two different names for the same group of people: Israel and Ephraim. It also mentions Samaria, which was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel. HOS 7 1 wc7w 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 7 1 l8yq figs-metaphor 0 I want to heal Israel Making Israel obedient to God again and receivers of his blessing is spoken of as if it were healing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 7 1 u93n figs-explicit 0 for they practice deceit The people are selling and buying products dishonestly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 7 1 u8xl 0 marauding band This is a group of people who are attacking other people without cause. HOS 7 2 t9av figs-metaphor 0 their deeds surround them The people’s evil deeds are probably spoken of here as if they were other people ready to accuse them of their crimes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 7 2 h9mh figs-synecdoche 0 they are before my face Here God is represented by his “face” which emphasizes his presence and awareness. Alternate translation: “and I see it all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HOS 7 3 aq6w 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. The Hebrew text is not clear in various places. However, many people interpret it as describing the royal officials as being unfaithful to God, and also as planning to assassinate the king, and then carrying out their plans. This seems to have happened more than once. These crimes are mentioned as illustrations of the wickedness into which the nation has sunk. HOS 7 4 ccn2 figs-metaphor 0 They are all adulterers The people committed spiritual adultery by worshiping idols and being unfaithful to Yahweh. They were probably also being unfaithful to their husbands or wives by sleeping with other people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 7 4 q95b figs-simile 0 like an oven heated by the baker If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This means the people had strong desires to do evil. Alternate translation: “like an oven which the baker heats” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 7 4 pvh6 0 kneading of the dough This is a part of the process of making bread. HOS 7 5 h9ht 0 On the day of our king This is perhaps a festival held by the king. HOS 7 5 zte7 figs-idiom 0 He reached out with his hand This probably means to unite or join with someone. It may mean that the king joins with his officials to mock things or people that should not be mocked, even God himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HOS 7 6 h4zw 0 General Information: The court officials’ plotting is described. Their anger is what motivates them to kill their king. HOS 7 6 wuv9 figs-simile 0 For with hearts like an oven This means like a fire burns in an oven, these people have strong evil desires within them. The people’s desires are represented by their “hearts.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 7 6 ml3f figs-metaphor 0 Their anger smolders The word “smolders” means something is burning slowly without a flame. Alternate translation: “Their anger grows slowly and quietly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 7 6 ydy1 figs-simile 0 it burns high like a flaming fire The intensity of their anger is spoken of as if it was a very hot fire. Alternate translation: “it gets very intense” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 7 7 b2nn figs-simile 0 They all are as hot as an oven This compares their anger to the heat that comes from an oven. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 7 7 z8ny figs-metaphor 0 they devour those who rule over them This seems to mean that the court officials kill their kings. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 7 8 a6qy 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 7 8 lqx6 0 Ephraim mixes himself among the peoples This is probably a reference to the efforts made by the northern kingdom’s kings to ally themselves with other nations for protection against attack. HOS 7 8 q1ji figs-synecdoche 0 Ephraim is a flat cake that has not been turned over If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Here “Ephraim” refers to the northern kingdom of Israel. The nation is weak, as flat bread that has not been doubled over in the oven by the baker for more strength. Alternate translation: “The people of Ephraim are like a cake that no one has turned over” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 7 9 qt4k figs-metonymy 0 Gray hairs are sprinkled on him Here “gray hairs” represent old age. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 7 9 qta1 figs-metaphor 0 but he does not know it However, this “old age” is clearly a way of saying that the northern kingdom is getting weaker and weaker, because the nation does not know it is “old.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 7 10 i323 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 7 10 l7dg figs-personification 0 The pride of Israel testifies against him This describes “pride” as a person who testifies against the people of Israel in court. This means their prideful attitude and behavior show that they are guilty of no longer obeying Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HOS 7 10 d1v1 figs-metaphor 0 nor have they sought him Israel’s lack of interest in Yahweh is spoken of as if he was lost and they were not trying to find him. Alternate translation: “nor have they tried to get him to pay attention to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 7 10 l1iz 0 in spite of all this Here “this” refers God allowing foreigners to defeat them and make them weak. HOS 7 11 wu9b figs-simile 0 Ephraim is like a dove, gullible and without sense Doves were thought to be foolish birds. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 7 11 jpu5 0 Egypt … Assyria These were powerful nations that Israel could ask for help. HOS 7 12 hur1 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 7 12 jg68 figs-metaphor 0 I will spread my net over them This is a way to catch birds. Yahweh continues to compare the people of Israel to doves. When they go to Egypt or Assyria for help, Yahweh will punish them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 7 12 zeb8 figs-simile 0 I will bring them down like the birds of the sky Yahweh speaks of the way he will judge Israel as if they were birds that he would catch in a net. Alternate translation: “I will hunt them like birds” or “I will catch them like a hunter catches birds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 7 12 c4zg 0 in their flocking together This expression extends the metaphor of the birds. HOS 7 14 uda3 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 7 14 jwr2 0 they wail on their beds It was usual for idol worshipers to eat ceremonial meals while reclining on couches or beds. HOS 7 14 wlv2 figs-metaphor 0 they turn away from me Here no longer worshiping God is spoken of as turning away from him. Alternate translation: “they no longer worship me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 7 15 kf6z figs-metaphor 0 Though I trained them and strengthened their arms This may be a military metaphor, in which God training the Israelites to love him and obey him is spoken of as if he had been training their men for war. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 7 16 k39m 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 7 16 r57a figs-simile 0 They are like a slack bow That is, a bow that has no bowstring, or that has no tension. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 7 16 q25q figs-metonymy 0 because of the insolence of their tongues Here “tongue” refers to what the officials say. Alternate translation: “because they insult me” or “because they curse me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 7 16 r7lt figs-abstractnouns 0 This will become their mockery in the land of Egypt If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **mockery**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “This is why people in Egypt will mock and laugh at Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HOS 8 intro sj97 0 # Hosea 8 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter continues to use the poetic form to communicate several other ways the people of Israel have sinned against God. First, Yahweh notes that they have set up a king without consulting him.