richmahn_en_tn/en_tn_28-HOS.tsv

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2HOSfrontintrok6lu0# Introduction to Hosea<br><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 (1:13:5)<br>1. Israel betrays, wanders, and sins; Yahweh appeals and pleas to return to him (4:17:3)<br>1. The conflict between Yahweh and Israel explained in various ways (7:413:8)<br> * Similes: oven, cake, dove, bow (7:416)<br> * Israel openly lies and rebels (8:114)<br> * The end of Israel predicted (9:117)<br> * Similes: grapes, vine, calf, lion, children, birds, and doves (10:111:11)<br> * Israel sins, betrays, and breaks alliances (11:1212:1)<br> * Israels history remembered (12:213:16)<br> * Idolatry (13:18)<br>1. Israel is hostile to Yahweh (13:916)<br>1. Yahwehs last appeals to Israel (14:19)<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 414 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]])
3HOS1introud3c0# 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>### Hoseas marriage<br>God does not approve of prostitution, but he told Hosea to marry a prostitute so that the message of Israels unfaithfulness would be shown to the people. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])<br><br>Hoseas marriage to Gomer is a metaphor for the kingdom of Israels 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.
4HOS11x3qafigs-idiom0the word of Yahweh that cameThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “the word that Yahweh God spoke” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
5HOS11fhy8translate-names0BeeriThis is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
6HOS11f238translate-names0Uzziah … Jotham … Ahaz … Hezekiah … Jeroboam … JoashThe events in this book happened during the time of these kings. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
7HOS11ghv40YahwehThis 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.
8HOS12m57nfigs-metaphor0great prostitutionHere “prostitution” represents the people being unfaithful to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
9HOS13l8fbtranslate-names0Gomer … DiblaimThese are names of people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
10HOS14gin3figs-metaphor0the house of JehuHere “house” means “family,” including Jehus descendants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
11HOS14ykw9figs-metaphor0the house of IsraelThis expression refers to kingdom of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
12HOS15e655figs-metonymy0the bow of IsraelHere “bow” refers to the power of the army. Alternate translation: “the military power of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
13HOS16jgz9translate-names0Lo-RuhamahThis 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]])
14HOS18r52qtranslate-names0Lo-RuhamahThis 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]])
15HOS19a6mvtranslate-names0Lo-AmmiThis 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]])
16HOS110q3ve0General Information:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea.
17HOS110mc4bfigs-simile0like the sand of the seashoreThis emphasizes the great number of Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
18HOS110tps4figs-activepassive0which cannot be measured or countedIf 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]])
19HOS110u2atfigs-activepassive0It will be that where it was said to themIf 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]])
20HOS110zlv30where it was said to themThis expression probably refers to Jezreel, the city where crimes had been committed by kings of Israel, and which was a symbol of Gods punishment of them.
21HOS110lb2wfigs-activepassive0it will be said to themIf 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]])
22HOS111vlg4figs-activepassive0will be gathered togetherIf 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]])
23HOS111t1bm0go up from the landThis expression might refer to the land where the people of Israel were in captivity.
24HOS111b5bzfigs-explicit0the day of JezreelThis 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]])
25HOS2introh75z0# 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><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]])
26HOS21qq880Connecting Statement:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea.
27HOS21if49figs-exclamations0My people!This exclamation may be presented as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are my people!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])
28HOS21z5anfigs-activepassive0You have been shown compassionIf 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]])
29HOS21e5gw0compassionAlternate translation: “kindness” or “mercy”
30HOS22d1d50General Information:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea.
31HOS22t1g60lawsuitThis is a complaint by one person against another person in a court of law.
32HOS22d9bqfigs-metaphor0your motherHere “mother” refers to the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
33HOS22vb8mfigs-metaphor0for she is not my wifeYahweh 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]])
34HOS22e3qhfigs-metaphor0neither am I her husbandYahweh 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]])
35HOS22l76mfigs-metaphor0her acts of adulteryA 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]])
36HOS22qp68figs-metaphor0from between her breastsThis imagery suggests that Israel is relying on the idols and not Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
37HOS23x3z9figs-metaphor0I will strip her naked and show her nakedness as on the day that she was bornYahweh 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]])
38HOS23w84ffigs-simile0I will make her like the wildernessYahweh will change Israel to resemble the wilderness, which is a region that is bare and unproductive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
39HOS23tk9lfigs-metaphor0I will make her die from thirstHere “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]])
40HOS24dt2c0General Information:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea.
41HOS24ck3efigs-metaphor0for they are children of prostitutionThe 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]])
42HOS25bbd9figs-metaphor0For their mother has been a prostituteThe previous generation who sought out other gods were considered prostitutes for they were unfaithful to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
43HOS25pdr2figs-metonymy0I will go after my lovers, for they give me my bread and water, my wool and flax, my oil and drinkHere “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]])
44HOS26e3xg0General Information:Yahweh is talking to Hosea.
45HOS26n4vefigs-metaphor0Therefore 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 wayThis 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]])
46HOS27pk67figs-metaphor0Then 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]])
47HOS28i5590General Information:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea.
48HOS29v55ufigs-metonymy0I will take back my wool and flax that were used to cover her nakednessThis probably means that Israels 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]])
49HOS29rl9dfigs-activepassive0were used to cover her nakednessIf 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]])
50HOS210fpp30General Information:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea.
51HOS210jfc9figs-metaphor0Then I will strip her naked in the sight of her loversThis 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]])
52HOS210j4bhfigs-metonymy0no one will rescue her out of my handNo one will try to help Israel. Here “hand” refers to Gods power to punish. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
53HOS212ege90General Information:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do to Israel.
54HOS212bqk9figs-metaphor0These are the wages that my lovers gave meThis 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]])
55HOS212f2fcfigs-metaphor0make them a forestYahweh 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]])
56HOS213i7k2figs-123person0this is Yahwehs declarationYahweh 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]])
57HOS214a2gy0Connecting Statement:Yahweh is speaking about Israel.
