Hosea 1:6

Gomer again conceived and gave birth to a daughter, and the LORD said to Hosea, "Name her Lo-ruhamah, for I will no longer have compassion on the house of Israel, that I should ever forgive them.

Study Bible

Gomer again conceived and gave birth to a daughter
The phrase "Gomer again conceived" indicates the continuation of Hosea's prophetic life, which is deeply intertwined with his family. Gomer, whose name means "completion" or "consumption," symbolizes the spiritual state of Israel. Her repeated conception signifies the ongoing cycle of Israel's unfaithfulness. The birth of a daughter, in this context, is significant as it represents a new phase in the prophetic message, emphasizing the nurturing aspect of God's relationship with His people, which is now being strained.

And the LORD said to Hosea
This phrase underscores the direct communication between God and His prophet, Hosea. The use of "the LORD" (YHWH) highlights the covenantal relationship God has with Israel. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty and His active role in guiding His people, even when delivering messages of judgment. Hosea's role as a prophet is to faithfully convey God's words, serving as a bridge between the divine and the human.

Name her Lo-ruhamah
The name "Lo-ruhamah" is deeply symbolic, meaning "not pitied" or "not loved." In Hebrew, "Lo" is a negation, and "ruhamah" comes from the root "racham," which means to have compassion or mercy. This name is a prophetic declaration of the withdrawal of God's mercy from Israel. It serves as a stark warning to the nation about the consequences of their persistent idolatry and unfaithfulness. The naming of Hosea's children is a powerful tool used by God to communicate His message to Israel.

for I will no longer have compassion on the house of Israel
This phrase reveals the gravity of Israel's situation. The "house of Israel" refers to the northern kingdom, which had turned away from God. The withdrawal of divine compassion is a serious pronouncement, indicating that the period of grace is coming to an end. Historically, this reflects the impending Assyrian conquest and exile. God's compassion is not infinite when met with continual rebellion, and this serves as a sobering reminder of the need for repentance and faithfulness.

that I should ever forgive them
The phrase "that I should ever forgive them" emphasizes the finality of God's judgment at this point in Israel's history. Forgiveness, in the biblical sense, involves a restoration of relationship, which Israel has repeatedly spurned. This does not imply that God's nature is unforgiving, but rather that Israel's persistent sin has led to a point where divine justice must be enacted. It is a call to recognize the seriousness of sin and the importance of returning to God before reaching such a point of no return. This serves as a powerful reminder of the balance between God's justice and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hosea
A prophet called by God to deliver His message to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. His life and marriage serve as a symbolic representation of God's relationship with Israel.

2. Gomer
Hosea's wife, whose unfaithfulness symbolizes Israel's unfaithfulness to God through idolatry and sin.

3. Lo-ruhamah
The daughter of Hosea and Gomer, whose name means "not loved" or "no mercy." Her name signifies God's impending judgment and withdrawal of compassion from Israel.

4. The House of Israel
Refers to the Northern Kingdom, which had turned away from God and was facing His judgment due to their persistent idolatry and sin.

5. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who communicates His message of judgment through Hosea.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Justice and Mercy
God's decision to withhold compassion from Israel is a response to their persistent sin and unfaithfulness. It serves as a reminder that God's mercy is not to be presumed upon without repentance.

The Consequences of Unfaithfulness
Just as Gomer's unfaithfulness had consequences, so does spiritual unfaithfulness. This passage calls believers to examine their own lives for areas of unfaithfulness to God.

The Hope of Restoration
While this verse speaks of judgment, the broader account of Hosea includes themes of restoration and hope, pointing to God's ultimate desire for reconciliation with His people.

Names as Prophetic Symbols
The naming of Lo-ruhamah serves as a prophetic act, illustrating how God uses tangible symbols to communicate spiritual truths.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the name "Lo-ruhamah" reflect God's message to Israel, and what does it teach us about the consequences of persistent sin?

2. In what ways does the relationship between Hosea and Gomer mirror God's relationship with Israel, and how can this understanding impact our view of God's faithfulness?

3. How can we reconcile the image of God as compassionate and forgiving with His decision to withhold compassion from Israel in this passage?

4. What are some modern-day "idols" or areas of unfaithfulness that might lead to a similar withdrawal of God's favor in our lives?

5. How does the broader account of Hosea, including themes of restoration, encourage us to seek repentance and reconciliation with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:6-7
Highlights God's nature as compassionate and gracious, yet also just, which provides context for understanding His decision to withhold compassion from Israel.

Isaiah 1:18-20
Offers a contrast with God's willingness to forgive and restore those who repent, emphasizing the importance of repentance in receiving God's mercy.

Romans 9:25-26
Paul references Hosea to illustrate God's sovereign choice in extending mercy, showing that God's plans include both judgment and restoration.