<br>Next, they set up or reinstalled the golden calves of Samaria. Last, they were seeking help from other nations like Egypt and Assyria. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>This chapter contains some references to the “calf of Samaria.” This most likely refers to an image that was set up by an earlier king of Israel. He did this in order to discourage his people from going to Jerusalem, which was part of the southern kingdom of Judah. HOS 8 1 iyy7 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking about the coming of the Assyrian army to attack the northern kingdom. HOS 8 1 rq62 figs-metaphor 0 An eagle is coming over the house of Yahweh The eagle, a bird of prey, is sometimes used to represent the enemies of Israel. Alternate translation: “As an eagle hunts another animal, the enemies of Israel are coming to capture my people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 8 1 tc1q figs-metaphor 0 broken my covenant Here “broken” represents “disobeyed,” “violated.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 8 2 hq2r 0 know you Alternate translation: “are faithful to you” HOS 8 4 hqd2 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 8 4 h5ag figs-activepassive 0 but it was only so they might be cut off If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but the result will be that I will destroy the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 8 5 p53a figs-123person 0 Your calf has been rejected This could mean: (1) this is the prophet speaking. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has rejected your calf” or (2) Yahweh is speaking. Alternate translation: “I myself have rejected your calf” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) HOS 8 5 xu7a figs-metonymy 0 Your calf The people worshiped an idol that looked like a calf, so Yahweh is speaking of their worship as if it were the calf itself. Alternate translation: “Because you worship your calf idol, your worship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 8 5 k9n8 figs-metaphor 0 My anger is burning against these people Anger is often spoken of as if it were a fire. Alternate translation: “I am very angry with these people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 8 5 xq3d figs-rquestion 0 For how long will they stay guilty? Yahweh asks this question to express his anger about his people being impure. “I am angry with these people because they have no desire to be innocent.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 8 6 y4fg 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 8 7 hpc6 figs-metaphor 0 For the people sow the wind and reap the whirlwind To sow or plant the wind is to act in useless or destructive ways. To reap the whirlwind is to suffer disaster from one’s own actions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 8 7 ehs7 figs-idiom 0 The standing grain has no heads Here “head” refers to the part of the plant where the grain is. A stalk with no head has nothing to give to the farmer. In the same way, Israel’s actions will result in nothing good. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HOS 8 7 m4n5 figs-metaphor 0 If it does come to maturity, foreigners will devour it If any of Israel’s actions do happen to result in something good, Israel’s enemies will come and take it from them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 8 8 vk5d 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 8 8 qfd6 figs-metaphor 0 Israel is swallowed up “swallowed” means to be defeated and taken into exile. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The enemies of Israel have taken the Israelites away to other lands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 8 9 byr1 figs-simile 0 like a wild donkey all alone People often think of donkeys as being stubborn. This means the people of Israel refused to listen to Yahweh but instead went to the people of Assyria for help. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 8 9 s8b5 figs-metaphor 0 Ephraim has hired lovers for herself Ephraim’s alliances with other nations are spoken of as if they had paid them to become prostitutes for Ephraim. Alternate translation: “The people of Israel have tried to pay other nations to protect them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 8 10 inw9 0 because of the oppression of the king of princes That is, because the Assyrian king, also called “the Great King,” will make the people suffer. HOS 8 11 m4nc 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 8 12 ww4c figs-hypo 0 I could write down my law for them ten thousand times, but they would Yahweh is describing a hypothetical situation. Here “ten thousand times” is an exaggeration that means no matter how many times he gave the people the law, they would still refuse to obey him. Alternate translation: “Even if I wrote down my law for them very many times, they would” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]]) HOS 8 12 x66d translate-numbers 0 ten thousand “10,000” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]]) HOS 8 13 gmz3 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 8 13 fl3w 0 They will return to Egypt Because of their sin, God will send his people away as slaves to the Egyptians. HOS 9 intro lkm6 0 # Hosea 9 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>The chapter is written in poetic form to speak of Yahweh’s displeasure with Israel’s sins. He is showing the many ways in which they do not honor him. The priests and kings do not understand how they have totally broken their covenant with Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Exile<br>Because the covenant has been broken, the people will be exiled into another land. This actually shows the mercy of God toward his people. He did not destroy them; he simply moved them to another place. However, this chapter goes into detail about many parts of their society to show how far they have moved away from truly worshiping Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/mercy]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Change in speaker<br>In verse 16, Yahweh is speaking; but in verse 17, Hosea starts speaking. There is a change in pronouns; the use of “my God” must imply that someone other than Yahweh is speaking. HOS 9 1 fz5r 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 9 2 f2gu figs-personification 0 But the threshing floor and the winepress will not feed them This describes the threshing floor and the winepress as if they were humans that can feed someone. This means that the harvest will not provide enough grain for threshing to meet the needs of the people, and that it will not provide the grapes for pressing to make enough wine. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 9 2 nt1h 0 the new wine will fail them There will not be enough grape juice to make wine with. HOS 9 3 c8av 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 9 3 sdu7 0 Yahweh’s land This expression signals that Yahweh continues to view the land of Israel as his property, not the property of the Israelites. HOS 9 3 dgt9 figs-metaphor 0 unclean food This is food that the Israelites would normally refuse to eat because it would make them unacceptable to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 9 4 ag4r figs-simile 0 Their sacrifices will be to them like mourners’ food Here “mourners’ food” refers to what people would eat while they mourning because they were defiled and not acceptable to God. This means Yahweh will consider the people’s sacrifices to be defiled and he will not accept them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 9 4 yxx6 0 For their food will be for themselves only; it will not come into the house of Yahweh The people of Israel will have food to eat, but Yahweh will not accept it as a sacrifice. HOS 9 4 n7e6 figs-personification 0 it will not come into the house of Yahweh The unclean food is spoken of as if it were able to go places by itself. Of course, people actually had to take it with them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HOS 9 5 nbi8 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 9 5 i5uf figs-rquestion 0 What will you do on the day of an appointed festival, on the day of a festival for Yahweh? Hosea uses this question to emphasize that the people will no longer be able to observe their festivals when their enemies defeat them and take them captive. Alternate translation: “You will not be able to celebrate the festivals that Yahweh appointed for you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 9 5 vze5 figs-parallelism 0 the day of an appointed festival … the day of a festival for Yahweh Both of these mean the same thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 9 6 x9gb figs-123person 0 if they escape Here “they” still refers to the people of Israel. You can continue stating this is second person. Alternate translation: “if you escape” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) HOS 9 6 n2rn figs-metonymy 0 Egypt will gather them, and Memphis will bury them Egypt and Memphis refer to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “the army of Egypt will capture you. You will die there, and the people in the city of Memphis will bury you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 9 6 ymw7 figs-metaphor 0 As for their treasures of silver—sharp briers will possess them Briers growing in the places where Israelites stored their silver is spoken of as if the briers were human enemies that would take the Israelite’s precious possessions for themselves. Alternate translation: “Sharp briers will grow where they store their treasures of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 9 6 ks54 figs-doublet 0 sharp briers will possess them, and thorns will fill their tents Here “sharp briers” and “thorns” mean the same thing. To have briers and thorns growing represents a land that has become desolate and like a wilderness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 9 6 huq9 figs-metonymy 0 their tents Here “tents” represents the Israelites’ homes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 9 7 j1km 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 9 7 g5su figs-parallelism 0 The days for punishment are coming; the days for retribution are coming Hosea says these two similar phrases to emphasize that Yahweh will soon judge the people of Israel for their evil deeds. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 9 7 k43u figs-parallelism 0 The prophet is a fool, and the inspired man is insane These phrases mean basically the same thing. This could mean: (1) that the people regarded the prophets as madmen or (2) that the prophets had become crazy because of the sins that the people had committed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 9 7 ns2q figs-doublet 0 The prophet is a fool, and the inspired man is insane Here “prophet” and “inspired man” both mean a person who claims to receive messages from God. It is implied that these people are false prophets and only thought they received messages from God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 9 7 dpe1 figs-doublet 0 because of your great iniquity and great hostility The phrases “great iniquity” and “great hostility” share similar meanings. The iniquity of the people manifested itself in hostility towards Yahweh and his prophets. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HOS 9 8 s6hc 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 9 8 y37a figs-metaphor 0 The prophet is the watchman for my God over Ephraim A “watchman” watches outside his city to see if danger is coming. The prophet warning the people when they are sinning and are in danger of having his God punish them is spoken of as if he were a watchman for the city. Alternate translation: “The prophet is like a watchman for God over Ephraim” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 9 8 s65p 0 The prophet is the watchman for my God over Ephraim Some versions translate this passage as “The prophet with my God is the watchman over Ephraim.” HOS 9 8 zg9v figs-genericnoun 0 The prophet is This refers to prophets in general that God has appointed. Alternate translation: “Prophets are” or “True prophets are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]]) HOS 9 8 il1g figs-synecdoche 0 Ephraim Here “Ephraim” represents all the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HOS 9 8 f5r7 figs-metaphor 0 a bird snare is on all of his paths A “bird snare” is a trap used to catch a bird. This means the people of Israel do whatever they can to stop God’s prophet. Alternate translation: “the people set a trap for him wherever he goes” or “the people do all they can to harm him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 9 9 s4cm 0 They have deeply corrupted themselves as in the days of Gibeah “The people of Israel have sinned and become very corrupt as they did at Gibeah long ago.” This is probably a reference to the shocking actions of the tribe of Benjamin recounted in Judges 19-21. HOS 9 10 hd75 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 9 10 rt26 0 When I found Israel This refers to when Yahweh first started his relationship with the people of Israel by claiming them as his own special people. HOS 9 10 hf2a figs-parallelism 0 it was like finding grapes in the wilderness. Like the very first fruit of the season on the fig tree Both of these statements emphasize situations that are pleasing to a person. This means Yahweh was very happy when his relationship with the people of Israel started. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 9 10 d3sn translate-names 0 Baal Peor This is the name of a mountain in the land of Moab where the false god Baal was worshiped. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 9 11 hbj9 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 9 11 p7n6 figs-simile 0 their glory will fly away like a bird The people of Ephraim, or the northern kingdom of Israel, will lose everything that makes other nations respect them. Their glory will quickly disappear, as a bird flies away. Alternate translation: “their glory will be like a bird that flies away from them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 9 12 t5yp figs-metaphor 0 when I turn away from them When God stops helping the northern kingdom, it will be as if he physically turned away from them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 9 13 vx3t 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 9 13 us3g figs-metaphor 0 I have seen Ephraim, just like Tyre, planted in a meadow This speaks of the people being in a safe place as if they were a tree planted in a peaceful meadow. Alternate translation: “The nation of Israel was once beautiful and pleasant like the city of Tyre, like a tree that someone plants in a meadow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 9 13 bkh2 figs-synecdoche 0 Ephraim … Tyre Here “Ephraim” represents the whole northern kingdom of Israel. These places refer to the people who live in them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 9 13 n919 figs-metonymy 0 but Ephraim will bring out his children The word “children” are the people from that nation. Alternate translation: “but the people of Israel will bring out their children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 9 14 m7l2 figs-rquestion 0 Give them, Yahweh—what will you give them? Give them Hosea uses a question to emphasize that he wants Yahweh to give the people of Israel what they deserve. Alternate translation: “This is what I ask you, Yahweh, to give them: give them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 9 14 hqc1 0 a miscarrying womb To “miscarry” means that a pregnancy ends too early and the baby dies. Hosea is asking that all the nation’s women be like that. HOS 9 15 jgc2 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 9 15 c3ji figs-metonymy 0 I will drive them out of my house Yahweh is stating that he will force Israel out of his land, the land of Canaan. Here “my house” represents Canaan. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 9 15 z8j7 0 their officials the men who serve the king HOS 9 16 iyy3 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking in verse 16. Hosea begins speaking in verse 17. HOS 9 16 i7bg figs-metaphor 0 Ephraim is diseased, and their root is dried up; they bear no fruit Yahweh speaks of the people of Israel as if they were a diseased tree that does not produce fruit and is ready to be cut down. This is a statement that the people have become weak, and that soon their enemies will come and defeat them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 intro yd8u 0 # Hosea 10 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter is written in poetic form and continues the theme of Israel’s many sins against Yahweh. Even though Israel prospered for a time as they multiplied their sins, Yahweh was leading them toward destruction. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>Yahweh’s relationship to his people was not based on his people’s actions. Even though they rebelled, Yahweh still desired to rescue them. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Jacob<br><br>The repeated use of different names for the two kingdoms can be confusing. In verse 11, “Ephraim” refers to the northern kingdom of Israel, and “Judah” refers to the southern kingdom of Judah. However, Jacob is also mentioned. This use of “Jacob” makes us think of the earlier unified nation and may also refer to a future unified nation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 10 1 px1g 0 General Information: Hosea is speaking about Israel. HOS 10 1 rq8z figs-metaphor 0 Israel is a luxuriant vine that produces his fruit Israel is spoken of as a vine that was very fruitful. For a while the people prospered and were strong. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 1 z9ge 0 a luxuriant vine This vine produces more fruit than normal. HOS 10 1 b9ev 0 As his fruit increased … As his land produced more Both of these mean as the people prospered and grew stronger and richer. HOS 10 2 d7xd figs-synecdoche 0 Their heart is deceitful The “heart” refers to the whole person, emphasizing their emotions and desires. Alternate translation: “They are deceitful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HOS 10 2 qaa1 figs-metonymy 0 now they must bear their guilt Here “guilt” is a metonym for the punishment that is associated with it. This punishment is spoken of as if it was a heavy load for them to carry. Alternate translation: “now is the time that Yahweh will punish them for their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 3 wu2z 0 General Information: Hosea is speaking about Israel. HOS 10 3 c5c6 figs-rquestion 0 and a king—what could he do for us? The people wills say that their kings could not have helped them. Alternate translation: “Even if we had a king now, he could not help us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 10 4 kw7e figs-idiom 0 They speak empty words Here “empty words” refers to lies. Alternate translation: “They speak lies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HOS 10 4 qxu4 figs-metaphor 0 So justice springs up like poisonous weeds in the furrows of a field What they people called justice in their laws and legal decisions is spoken of as if it were a plant sprouting up. Alternate translation: “So their decisions are not just; instead, they are harmful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 4 pk52 figs-simile 0 like poisonous weeds in the furrows of a field Their lies and injustice spread throughout their nation and harm everyone like poisonous plants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 10 5 yyw7 0 General Information: Hosea is speaking about Israel. HOS 10 5 ete5 translate-names 0 Beth Aven This was a city on the border between the northern kingdom of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin in the southern kingdom. See how you translated this in [Hosea 4:15](../04/15.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 10 6 w5gu figs-activepassive 0 They will be carried to Assyria If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The Assyrians will carry them away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 10 6 lfq9 figs-doublet 0 Ephraim will be disgraced, and Israel will be ashamed of its idol If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And the people of Israel will be very ashamed because they had worshiped idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 10 6 uvj4 0 its idol Many versions interpret the Hebrew word in this passage as “advice,” “plans,” or “intentions.” HOS 10 7 a35s figs-activepassive 0 Samaria’s king will be destroyed If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The Assyrians will destroy the king of Samaria” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 10 7 ci5d figs-simile 0 like a chip of wood on the surface of the water This means the king of Samaria will be as helpless as a small piece of wood that waves of the water toss back and forth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 10 8 jvt8 figs-activepassive 0 The high places of wickedness will be destroyed If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The Assyrians will destroy Israel’s high places, where the people acted very wickedly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 10 8 u7pp figs-apostrophe 0 The people will say to the mountains, “Cover us!” and to the hills, “Fall on us!” People do not normally speak to things that cannot think or hear them. Translators may choose to have a different format for this passage if their languages do not allow such speech. Alternate translation: “The people will say, ‘We wish the mountains would cover us!’ and ‘We wish the hills would fall on us!’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]]) HOS 10 9 qgp5 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 10 9 v7l6 0 days of Gibeah This is probably a reference to the shocking actions of the tribe of Benjamin recounted in Judges 19-21. See how you translated this in [Hosea 9:9](../09/09.md). HOS 10 9 xx8q figs-metaphor 0 there you have remained This passage probably means that the people of the present time continue to act in the same ways that their ancestors did at Gibeah. Alternate translation: “and you think just as they did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 9 b6a6 figs-rquestion 0 Will not war overtake the sons of wrong in Gibeah? Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that those in Gibeah who do wrong will certainly have to endure war. And this speaks of the people having to endure war when their enemies come as if war were a person that would catch up with them. Alternate translation: “War will certainly come on those who do wrong in Gibeah.” or “Enemies will certainly attack those who do wrong in Gibeah.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 9 k8hf figs-idiom 0 the sons of wrong Here “son of” is an idiom that means “having the characteristic of.” Alternate translation: “those who do wrong” or “the evildoers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HOS 10 10 gmp6 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 10 10 uf9g 0 double iniquity This refers to the many sins of Israel. HOS 10 11 bf8z figs-metaphor 0 Ephraim is a trained heifer that loves to thresh A heifer loves to thresh because they can walk around freely without a yoke. Yahweh means that he has allowed the people of Israel to be free and have a pleasant life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 11 n6vd figs-metaphor 0 I will put a yoke on her fair neck. I will put a yoke on Ephraim Here “yoke” refers to suffering and slavery. Yahweh has been kind to the people of Israel, but the people have been unfaithful to him. So he will punish them and send them away as slaves. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 11 cp1r figs-metaphor 0 Judah will plow; Jacob will pull the harrow by himself Here “Judah” refers to the people of the southern kingdom and “Jacob” is the people of the northern kingdom. This means God will cause difficult times for both kingdoms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 10 11 g2e2 0 harrow a tool used to smooth the land and cover the seeds after plowing HOS 10 12 uye7 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 10 12 t19e figs-metaphor 0 Sow righteousness for yourselves, and reap the fruit of covenant faithfulness Righteousness and covenant faithfulness are spoken of as if they were crops that could be sown and harvested. The abstract nouns “righteousness” and “faithfulness” can be stated as “right” and “faithful.” Alternate translation: “Plow, now, and do what is right, and you will reap the fruit of faithful love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HOS 10 12 fvl9 figs-metaphor 0 Break up your unplowed ground When the ground is “unplowed” it is not ready to be planted. Yahweh means he wants the people to repent so they can start doing what is right. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 13 q9as figs-metaphor 0 You have plowed wickedness; you reaped injustice Wickedness and injustice are spoken of as if they were crops that could be sown and harvested. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 13 nsy5 figs-metaphor 0 You have eaten the fruit of deception The result of deception are spoken of as if they were a food that could be eaten. Alternate translation: “You now suffer the consequences of having deceived each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 10 14 yp1i 0 It will be as Shalman destroyed Beth Arbel on a day of battle The coming war is being compared to a battle long ago. HOS 10 14 fc5f translate-names 0 Shalman This is the name of a king who destroyed the city of Beth Arbel around 740 BC. His army murdered women and children in the attack. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 10 14 ist7 translate-names 0 Beth Arbel This is likely the name of a city of the tribe of Naphtali. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HOS 10 15 wql9 figs-metonymy 0 So it will happen to you, Bethel, because of your great wickedness Here “Bethel” represents the people who live there. The prophet addresses the people of Bethel as if they were there listening to him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]]) HOS 11 intro b7ac 0 # Hosea 11 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter continues using the poetic form to communicate about Yahweh’s relationship to the northern kingdom of Israel.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br>This chapter contains an extended metaphor of Israel as a male child in the care of Yahweh, his parent. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### Rhetorical question<br><br>Yahweh uses rhetorical questions to show his disappointment and anger at Israel’s persistent rejection of him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 11 1 h8vd 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking of caring for Israel like a parent cares for a child. HOS 11 1 w4nm figs-metaphor 0 When Israel was a young man Yahweh is speaking about the people of Israel as if they were a young man. Yahweh is referring to when he first started his relationship with the nation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 11 1 y9f3 figs-metaphor 0 I called my son out of Egypt “son” refers to the people of God the Father. Alternate translation: “I led my son out of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 11 2 imw3 figs-activepassive 0 The more they were called, the more they went away from me If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The more I called them to be my people, the more they refused me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 11 3 w384 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking about how he cared for Israel. HOS 11 3 mgr5 figs-metaphor 0 it was I who taught Ephraim to walk Yahweh refers to Israel as a small child whom he taught to walk. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 11 3 b3fi 0 lifted them up by their arms This expression continues the metaphor. Alternate translation: “took care of them” HOS 11 4 wy1e figs-parallelism 0 I led them with cords of humanity, with bands of love Yahweh loved his people in ways that they as humans could understand and appreciate. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 11 4 e1we figs-simile 0 I was to them like someone who eased the yoke on their jaws Yahweh is speaking of the nation of Israel as a hardworking animal whose work he made easier. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 11 4 j7cs 0 I bent down to them and fed them This expression continues the metaphor in which Israel is pictured as a young child. It may mean that Yahweh provided for all their physical needs. HOS 11 5 h9l8 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking about Israel. HOS 11 5 ng27 figs-rquestion 0 Will they not return to the land of Egypt? This question means that the nation of Israel will once again be slaves as they were in Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 11 5 lp4b figs-rquestion 0 Will Assyria not rule over them because they refuse to return to me? The nation of Israel will be captives of Assyria as a result of their refusal to remain faithful to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 11 6 emy8 figs-metonymy 0 The sword will fall on their cities Here “sword” represents the enemies of Israel who will destroy Israel’s cities. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 11 6 kgr1 figs-metonymy 0 destroy the bars of their gates Gates offered security to city inhabitants from their enemies, and the bars secured the closed gates. To destroy the bars meant to take away the people’s security. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 11 7 f2ee figs-123person 0 Though they call to the Most High Here God is speaking about himself in the third person. It can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “Though they call to me, the Most High” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) HOS 11 7 e7fv 0 no one will help them Yahweh will not allow anyone to help Israel because they turned away from him. HOS 11 8 ubx2 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking about Israel. HOS 11 8 nmr7 figs-rquestion 0 How can I give you up, Ephraim? How can I hand you over, Israel? Yahweh loves his people so much that he will not totally destroy them. These questions may be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “I will not give you up, Ephraim. I will not hand you over, Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 11 8 nb87 figs-rquestion 0 How can I make you like Admah? How can I make you like Zeboyim? Yahweh loves his people so much that he will not totally destroy them. These questions may be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “I do not want to act toward you as I acted toward Admah or make you like Zeboyim—cities that I destroyed along with Sodom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 11 8 s6u1 figs-metonymy 0 My heart has changed within me Here “heart” represents God’s will and decisions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 11 9 que5 0 For I am God and not a man God is not like people, who often decide very quickly to take revenge. HOS 11 9 xmy1 figs-abstractnouns 0 I will not come in wrath If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **wrath**, you can express the same idea with an adjective