58HOS214uxh60So I am going to win her backAlternate translation: “I, Yahweh, will bring her back to me”
59HOS215cf8d0the Valley of Achor as a door of hopeAs Yahweh lead Israel out of Egypt, he will lead Israel to the Valley of Achor so that Israel will hope again in Yahweh.
60HOS215sql9figs-metaphor0She 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 EgyptYahweh 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]])
61HOS215hhr50She will answerSome modern versions understand the Hebrew word to mean “She will sing.”
62HOS216m6ggfigs-metaphor0My husbandThis 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]])
63HOS216sid2figs-metaphor0My Baal“Baal” means “master” and also refers to the false god that the Canaanites worship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
64HOS217f9ggfigs-synecdoche0For I will remove the names of the Baals from her mouthThe 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]])
65HOS218ma1m0Connecting Statement:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do to Israel.
66HOS218puj70On that dayThis phrase is used to talk about a future restoration between Israel and Yahweh.
67HOS218j2tx0I will make a covenant for themYahwehs new covenant will include peace for the animals.
68HOS218c1umfigs-metonymy0I will drive away the bow, the sword, and the battle from the land, and I will make you lie down in safetyYahweh will keep Israels 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]])
69HOS218u7mvfigs-metonymy0lie down in safetyThis expression refers to living in safety. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
70HOS219t7wt0General Information:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do for Israel.
71HOS219h2m4figs-metaphor0I will promise to be your husband foreverYahweh will be like the husband, and Israel will be like Yahwehs wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
72HOS219t45vfigs-abstractnouns0in righteousness, justice, covenant faithfulness, and mercyThis 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]])
73HOS220tas90you will know YahwehHere “know” means to acknowledge Yahweh as their God and to be faithful to him.
74HOS221bb870General Information:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do for Israel.
75HOS222w8qhfigs-personification0The earth will answer the grain, the new wine and the oil, and they will answer JezreelThe 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]])
76HOS222zi92figs-metaphor0JezreelHere the name of this valley stands for all the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
77HOS223u9ni0General Information:Yahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do for Israel.
78HOS223jl7bfigs-metaphor0I will plant her for myself in the landWhen 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]])
79HOS223z8datranslate-names0Lo-RuhamahThis 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]])
80HOS223l22qtranslate-names0Lo-AmmiThis 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]])
81HOS223j39ctranslate-names0Ammi AttahThis 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]])
82HOS3introk2ts0# Hosea 3 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter focuses on the meaning of the illustration of Hoseas marriage. It is a very short chapter written in prose to show the truth of Israels 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]])
83HOS31t4kg0Go again, love a woman, loved by her husband, but who is an adulteressThis refers back to [Hosea 1:2](../01/02.md). Yahweh again tells Hosea to love an adulterous woman.
84HOS31sa34translate-symaction0Love her just as I, Yahweh, love the people of IsraelBy loving the adulterous woman, Hosea will be an example of Yahwehs love for Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
85HOS31rvb90they turn to other gods and love raisin cakesPeople ate raisin or fig cakes during festivals where they worshiped false gods.
86HOS32ik7l0fifteen pieces of silver and a homer and a lethek of barleyThis was the price to buy a slave.
87HOS32x615translate-numbers0fifteen pieces“15 pieces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
88HOS32e35qtranslate-bvolume0a homer and a lethek of barleyThis can be stated in modern units. Alternate translation: “330 liters of barley” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])
89HOS34s5dq0For the people of Israel will live for many days without a king, prince, sacrifice, stone pillar, ephod or household idolsJust as Hosea lived without his wife because she committed adultery, Israel will live without a king and without worshiping God, because they committed idolatry.
90HOS35klf50seek Yahweh their GodHere “seek” means they are asking God to accept them and their worship.
91HOS35ce6ifigs-metonymy0David their kingHere “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]])
92HOS35plr40in the last daysAlternate translation: “in the future”
93HOS35h6dbfigs-metonymy0they will come trembling before Yahweh and his goodnessHere “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]])
94HOS4introm65b0# 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]])
95HOS41k5fr0General Information:This chapter begins Yahwehs argument against the unfaithful Israelites.
96HOS41t2hufigs-metaphor0Yahweh has a lawsuit against the inhabitants of the landYahweh 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]])
97HOS41ste30lawsuitThis 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).
98HOS42a1s6figs-metaphor0The people have broken all boundsHere “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]])
99HOS42i3ntfigs-abstractnouns0bloodshed comes after bloodshedHere “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]])
100HOS43y9lx0So the land is drying upThis expression refers to drought, when no rain falls for a long time.
101HOS43mp1u0wasting awaybecoming weak and dying because of sickness or lack of food
102HOS43m1s9figs-activepassive0are being taken awayIf 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]])
103HOS44xl630General Information:Yahweh is speaking about Israel.
104HOS44gz4e0lawsuita complaint by one person against another person in a court of law
105HOS44t69t0do not let anyone accuse anyone elseNo one should accuse another person of anything because everyone is guilty of something.
106HOS45j4lafigs-metaphor0You priests will stumbleHere “stumble” means to disobey God or even to stop trusting him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
107HOS45a2zyfigs-metaphor0I will destroy your motherHere “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]])
108HOS46qhc80General 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.
109HOS46pq57figs-activepassive0My people are being destroyed because of the lack of knowledgeIf 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]])
110HOS46j1k4figs-explicit0knowledgeHere “knowledge” refers to the knowledge of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
111HOS47g6wyfigs-metonymy0They exchanged their honor for shameThis 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]])
112HOS48ajz2figs-explicit0They feed on the sin of my peopleWhen 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 peoples sins. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
113HOS48e3kkfigs-explicit0they are greedy for more of their wickednessThe 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]])
114HOS49lv380It will be the same for the people as for the priestsAlternate translation: “The people and the priests will be punished in the same way”
115HOS49xfi60their practicesAlternate translation: “their habits” or “their conduct”
116HOS410y17j0General Information:Yahweh is talking about Israel.
