Hosea 11:1-11

The LORD Loves Israel

1 The LORD continues, "When Israel was a young nation, I loved them. I chose to bring my son out of Egypt.

2 But the more I called out to Israel, the further they went away from me. They brought sacrifices to the statues of the gods that were named after Baal. And they burned incense to them.

3 I taught Israel to walk. I took them up in my arms. But they did not realize I was the one who took care of them.

4 I led them with kindness and love. I did not lead them with ropes. I lifted the heavy loads from their shoulders. I bent down and fed them.

5 "But they refuse to turn away from their sins. So they will return to Egypt. And Assyria will rule over them.

6 Swords will flash in their cities. The heavy metal bars on their gates will be destroyed. Their plans will come to an end.

7 My people have made up their minds to turn away from me. Even if they call out to me, I will certainly not honor them. I am the Most High God."

8 The LORD continues, "People of Ephraim, how can I give you up? Israel, how can I hand you over to your enemies? Can I destroy you as I did the town of Admah? Can I treat you like Zeboiim? My heart is stirred inside me. It is filled with pity for you.

9 My anger will not burn against you anymore. I will not completely destroy you. After all, I am God. I am not a mere man. I am the Holy One among you. My burning anger will not come against you.

10 I will roar like a lion against my enemies. You will follow me. When I roar, my children will come home trembling with fear. You will return from the west.

11 You will come trembling like birds from Egypt. You will return like doves from Assyria. I will settle you again in your homes," announces the Lord.

Hosea 11:1-11 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO HOSEA 11

This chapter gives an account of the free and ancient love of God to Israel, and of the benefits and blessings of goodness he bestowed upon them; and of their ingratitude in not owning them, nor hearkening to his prophets, but sacrificing and burning incense to idols, Ho 11:1-4; wherefore they are threatened with disappointment of relief from Egypt, with captivity into Assyria, and with the ravages of the sword in all places, being a people bent to backsliding, and incorrigible, Ho 11:5-7; and yet, notwithstanding all this, the bowels of the Lord yearn after them, and promises of mercy are made to them; that they shall not utterly be destroyed, but a remnant shall be spared; which in the latter day shall be called and follow after the Lord, the King Messiah, and be returned from their captivity, and be resettled in their own land, and replaced in their own houses, Ho 11:8-11; the chapter is concluded with an honourable character of Judah, Ho 11:12.