such as “angry.” Alternate translation: “I will not come to you and be angry with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HOS 11 10 k7zh 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking about when he will restore his people. HOS 11 10 ge5v figs-metaphor 0 They will follow Yahweh Worshiping and honoring Yahweh is spoken of as if it were following him (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 11 10 ct2q figs-simile 0 he will roar like a lion Yahweh making it possible for his people to return to his land is spoken of as if he were calling to his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 11 11 b5jk figs-simile 0 They will come trembling like a bird … like a dove They will come home quickly as a bird returns to its nest. “Trembling” may refer to the fluttering of a bird’s wings. It may also signal the people’s feelings of humility and reverence for God (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 11 11 kmq4 0 the declaration of Yahweh “what Yahweh has declared” or “what Yahweh has solemnly said.” See how you translated this in [Hosea 2:13](../02/13.md). HOS 11 12 i52h 0 General Information: Yahweh is talking about Israel and Judah. HOS 11 12 mtk3 figs-parallelism 0 Ephraim surrounds me with falsehood, and the house of Israel with deceit Lies and deceitful acts are spoken of as if they were objects that the people of the northern kingdom surrounded Yahweh with. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 11 12 csf5 figs-metonymy 0 But Judah is still going about with me Here “Judah” refers to the people who live there. This speaks of being loyal to God as “going about” with him. However, many versions have different interpretations of this difficult passage. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 12 intro z7s4 0 # Hosea 12 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Jacob<br><br>There is a parallel between Jacob and the northern kingdom of Israel. In the same way that Jacob returned to Yahweh, the northern kingdom should repent of their idolatry and turn back to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]]) HOS 12 1 k8wj 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 12 1 ec28 figs-synecdoche 0 Ephraim feeds on the wind Here “Ephraim” represents all the people of Israel. Also “wind” represents something that is useless or temporary. The people of Israel doing things that will not help them is spoken of as if they eat the wind. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 12 1 g9zd figs-metonymy 0 follows after the east wind East winds were very hot and destructive to the land. Here it represents anything that is destructive. The people doing things that will destroy themselves is spoken of as if they are following the east wind. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 12 1 ij53 0 carry olive oil to Egypt The people of Israel sent olive oil as a present to the king of Egypt to try and persuade him to help them. HOS 12 2 evm4 figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh also has a lawsuit against Judah Yahweh stating that the people of Judah have sinned against him and broken his covenant is spoken of as if Yahweh were accusing them in court. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Hosea 4:1](../04/01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 12 2 j5y6 figs-doublet 0 against Judah … punish Jacob for what he has done … repay him for his deeds Here “Judah” and “Jacob” both represent the people of Judah. Alternate translation: “against the people of Judah … punish them for what they have done … repay them for their deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 12 2 w5u6 0 lawsuit This is a complaint by one person against another person in a court of law. See how you translated this in [Hosea 2:2](../02/02.md). HOS 12 3 dr1v 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking about Jacob the ancestor of the Israelites. HOS 12 3 v8bh figs-explicit 0 In the womb Jacob grasped his brother by the heel Jacob wanted to take his brother’s place as the firstborn, so he tried to keep his brother from being born first. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 12 4 s9n9 figs-explicit 0 He struggled with the angel and won Jacob fought with an angel so that the angel would bless him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 12 5 j2gg 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 12 5 cy44 figs-activepassive 0 is his name to be called on If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Here “name” represents the entire character of God. Alternate translation: “is his name to which we pray” or “is his name by which we worship him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 12 6 guk8 0 Keep covenantal faithfulness and justice This refers to obeying God’s law and doing what is right. HOS 12 7 h5jj 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking about Israel. HOS 12 7 n12e 0 false scales The merchants use scales that do not accurately measure the weight of the money or products they are buying or selling. HOS 12 7 qvm9 0 they love to defraud The merchants cheat their customers by lying to them and taking more money than they should. HOS 12 8 bm7n figs-parallelism 0 I have certainly become very rich; I have found wealth for myself These two phrases mean the same thing and mean that the people of Ephraim consider themselves to be very prosperous. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 12 8 p9bb figs-metaphor 0 I have found wealth Becoming wealthy by trading is spoken of as finding wealth. Alternate translation: “I have made much money” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 12 8 p94j figs-doublet 0 they will not find any iniquity in me, anything that would be sin These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that the people of Ephraim consider themselves to be blameless. Learning that someone has sinned is spoken of as finding sin in that person. Alternate translation: “they will not discover that I have done anything sinful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 12 9 p92t 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel. HOS 12 9 a7dd 0 I am Yahweh your God from the land of Egypt This could mean: (1) “I am Yahweh your God, who brought your ancestors from the land of Egypt” or (2) “I have been your God ever since you were in the land of Egypt” or (3) “I became your God when you were in the land of Egypt” HOS 12 9 g5yk figs-metonymy 0 I will again make you live in tents This could mean: (1) Yahweh is threatening to force the people of Israel from their homes and make them live in tents. So, here to “live in tents” would represent being sent into exile, or (2) it is a promise that after their exile the people will live in tents again, and Yahweh will take care of them as he did when the Israelites left Egypt. So, here “to live in tents” would represent a return to an ideal situation when Yahweh took care of his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 12 10 q6ni figs-synecdoche 0 By the hand of the prophets Here “hand” represents the one who carries out an action. Alternate translation: “Through the prophets” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HOS 12 11 kqj8 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 12 11 h73r figs-simile 0 their altars will be like heaps of stone in the furrows of the fields The altars where the people worshiped will be thrown down and become piles of stones. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 12 12 bxi4 0 Jacob fled to the land of Aram; Israel worked in order to get a wife Here “Jacob” and “Israel” refer to the same person. Jacob’s name became Israel later in his life. HOS 12 13 a79t 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 12 13 a8xe 0 by a prophet That is, Moses. HOS 12 14 v7cg 0 bitterly The anger that the people have caused in Yahweh is extremely great. HOS 12 14 czc8 figs-metonymy 0 So his Lord will leave his blood on him Here “blood” refers to the guilt incurred by people who murder others. God will not forgive their sins. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 12 14 ay94 figs-metaphor 0 will turn back on him his disgrace The idea of making someone suffer the results of his own actions is spoken of as if those actions were objects that were thrown back at him. Alternate translation: “will make him suffer from his own disgraceful actions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 intro la1r 0 # Hosea 13 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter uses poetry to communicate Yahweh’s disgust and anger with the northern kingdom of Israel.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>“Israel” and “Ephraim” are terms used to speak about the people of the northern kingdom. Samaria was the capital of the northern kingdom. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>This chapter makes it clear that the northern kingdom is going to be nearly decimated as a people. They will no longer exist as a nation.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical question<br><br>Hosea uses rhetorical questions throughout this chapter. They are not questions requesting information but rather questions indicating some emotion like anger or dissatisfaction. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 13 1 u92j 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 13 1 aw8s figs-synecdoche 0 When Ephraim spoke Hosea uses the term “Ephraim” to refer to the entire northern kingdom, although it was also the name of one of the ten tribes. Hosea seems to be speaking of a long-past time, when the northern kingdom was strong and honored, unlike at the present time. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HOS 13 1 hyz3 figs-explicit 0 there was trembling It is understood that people were trembling because they were afraid of Ephraim. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “there was trembling among the people” or “people trembled in fear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 13 1 lw4y figs-metaphor 0 He exalted himself in Israel Here “exalting” means to make oneself important. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 1 nqg7 figs-metaphor 0 but he became guilty because of Baal worship, and he died When the people of Ephraim began worshiping Baal, they grew weak, and their enemies defeated them. Here “died” refers to the nation growing weak. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 2 rtl5 0 Now they sin more and more Here “they” refers to the tribe of Ephraim and the entire nation of Israel, who followed Ephraim’s example. HOS 13 2 q78p figs-explicit 0 These men who sacrifice kiss calves Part of idol worship was kissing idol figures that were images of calves. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 13 3 jbj2 figs-simile 0 So they will be like the morning clouds … like the dew … like the chaff … like smoke out of a chimney These expressions state that Israel is temporary and will soon disappear if they continue to worship idols instead of following Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 13 3 l2kj figs-activepassive 0 that is driven by the wind away If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that the wind blows away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 13 4 k7l1 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking of his people as if they had been a flock of sheep that he found wandering in the wilderness. He says that he claimed them there for his own. HOS 13 5 gbf1 0 I knew you in the wilderness Yahweh claimed the Hebrew people as his own special people, and he took care of them there. HOS 13 6 nkz8 0 When you had pasture, then you became full The image of sheep is continued with this expression. HOS 13 6 cq2p figs-metaphor 0 your heart became lifted up Becoming arrogant is spoken of as one’s heart being lifted up. Alternate translation: “you became proud” (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 7 x7c5 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 13 7 tq4b figs-simile 0 like a lion … like a leopard These are wild animals that attack and kill other animals. Yahweh continues to say that he will destroy his people for their sins. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 13 8 y1e5 figs-simile 0 as a bear … as a lion … as a wild beast These are wild animals that attack and kill other animals. Yahweh continues to say that he will destroy his people for their sins. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 13 8 ft6g figs-ellipsis 0 as a bear that is robbed of her cubs The words “would attack” are left out because they are understood. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “like a bear would attack an animal that takes her cubs” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 13 8 bl6f figs-ellipsis 0 as a lion The words “would devour them” are left out because they are understood. Alternate translation: “as a lion would devour them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) HOS 13 9 jdv7 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 13 9 k6kg figs-rquestion 0 who will be able to help you? Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that no one will be able to help the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “there will be no on able to help you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 13 10 vd6r figs-rquestion 0 Where now is your king, that he may save you in all your cities? Where are your rulers, about whom you said to me, ‘Give me a king and princes’? Yahweh asks these questions to tell Israel that when they rebel against him, no king or ruler can help them. Only Yahweh can save them from destruction. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 13 12 v1mf 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 13 12 d9c6 figs-parallelism 0 Ephraim’s iniquity has been stored up; his guilt has been stored up These two phrases are similar and mean basically the same thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 13 12 f96y figs-metaphor 0 has been stored up The northern kingdom’s iniquity and guilt are spoken of as if they were objects that could be kept for a purpose. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 13 ba82 figs-metaphor 0 Pains of childbirth will come on him Here Yahweh speaks of the suffering the people of Israel will suffer as if it were the pains of child birth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 13 b6hn figs-metaphor 0 but he is an unwise son, for when it is time to be born, he does not come out of the womb Yahweh now describes the people of Israel as the baby to which the mother is giving birth. The baby is unwise because it does not want to be born. The people do not want to repent and obey Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 14 yv5m 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 13 14 q1qb figs-rquestion 0 Will I rescue them from the hand of Sheol? Will I rescue them from death? Yahweh uses these questions to tell the people of Israel that he is not going to save them from dying. He will certainly punish them. Alternate translation: “I will certainly not rescue them from death and from going down to Sheol.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 13 14 iq7j figs-personification 0 Where, death, are your plagues? Where, Sheol, is your destruction? Yahweh speaks to “death” and “Sheol” as if they were people. Yahweh uses questions to say that he will destroy the people soon. Alternate translation: “Now I will cause plagues and let the people of Israel die. I will destroy them and send them to Sheol.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 13 14 zq3t figs-metaphor 0 Compassion is hidden from my eyes Not to think about having compassion is spoken of as if compassion were hidden so that it cannot be seen. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **compassion**, you can express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “I have no compassion for them” or “I will not be compassionate towards them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HOS 13 15 w2sd 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 13 15 r777 figs-metaphor 0 his brothers This expression seems to stand for the nations around the northern kingdom, especially Judah, the southern kingdom. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 15 nj8n figs-metaphor 0 an east wind will come; the wind of Yahweh A wind from the east was very hot and destructive. Here it refers to the armies from the east that Yahweh will send to destroy the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 15 cy4j figs-metaphor 0 Ephraim’s spring will dry up, and his well will have no water Hosea continues to describe how God will punish the people of Israel. Here water represents life, vitality, and strength. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 15 g7kl figs-metaphor 0 his storehouse This refers to all of the peoples’ possessions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 13 16 hb4l 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 13 16 y8fa figs-metonymy 0 Samaria will be guilty, for she has rebelled against her God Here “Samaria” refers to the people in the city of Samaria who are guilty of rebelling against God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 13 16 g4vn figs-euphemism 0 They will fall Here to “fall” represents dying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]]) HOS 13 16 w5hv figs-metonymy 0 by the sword Here the “sword” represents the enemy soldiers who used swords in battle. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 13 16 kms6 figs-activepassive 0 their young children will be dashed to pieces, and their pregnant women will be ripped open These phrases can be put into the active voice. Alternate translation: “the enemy will dash their young children to pieces, and they will rip open the pregnant women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HOS 14 intro bp7t 0 # Hosea 14 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This last chapter of Hosea ends with hope. In this chapter, Hosea calls for Israel to confess to Yahweh and repent. This chapter continues to be written in poetic form, using metaphors and other devices to communicate God’s love for his sinful people. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/confess]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/love]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>Why are confession and repentance even suggested here for a people that Yahweh has already condemned to be destroyed? It is because this is a teaching that Yahweh is a merciful God who loves his people. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/mercy]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Speaker<br>The use of first and second person in this chapter often signifies a change in speaker. In this chapter, Hosea is speaking to the northern kingdom to tell them that Yahweh loves them.<br>There are several places in this chapter where the writer switches from the third person to the second or the first person. This may cause some confusion about who is speaking. HOS 14 1 x5ih 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 14 1 e3je figs-metaphor 0 for you have fallen because of your iniquity Sinning is spoken of here as if it were falling. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 14 2 bl3b figs-explicit 0 Take with you words This probably means words of confession and praise. Alternate translation: “Confess your sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HOS 14 2 xcc8 figs-metonymy 0 the fruit of our lips What a person says is called the fruit of his lips. Modern versions have different translations of this difficult passage. Alternate translation: “our words and songs of praise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HOS 14 3 r5m5 0 General Information: Hosea is speaking HOS 14 3 xvt4 figs-synecdoche 0 to the work of our hands Here people are represented by their “hands” to refer to the people making things. Alternate translation: “to the idols we made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HOS 14 3 y9ak 0 the fatherless person This expression stands perhaps for the entire nation. It indicates God’s enormous compassion for his people. HOS 14 3 mh3w figs-abstractnouns 0 finds compassion Here the act of God having compassion is spoken of as if it were an object that someone experiencing that compassion had found. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **compassion**, you can express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “finds one who is compassionate” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HOS 14 4 j8i4 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 14 4 x6kz figs-metaphor 0 I will heal their turning away Stopping the people from turning away from God is spoken of as if he were healing them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 14 4 e5gg figs-metaphor 0 their turning away The failure of the people to obey God is spoken of as if they had physically turned away from him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 14 5 akq8 figs-simile 0 I will be like the dew to Israel; he will blossom like the lily God is spoken of as if he were dew that brought needed moisture to plants, and Israel is spoken of as if it were one person, and as if he were a flower that could blossom. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 14 5 s2km figs-simile 0 take root like a cedar in Lebanon The picture of Israel in the form of a plant is continued here, but this time in the form of a tall cedar tree in Lebanon, which was known for such trees. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 14 6 pa2f figs-simile 0 His branches will spread out … like the cedars in Lebanon This passage continues the same image. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 14 7 ia8e 0 General Information: Yahweh is speaking. HOS 14 7 z3a1 figs-metaphor 0 The people who live in his shade will return The people of Israel will once again live protected by God. Israel is spoken of as living in his shade. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 14 7 e5fj figs-simile 0 they will revive like grain and blossom like vines Israel’s new prosperity is spoken of in agricultural terms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 14 7 h77b figs-simile 0 His fame will be like the wine of Lebanon Just as Lebanon’s wine was famous, so Israel will be famous. Alternate translation: “People everywhere will know about the nation of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 14 8 as1u figs-rquestion 0 what more have I to do with idols? This passage signifies that God will stop the people of Israel from worshiping idols any longer. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HOS 14 8 v7m9 figs-simile 0 a cypress whose leaves are always green A cypress is a tree whose leaves stay green all year. This represents Yahweh and his blessings on Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HOS 14 8 dja4 figs-metaphor 0 from me comes your fruit Here “fruit” represents every good thing that comes from Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 14 9 sr4g 0 General Information: Hosea the prophet is speaking. HOS 14 9 rmk6 figs-rquestion 0 Who is wise that he may understand these things? Who understands these things so that he may know them? The prophet uses these questions to say that wise people will understand and listen to what has been said to them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HOS 14 9 y4up figs-metaphor 0 For the ways of Yahweh are right, and the righteous will walk in them Yahweh’s commandments are spoken of as ways to walk in. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HOS 14 9 ilu4 figs-metaphor 0 stumble Disobeying Yahweh is spoken of as if it were stumbling while walking. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])