117HOS410p57j0but not increaseAlternate translation: “but not have children”
118HOS410az6x0they have gone far awayThe people have stopped worshiping and following God.
119HOS410j8twfigs-123person0from YahwehYahweh 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]])
120HOS411da240Connecting Statement:Yahweh is talking about Israel.
121HOS411ql5tfigs-personification0sexual promiscuity, wine, and new wine, which have taken away their understandingThe people of Israel are pursuing sex outside of marriage and drinking too much wine. In doing these activities they have forgotten Yahwehs 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]])
122HOS412b2e9figs-personification0their walking sticks give them propheciesIdol 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]])
123HOS412gu5rfigs-personification0a mind of promiscuity has misled themWorshiping 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]])
124HOS412mu4tfigs-metaphor0has misledhas convinced the people to sin (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
125HOS413f8ym0General Information:Yahweh is talking about Israel.
126HOS413u9e70on the tops of the mountains … on the hillsIt was common for the people to set up idols in these places, often called “high places” in the Old Testament.
127HOS414q3pu0sacred prostitutesThese 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.
128HOS414asb1figs-metaphor0So this people who does not understand will be thrown downYahweh will destroy the nation of Israel because they do not understand or obey Gods commandments. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
129HOS415n41g0General Information:Yahweh is talking about Judah and Israel.
130HOS415sei70may Judah not become guiltyGod knows how sinful Israel has become and does not want Judah to do the same thing.
131HOS415g1ti0Do not go to Gilgal, you people; do not go up to Beth AvenThe 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.
132HOS415wj2ftranslate-names0Beth AvenThis 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]])
133HOS416vaf7figs-simile0like a stubborn heiferIsrael is compared to a young cow that will not obey its master. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
134HOS416b1k8figs-metaphor0How 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]])
135HOS416un2pfigs-123person0How can YahwehHere 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]])
136HOS417y9hs0General Information:Yahweh is talking about Israel.
137HOS417vcx4figs-synecdoche0Ephraim united himself with idols; leave him aloneHere “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]])
138HOS418t2qi0her rulers dearly love their shameThe rulers are not ashamed of what they are doing when they worship idols and turn against Yahweh.
139HOS419kwi7figs-metaphor0The wind will wrap her up in its wingsHere “wind” represents Gods 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]])
140HOS5introcz2x0# 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]])
141HOS51qy780Connecting Statement:Yahweh is talking about Israel.
142HOS51i4kftranslate-names0You have been a snare at Mizpah and a net spread over TaborA 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]])
143HOS52e4c5figs-metaphor0The rebels stand deep in slaughterHere “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]])
144HOS52z7ql0The rebelsThe translator can represent this as “You rebels,” because God is really talking to the rebellious people of Israel.
145HOS52u6yj0in slaughterSome modern versions interpret the Hebrew expression as standing for wickedness.
146HOS52ncj10I will punish all of themThe translator can represent this as “I will punish all of you.”
147HOS53ki2p0General Information:Yahweh is talking about Israel.
148HOS53b88ufigs-synecdoche0I know Ephraim, and Israel is not hidden from meHere, “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]])
149HOS53vw9ufigs-simile0Ephraim, now you have become like a prostituteEphraim 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]])
150HOS54xz8q0for the mind of adultery is in themThis means they have the desire to be unfaithful to God. They want to worship idols.
151HOS54hh5e0to turn to God … they do not know YahwehThe 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.”
152HOS54kub10they do not know YahwehIsrael no longer obeys Yahweh in any way. They do not acknowledge Yahweh as their God.
153HOS55iu6y0General Information:Yahweh is talking about Israel.
154HOS55rch3figs-personification0The pride of Israel testifies against himThis 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]])
155HOS55px3dfigs-idiom0so Israel and Ephraim will stumble in their guilt; and Judah also will stumble with themThe two kingdoms will become completely disobedient to God because of their pride and sin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
156HOS57im5k0They were unfaithful to Yahweh, for they have borne illegitimate childrenThis 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.
157HOS57yu59figs-personification0Now the new moon festivals will devour them with their fieldsThe 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]])
158HOS58uh2c0General Information:Yahweh is talking about Israel.
159HOS58tj5pfigs-doublet0Blow the horn in Gibeah, and the trumpet in RamahHere “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]])
160HOS58s184figs-synecdoche0Sound 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]])
161HOS58ail1translate-names0Beth AvenThis 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]])
162HOS59n3pe0Among the tribes of Israel I have declared what is certain to happenAlternate translation: “I will do to the tribes of Israel what I have declared”
163HOS510x6j70General Information:Yahweh is talking about Judah and Israel.
164HOS510jdz8figs-simile0The leaders of Judah are like those who move a boundary stoneTo “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]])
165HOS510wbd7figs-metaphor0I will pour my wrath on them like waterYahwehs 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]])
166HOS511x64tfigs-parallelism0Ephraim is crushed; he is crushed in judgmentIf 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]])
167HOS511f3tbfigs-metaphor0walked after idolsHere “walked” represents the idea of worshiping. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
168HOS511ww390idolsThe Hebrew word translated here as “idols” is uncertain in its meaning, and is translated by modern versions in many different ways.
169HOS512jy1j0General Information:Yahweh is talking about Judah and Israel.
170HOS512z5lpfigs-simile0I will be like a moth to Ephraim, and like rot to the house of JudahA 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]])
171HOS512y9bw0moth … rotThese two terms are translated in various ways because the meaning of the Hebrew word is either very broad or it is uncertain.
172HOS513pf8ffigs-metaphor0When Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah saw his woundBoth 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]])
173HOS513e5lq0then Ephraim went to Assyria, and Judah sent messengers to the great kingEphraim and Judah asked Assyria for help instead of asking Yahweh for help. “Great king” was a title for the king of Assyria.
174HOS513be1d0But he was not ableHere “he” refers to the king of Assyria.
175HOS514mxf10General Information:Yahweh is talking about Judah and Israel.
176HOS514su9ffigs-simile0So I will be like a lion to EphraimYahweh is going to pursue and attack Ephraim like a lion. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
177HOS514bpl6figs-simile0like a young lion to the house of JudahYahweh 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]])
178HOS514rse70I, even IYahweh is emphasizing that he is the one that is bringing judgment on all of his people.
179HOS514y54ffigs-metaphor0will tearAs 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]])
180HOS515gc860I will go and return to my placeYahweh will leave his rebellious people.
181HOS515w7fgfigs-metaphor0seek my faceTry to come into Gods presence by means of worship and sacrifice. Alternate translation: “ask me to pay attention to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
182HOS6introxu4q0# 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><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><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]])
183HOS61a6ue0Connecting Statement:The people of Israel confess their need to repent.
184HOS61u9yefigs-parallelism0he has torn us to pieces … he has injured usGod has punished the people of Israel because they disobeyed him and worshiped idols. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
185HOS61ntx5figs-parallelism0he will heal us … he will bandage our woundsIsrael 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]])
186HOS62yn3ufigs-idiom0After two days he will revive us; he will raise us up on the third dayThis 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]])
187HOS62id69translate-numbers0two days … the third day“2 days … day 3” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])
188HOS63fc9r0Let us know YahwehHere “know” means not only to learn Gods character and laws, but also to become faithful to him.
189HOS63mk9bfigs-simile0His coming out is as sure as the dawnYahweh will come to help his people just as surely as the sun rises each morning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
190HOS64e5w60Connecting Statement:Yahweh is speaking.
191HOS64e69cfigs-rquestion0what 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]])
192HOS65n7z6figs-metaphor0So I have cut them to pieces by the prophetsThrough 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]])
193HOS65kr95figs-simile0Your decrees are like the light that shines outHere 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 Gods commandments allow people to know the truth, just as light makes objects visible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
194HOS65vv2v0Your decreesAlternate translation: “Yahwehs commands”
195HOS66r5ls0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
196HOS66vj1l0For I desire faithfulness and not sacrificeThis 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”
197HOS67xuu2figs-metonymy0Like AdamThis 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]])
198HOS68cwt20General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
199HOS68jyk1figs-metonymy0Gilead 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]])
200HOS69drp60the priests band together to commit murder on the way to ShechemWe 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.
201HOS610k4360General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
202HOS610tac2figs-metonymy0Ephraims prostitutionHere “prostitution” refers to Ephraims worship of false gods. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
203HOS610f2vh0Israel has become uncleanIsrael has become unacceptable to God because of her actions.
204HOS611c9zvfigs-activepassive0For you also, Judah, a harvest has been appointedIf 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]])
205HOS611nid7figs-metaphor0harvestHere “harvest” represents Gods final judgment on Israel and Judah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
206HOS611hag40fortunesprosperity and security
207HOS7introyc440# Hosea 7 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter continues using poetic forms to speak of Yahwehs 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><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.
208HOS71wc7w0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
209HOS71l8yqfigs-metaphor0I want to heal IsraelMaking 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]])
210HOS71u93nfigs-explicit0for they practice deceitThe people are selling and buying products dishonestly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
211HOS71u8xl0marauding bandThis is a group of people who are attacking other people without cause.
212HOS72t9avfigs-metaphor0their deeds surround themThe peoples 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]])
213HOS72h9mhfigs-synecdoche0they are before my faceHere 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]])
214HOS73aq6w0General 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.
215HOS74ccn2figs-metaphor0They are all adulterersThe 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]])
216HOS74q95bfigs-simile0like an oven heated by the bakerIf 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]])
217HOS74pvh60kneading of the doughThis is a part of the process of making bread.
218HOS75h9ht0On the day of our kingThis is perhaps a festival held by the king.
219HOS75zte7figs-idiom0He reached out with his handThis 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]])
220HOS76h4zw0General Information:The court officials plotting is described. Their anger is what motivates them to kill their king.
221HOS76wuv9figs-simile0For with hearts like an ovenThis means like a fire burns in an oven, these people have strong evil desires within them. The peoples desires are represented by their “hearts.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
222HOS76ml3ffigs-metaphor0Their anger smoldersThe 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]])
223HOS76ydy1figs-simile0it burns high like a flaming fireThe 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]])
224HOS77b2nnfigs-simile0They all are as hot as an ovenThis compares their anger to the heat that comes from an oven. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
225HOS77z8nyfigs-metaphor0they devour those who rule over themThis seems to mean that the court officials kill their kings. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
226HOS78a6qy0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
227HOS78lqx60Ephraim mixes himself among the peoplesThis is probably a reference to the efforts made by the northern kingdoms kings to ally themselves with other nations for protection against attack.
228HOS78q1jifigs-synecdoche0Ephraim is a flat cake that has not been turned overIf 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]])
229HOS79qt4kfigs-metonymy0Gray hairs are sprinkled on himHere “gray hairs” represent old age. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
230HOS79qta1figs-metaphor0but he does not know itHowever, 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]])
231HOS710i3230General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
232HOS710l7dgfigs-personification0The pride of Israel testifies against himThis 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]])
233HOS710d1v1figs-metaphor0nor have they sought himIsraels 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]])
234HOS710l1iz0in spite of all thisHere “this” refers God allowing foreigners to defeat them and make them weak.
235HOS711wu9bfigs-simile0Ephraim is like a dove, gullible and without senseDoves were thought to be foolish birds. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
236HOS711jpu50Egypt … AssyriaThese were powerful nations that Israel could ask for help.
237HOS712hur10General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
238HOS712jg68figs-metaphor0I will spread my net over themThis 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]])
239HOS712zeb8figs-simile0I will bring them down like the birds of the skyYahweh 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]])
240HOS712c4zg0in their flocking togetherThis expression extends the metaphor of the birds.
241HOS714uda30General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
242HOS714jwr20they wail on their bedsIt was usual for idol worshipers to eat ceremonial meals while reclining on couches or beds.
243HOS714wlv2figs-metaphor0they turn away from meHere 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]])
244HOS715kf6zfigs-metaphor0Though I trained them and strengthened their armsThis 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]])
245HOS716k39m0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
246HOS716r57afigs-simile0They are like a slack bowThat is, a bow that has no bowstring, or that has no tension. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
247HOS716q25qfigs-metonymy0because of the insolence of their tonguesHere “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]])
248HOS716r7ltfigs-abstractnouns0This will become their mockery in the land of EgyptIf 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]])
249HOS8introsj970# 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.
250HOS81iyy70General Information:Yahweh is speaking about the coming of the Assyrian army to attack the northern kingdom.
251HOS81rq62figs-metaphor0An eagle is coming over the house of YahwehThe 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]])
252HOS81tc1qfigs-metaphor0broken my covenantHere “broken” represents “disobeyed,” “violated.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
253HOS82hq2r0know youAlternate translation: “are faithful to you”
254HOS84hqd20General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
255HOS84h5agfigs-activepassive0but it was only so they might be cut offIf 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]])
256HOS85p53afigs-123person0Your calf has been rejectedThis 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]])
257HOS85xu7afigs-metonymy0Your calfThe 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]])
258HOS85k9n8figs-metaphor0My anger is burning against these peopleAnger 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]])
259HOS85xq3dfigs-rquestion0For 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]])
260HOS86y4fg0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
261HOS87hpc6figs-metaphor0For the people sow the wind and reap the whirlwindTo sow or plant the wind is to act in useless or destructive ways. To reap the whirlwind is to suffer disaster from ones own actions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
262HOS87ehs7figs-idiom0The standing grain has no headsHere “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, Israels actions will result in nothing good. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
263HOS87m4n5figs-metaphor0If it does come to maturity, foreigners will devour itIf any of Israels actions do happen to result in something good, Israels enemies will come and take it from them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
264HOS88vk5d0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
265HOS88qfd6figs-metaphor0Israel 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]])
266HOS89byr1figs-simile0like a wild donkey all alonePeople 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]])
267HOS89s8b5figs-metaphor0Ephraim has hired lovers for herselfEphraims 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]])
268HOS810inw90because of the oppression of the king of princesThat is, because the Assyrian king, also called “the Great King,” will make the people suffer.
269HOS811m4nc0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
270HOS812ww4cfigs-hypo0I could write down my law for them ten thousand times, but they wouldYahweh 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]])
271HOS812x66dtranslate-numbers0ten thousand“10,000” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
272HOS813gmz30General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
273HOS813fl3w0They will return to EgyptBecause of their sin, God will send his people away as slaves to the Egyptians.
274HOS9introlkm60# Hosea 9 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>The chapter is written in poetic form to speak of Yahwehs displeasure with Israels 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><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><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.
275HOS91fz5r0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
276HOS92f2gufigs-personification0But the threshing floor and the winepress will not feed themThis 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]])
277HOS92nt1h0the new wine will fail themThere will not be enough grape juice to make wine with.
278HOS93c8av0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
279HOS93sdu70Yahwehs landThis expression signals that Yahweh continues to view the land of Israel as his property, not the property of the Israelites.
280HOS93dgt9figs-metaphor0unclean foodThis 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]])
281HOS94ag4rfigs-simile0Their sacrifices will be to them like mourners foodHere “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 peoples sacrifices to be defiled and he will not accept them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
282HOS94yxx60For their food will be for themselves only; it will not come into the house of YahwehThe people of Israel will have food to eat, but Yahweh will not accept it as a sacrifice.
283HOS94n7e6figs-personification0it will not come into the house of YahwehThe 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]])
284HOS95nbi80General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
285HOS95i5uffigs-rquestion0What 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]])
286HOS95vze5figs-parallelism0the day of an appointed festival … the day of a festival for YahwehBoth of these mean the same thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
287HOS96x9gbfigs-123person0if they escapeHere “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]])
288HOS96n2rnfigs-metonymy0Egypt will gather them, and Memphis will bury themEgypt 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]])
289HOS96ymw7figs-metaphor0As for their treasures of silver—sharp briers will possess themBriers growing in the places where Israelites stored their silver is spoken of as if the briers were human enemies that would take the Israelites 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]])
290HOS96ks54figs-doublet0sharp briers will possess them, and thorns will fill their tentsHere “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]])
291HOS96huq9figs-metonymy0their tentsHere “tents” represents the Israelites homes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
292HOS97j1km0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
293HOS97g5sufigs-parallelism0The days for punishment are coming; the days for retribution are comingHosea 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]])
294HOS97k43ufigs-parallelism0The prophet is a fool, and the inspired man is insaneThese 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]])
295HOS97ns2qfigs-doublet0The prophet is a fool, and the inspired man is insaneHere “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]])
296HOS97dpe1figs-doublet0because of your great iniquity and great hostilityThe 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]])
297HOS98s6hc0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
298HOS98y37afigs-metaphor0The prophet is the watchman for my God over EphraimA “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]])
299HOS98s65p0The prophet is the watchman for my God over EphraimSome versions translate this passage as “The prophet with my God is the watchman over Ephraim.”
300HOS98zg9vfigs-genericnoun0The prophet isThis 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]])
301HOS98il1gfigs-synecdoche0EphraimHere “Ephraim” represents all the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
302HOS98f5r7figs-metaphor0a bird snare is on all of his pathsA “bird snare” is a trap used to catch a bird. This means the people of Israel do whatever they can to stop Gods 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]])
303HOS99s4cm0They 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.
304HOS910hd750General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
305HOS910rt260When I found IsraelThis refers to when Yahweh first started his relationship with the people of Israel by claiming them as his own special people.
306HOS910hf2afigs-parallelism0it was like finding grapes in the wilderness. Like the very first fruit of the season on the fig treeBoth 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]])
307HOS910d3sntranslate-names0Baal PeorThis 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]])
308HOS911hbj90General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
309HOS911p7n6figs-simile0their glory will fly away like a birdThe 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]])
310HOS912t5ypfigs-metaphor0when I turn away from themWhen 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]])
311HOS913vx3t0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
312HOS913us3gfigs-metaphor0I have seen Ephraim, just like Tyre, planted in a meadowThis 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]])
313HOS913bkh2figs-synecdoche0Ephraim … TyreHere “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]])
314HOS913n919figs-metonymy0but Ephraim will bring out his childrenThe 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]])
315HOS914m7l2figs-rquestion0Give them, Yahweh—what will you give them? Give themHosea 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]])
316HOS914hqc10a miscarrying wombTo “miscarry” means that a pregnancy ends too early and the baby dies. Hosea is asking that all the nations women be like that.
317HOS915jgc20General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
318HOS915c3jifigs-metonymy0I will drive them out of my houseYahweh 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]])
319HOS915z8j70their officialsthe men who serve the king
320HOS916iyy30General Information:Yahweh is speaking in verse 16. Hosea begins speaking in verse 17.
321HOS916i7bgfigs-metaphor0Ephraim is diseased, and their root is dried up; they bear no fruitYahweh 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]])
322HOS10introyd8u0# Hosea 10 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter is written in poetic form and continues the theme of Israels 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>Yahwehs relationship to his people was not based on his peoples 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]])
323HOS101px1g0General Information:Hosea is speaking about Israel.
324HOS101rq8zfigs-metaphor0Israel is a luxuriant vine that produces his fruitIsrael 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]])
325HOS101z9ge0a luxuriant vineThis vine produces more fruit than normal.
326HOS101b9ev0As his fruit increased … As his land produced moreBoth of these mean as the people prospered and grew stronger and richer.
327HOS102d7xdfigs-synecdoche0Their heart is deceitfulThe “heart” refers to the whole person, emphasizing their emotions and desires. Alternate translation: “They are deceitful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
328HOS102qaa1figs-metonymy0now they must bear their guiltHere “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]])
329HOS103wu2z0General Information:Hosea is speaking about Israel.
330HOS103c5c6figs-rquestion0and 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]])
331HOS104kw7efigs-idiom0They speak empty wordsHere “empty words” refers to lies. Alternate translation: “They speak lies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
332HOS104qxu4figs-metaphor0So justice springs up like poisonous weeds in the furrows of a fieldWhat 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]])
333HOS104pk52figs-simile0like poisonous weeds in the furrows of a fieldTheir lies and injustice spread throughout their nation and harm everyone like poisonous plants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
334HOS105yyw70General Information:Hosea is speaking about Israel.
335HOS105ete5translate-names0Beth AvenThis 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]])
336HOS106w5gufigs-activepassive0They will be carried to AssyriaIf 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]])
337HOS106lfq9figs-doublet0Ephraim will be disgraced, and Israel will be ashamed of its idolIf 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]])
338HOS106uvj40its idolMany versions interpret the Hebrew word in this passage as “advice,” “plans,” or “intentions.”
339HOS107a35sfigs-activepassive0Samarias king will be destroyedIf 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]])
340HOS107ci5dfigs-simile0like a chip of wood on the surface of the waterThis 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]])
341HOS108jvt8figs-activepassive0The high places of wickedness will be destroyedIf 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 Israels high places, where the people acted very wickedly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
342HOS108u7ppfigs-apostrophe0The 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]])
343HOS109qgp50General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
344HOS109v7l60days of GibeahThis 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).
345HOS109xx8qfigs-metaphor0there you have remainedThis 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]])
346HOS109b6a6figs-rquestion0Will 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]])
347HOS109k8hffigs-idiom0the sons of wrongHere “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]])
348HOS1010gmp60General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
349HOS1010uf9g0double iniquityThis refers to the many sins of Israel.
350HOS1011bf8zfigs-metaphor0Ephraim is a trained heifer that loves to threshA 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]])
351HOS1011n6vdfigs-metaphor0I will put a yoke on her fair neck. I will put a yoke on EphraimHere “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]])
352HOS1011cp1rfigs-metaphor0Judah will plow; Jacob will pull the harrow by himselfHere “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]])
353HOS1011g2e20harrowa tool used to smooth the land and cover the seeds after plowing
354HOS1012uye70General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
355HOS1012t19efigs-metaphor0Sow righteousness for yourselves, and reap the fruit of covenant faithfulnessRighteousness 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]])
356HOS1012fvl9figs-metaphor0Break up your unplowed groundWhen 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]])
357HOS1013q9asfigs-metaphor0You have plowed wickedness; you reaped injusticeWickedness and injustice are spoken of as if they were crops that could be sown and harvested. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
358HOS1013nsy5figs-metaphor0You have eaten the fruit of deceptionThe 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]])
359HOS1014yp1i0It will be as Shalman destroyed Beth Arbel on a day of battleThe coming war is being compared to a battle long ago.
360HOS1014fc5ftranslate-names0ShalmanThis 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]])
361HOS1014ist7translate-names0Beth ArbelThis is likely the name of a city of the tribe of Naphtali. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
362HOS1015wql9figs-metonymy0So it will happen to you, Bethel, because of your great wickednessHere “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]])
363HOS11introb7ac0# Hosea 11 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter continues using the poetic form to communicate about Yahwehs relationship to the northern kingdom of Israel.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br><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 Israels persistent rejection of him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
364HOS111h8vd0General Information:Yahweh is speaking of caring for Israel like a parent cares for a child.
365HOS111w4nmfigs-metaphor0When Israel was a young manYahweh 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]])
366HOS111y9f3figs-metaphor0I 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]])
367HOS112imw3figs-activepassive0The more they were called, the more they went away from meIf 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]])
368HOS113w3840General Information:Yahweh is speaking about how he cared for Israel.
369HOS113mgr5figs-metaphor0it was I who taught Ephraim to walkYahweh refers to Israel as a small child whom he taught to walk. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
370HOS113b3fi0lifted them up by their armsThis expression continues the metaphor. Alternate translation: “took care of them”
371HOS114wy1efigs-parallelism0I led them with cords of humanity, with bands of loveYahweh loved his people in ways that they as humans could understand and appreciate. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
372HOS114e1wefigs-simile0I was to them like someone who eased the yoke on their jawsYahweh is speaking of the nation of Israel as a hardworking animal whose work he made easier. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
373HOS114j7cs0I bent down to them and fed themThis expression continues the metaphor in which Israel is pictured as a young child. It may mean that Yahweh provided for all their physical needs.
374HOS115h9l80General Information:Yahweh is speaking about Israel.
375HOS115ng27figs-rquestion0Will 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]])
376HOS115lp4bfigs-rquestion0Will 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]])
377HOS116emy8figs-metonymy0The sword will fall on their citiesHere “sword” represents the enemies of Israel who will destroy Israels cities. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
378HOS116kgr1figs-metonymy0destroy the bars of their gatesGates offered security to city inhabitants from their enemies, and the bars secured the closed gates. To destroy the bars meant to take away the peoples security. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
379HOS117f2eefigs-123person0Though they call to the Most HighHere 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]])
380HOS117e7fv0no one will help themYahweh will not allow anyone to help Israel because they turned away from him.
381HOS118ubx20General Information:Yahweh is speaking about Israel.
382HOS118nmr7figs-rquestion0How 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]])
383HOS118nb87figs-rquestion0How 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]])
384HOS118s6u1figs-metonymy0My heart has changed within meHere “heart” represents Gods will and decisions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
385HOS119que50For I am God and not a manGod is not like people, who often decide very quickly to take revenge.
386HOS119xmy1figs-abstractnouns0I will not come in wrathIf 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]])
387HOS1110k7zh0General Information:Yahweh is speaking about when he will restore his people.
388HOS1110ge5vfigs-metaphor0They will follow YahwehWorshiping and honoring Yahweh is spoken of as if it were following him (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
389HOS1110ct2qfigs-simile0he will roar like a lionYahweh 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]])
390HOS1111b5jkfigs-simile0They will come trembling like a bird … like a doveThey will come home quickly as a bird returns to its nest. “Trembling” may refer to the fluttering of a birds wings. It may also signal the peoples feelings of humility and reverence for God (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
391HOS1111kmq40the 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).
392HOS1112i52h0General Information:Yahweh is talking about Israel and Judah.
393HOS1112mtk3figs-parallelism0Ephraim surrounds me with falsehood, and the house of Israel with deceitLies 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]])
394HOS1112csf5figs-metonymy0But Judah is still going about with meHere “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]])
395HOS12introz7s40# 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]])
396HOS121k8wj0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
397HOS121ec28figs-synecdoche0Ephraim feeds on the windHere “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]])
398HOS121g9zdfigs-metonymy0follows after the east windEast 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]])
399HOS121ij530carry olive oil to EgyptThe people of Israel sent olive oil as a present to the king of Egypt to try and persuade him to help them.
400HOS122evm4figs-metaphor0Yahweh also has a lawsuit against JudahYahweh 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]])
401HOS122j5y6figs-doublet0against Judah … punish Jacob for what he has done … repay him for his deedsHere “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]])
402HOS122w5u60lawsuitThis 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).
403HOS123dr1v0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking about Jacob the ancestor of the Israelites.
404HOS123v8bhfigs-explicit0In the womb Jacob grasped his brother by the heelJacob wanted to take his brothers place as the firstborn, so he tried to keep his brother from being born first. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
405HOS124s9n9figs-explicit0He struggled with the angel and wonJacob fought with an angel so that the angel would bless him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
406HOS125j2gg0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
407HOS125cy44figs-activepassive0is his name to be called onIf 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]])
408HOS126guk80Keep covenantal faithfulness and justiceThis refers to obeying Gods law and doing what is right.
409HOS127h5jj0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking about Israel.
410HOS127n12e0false scalesThe merchants use scales that do not accurately measure the weight of the money or products they are buying or selling.
411HOS127qvm90they love to defraudThe merchants cheat their customers by lying to them and taking more money than they should.
412HOS128bm7nfigs-parallelism0I have certainly become very rich; I have found wealth for myselfThese 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]])
413HOS128p9bbfigs-metaphor0I have found wealthBecoming wealthy by trading is spoken of as finding wealth. Alternate translation: “I have made much money” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
414HOS128p94jfigs-doublet0they will not find any iniquity in me, anything that would be sinThese 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]])
415HOS129p92t0General Information:Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel.
416HOS129a7dd0I am Yahweh your God from the land of EgyptThis 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”
417HOS129g5ykfigs-metonymy0I will again make you live in tentsThis 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]])
418HOS1210q6nifigs-synecdoche0By the hand of the prophetsHere “hand” represents the one who carries out an action. Alternate translation: “Through the prophets” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
419HOS1211kqj80General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
420HOS1211h73rfigs-simile0their altars will be like heaps of stone in the furrows of the fieldsThe altars where the people worshiped will be thrown down and become piles of stones. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
421HOS1212bxi40Jacob fled to the land of Aram; Israel worked in order to get a wifeHere “Jacob” and “Israel” refer to the same person. Jacobs name became Israel later in his life.
422HOS1213a79t0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
423HOS1213a8xe0by a prophetThat is, Moses.
424HOS1214v7cg0bitterlyThe anger that the people have caused in Yahweh is extremely great.
425HOS1214czc8figs-metonymy0So his Lord will leave his blood on himHere “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]])
426HOS1214ay94figs-metaphor0will turn back on him his disgraceThe 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]])
427HOS13introla1r0# Hosea 13 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter uses poetry to communicate Yahwehs 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]])
428HOS131u92j0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
429HOS131aw8sfigs-synecdoche0When Ephraim spokeHosea 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]])
430HOS131hyz3figs-explicit0there was tremblingIt 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]])
431HOS131lw4yfigs-metaphor0He exalted himself in IsraelHere “exalting” means to make oneself important. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
432HOS131nqg7figs-metaphor0but he became guilty because of Baal worship, and he diedWhen 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]])
433HOS132rtl50Now they sin more and moreHere “they” refers to the tribe of Ephraim and the entire nation of Israel, who followed Ephraims example.
434HOS132q78pfigs-explicit0These men who sacrifice kiss calvesPart of idol worship was kissing idol figures that were images of calves. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
435HOS133jbj2figs-simile0So they will be like the morning clouds … like the dew … like the chaff … like smoke out of a chimneyThese 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]])
436HOS133l2kjfigs-activepassive0that is driven by the wind awayIf 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]])
437HOS134k7l10General 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.
438HOS135gbf10I knew you in the wildernessYahweh claimed the Hebrew people as his own special people, and he took care of them there.
439HOS136nkz80When you had pasture, then you became fullThe image of sheep is continued with this expression.
440HOS136cq2pfigs-metaphor0your heart became lifted upBecoming arrogant is spoken of as ones heart being lifted up. Alternate translation: “you became proud” (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
441HOS137x7c50General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
442HOS137tq4bfigs-simile0like a lion … like a leopardThese 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]])
443HOS138y1e5figs-simile0as a bear … as a lion … as a wild beastThese 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]])
444HOS138ft6gfigs-ellipsis0as a bear that is robbed of her cubsThe 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]])
445HOS138bl6ffigs-ellipsis0as a lionThe 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]])
446HOS139jdv70General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
447HOS139k6kgfigs-rquestion0who 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]])
448HOS1310vd6rfigs-rquestion0Where 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]])
449HOS1312v1mf0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
450HOS1312d9c6figs-parallelism0Ephraims iniquity has been stored up; his guilt has been stored upThese two phrases are similar and mean basically the same thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
451HOS1312f96yfigs-metaphor0has been stored upThe northern kingdoms 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]])
452HOS1313ba82figs-metaphor0Pains of childbirth will come on himHere 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]])
453HOS1313b6hnfigs-metaphor0but he is an unwise son, for when it is time to be born, he does not come out of the wombYahweh 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]])
454HOS1314yv5m0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
455HOS1314q1qbfigs-rquestion0Will 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]])
456HOS1314iq7jfigs-personification0Where, 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]])
457HOS1314zq3tfigs-metaphor0Compassion is hidden from my eyesNot 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]])
458HOS1315w2sd0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
459HOS1315r777figs-metaphor0his brothersThis expression seems to stand for the nations around the northern kingdom, especially Judah, the southern kingdom. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
460HOS1315nj8nfigs-metaphor0an east wind will come; the wind of YahwehA 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]])
461HOS1315cy4jfigs-metaphor0Ephraims spring will dry up, and his well will have no waterHosea 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]])
462HOS1315g7klfigs-metaphor0his storehouseThis refers to all of the peoples possessions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
463HOS1316hb4l0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
464HOS1316y8fafigs-metonymy0Samaria will be guilty, for she has rebelled against her GodHere “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]])
465HOS1316g4vnfigs-euphemism0They will fallHere to “fall” represents dying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
466HOS1316w5hvfigs-metonymy0by the swordHere the “sword” represents the enemy soldiers who used swords in battle. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
467HOS1316kms6figs-activepassive0their young children will be dashed to pieces, and their pregnant women will be ripped openThese 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]])
468HOS14introbp7t0# 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 Gods 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><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.
469HOS141x5ih0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
470HOS141e3jefigs-metaphor0for you have fallen because of your iniquitySinning is spoken of here as if it were falling. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
471HOS142bl3bfigs-explicit0Take with you wordsThis probably means words of confession and praise. Alternate translation: “Confess your sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
472HOS142xcc8figs-metonymy0the fruit of our lipsWhat 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]])
473HOS143r5m50General Information:Hosea is speaking
474HOS143xvt4figs-synecdoche0to the work of our handsHere 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]])
475HOS143y9ak0the fatherless personThis expression stands perhaps for the entire nation. It indicates Gods enormous compassion for his people.
476HOS143mh3wfigs-abstractnouns0finds compassionHere 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]])
477HOS144j8i40General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
478HOS144x6kzfigs-metaphor0I will heal their turning awayStopping the people from turning away from God is spoken of as if he were healing them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
479HOS144e5ggfigs-metaphor0their turning awayThe 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]])
480HOS145akq8figs-simile0I will be like the dew to Israel; he will blossom like the lilyGod 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]])
481HOS145s2kmfigs-simile0take root like a cedar in LebanonThe 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]])
482HOS146pa2ffigs-simile0His branches will spread out … like the cedars in LebanonThis passage continues the same image. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
483HOS147ia8e0General Information:Yahweh is speaking.
484HOS147z3a1figs-metaphor0The people who live in his shade will returnThe 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]])
485HOS147e5fjfigs-simile0they will revive like grain and blossom like vinesIsraels new prosperity is spoken of in agricultural terms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
486HOS147h77bfigs-simile0His fame will be like the wine of LebanonJust as Lebanons 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]])
487HOS148as1ufigs-rquestion0what 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]])
488HOS148v7m9figs-simile0a cypress whose leaves are always greenA 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]])
489HOS148dja4figs-metaphor0from me comes your fruitHere “fruit” represents every good thing that comes from Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
490HOS149sr4g0General Information:Hosea the prophet is speaking.
491HOS149rmk6figs-rquestion0Who 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]])
492HOS149y4upfigs-metaphor0For the ways of Yahweh are right, and the righteous will walk in themYahwehs commandments are spoken of as ways to walk in. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
493HOS149ilu4figs-metaphor0stumbleDisobeying Yahweh is spoken of as if it were stumbling while walking. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])