◄ Hosea 6 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Unrepentance of Israel and Judah 1Come, let us return to the LORD. For He has torn us to pieces, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bind up our wounds. 2After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up, that we may live in His presence. 3So let us know— let us press on to know the LORD. As surely as the sun rises, He will appear; He will come to us like the rain, like the spring showers that water the earth. 4What shall I do with you, O Ephraima? What shall I do with you, O Judah? For your loyalty is like a morning mist, like the early dew that vanishes. 5Therefore I have hewn them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of My mouth, and My judgments go forth like lightning. 6For I desire mercy, not sacrifice,b and the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings. 7But they, like Adam, have transgressedc the covenant; there they were unfaithful to Me. 8Gilead is a city of evildoers, tracked with footprints of blood. 9Like raiders who lie in ambush, so does a band of priests; they murder on the way to Shechem; surely they have committed atrocities. 10In the house of Israel I have seen a horrible thing: Ephraim practices prostitution there, and Israel is defiled. 11Also for you, O Judah, a harvest is appointed, when I restore My people from captivity.d Footnotes: 4 a That is, the northern kingdom of Israel; also in verse 10 6 b Cited in Matthew 9:13 and Matthew 12:7 7 c Or As at Adam, they have transgressed 11 d Or restore the fortunes of My people Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Hosea 6 Summary The Unrepentance of Israel and Judah Verses 1–3 – Call to Return and Promise of Restoration Israel voices a corporate resolve: “Come, let us return to the LORD.” They acknowledge God’s wounding discipline yet trust His healing. The hope rises to a climax with “He will revive us after two days; on the third day He will raise us up, that we may live in His presence.” The people anticipate renewed covenant intimacy, picturing God’s restoration as certain and refreshing as the dawn and spring rains. Verses 4–6 – God’s Grieved Love and the Priority of Mercy The Lord replies with heartache: Israel’s and Judah’s affection “is like the morning mist.” Though their rituals multiply, He wants “steadfast love, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.” Superficial devotion cannot mask faithlessness. Verses 7–11 – Covenant Breaches and Imminent Harvest Like Adam, they transgress the covenant. Violence stains Gilead; priests ambush like bandits. Ephraim is defiled, Judah is warned, and a “harvest is appointed” for judgment and eventual restoration. In Hosea 6, the prophet Hosea continues his message from God to the Israelites, calling them to repent and return to their God. This chapter emphasizes the importance of sincere love and knowledge of God over mere rituals and sacrifices. As Hosea relays God's desire for steadfast love and knowledge of Him, the fleetingness of Israel's devotion and their insincere worship are brought into sharp focus. Historical Setting • Hosea prophesies in the eighth century BC, during the final decades of the Northern Kingdom. • Jeroboam II’s prosperity bred moral decay; after him, coups and foreign alliances weakened the nation (2 Kings 14-17). • Assyria’s looming power made repentance urgent, yet leadership trusted in diplomacy and ritual instead of the LORD. Literary Context within Hosea Chapters 4-10 contain courtroom accusations. Chapter 6 sits at the center, contrasting the people’s shallow words (6:1-3) with God’s exposing verdict (6:4-11). The tension between hope and indictment threads the entire book. Key Themes 1. Steadfast love over ritual (6:6). See 1 Samuel 15:22; Isaiah 1:11-17; Micah 6:6-8. 2. True knowledge of God—relational, not merely factual (Jeremiah 9:23-24). 3. Discipline that heals (Hebrews 12:6) and foreshadows resurrection hope. Word Studies • “Return” (shub) implies wholehearted turnaround, not momentary regret. • “Steadfast love” (hesed) means loyal covenant kindness. Its fleeting absence grieves God (6:4). • “Know” (yada) signals experiential relationship, paralleling Genesis 4:1. Archaeological Insights • Excavations at Dan and Bethel reveal cultic altars where golden calves once stood (1 Kings 12). Hosea’s audience likely visited these sites. • Gilead, described as “full of evildoers” (6:8), lay on key trade routes; tablets from the region record violence by caravan raiders. • Assyrian annals from Tiglath-Pileser III mention tribute from “mighty Omri-land,” underscoring the political pressure behind Israel’s compromises. Connections to Other Scriptures • Hosea 6:2’s “third day” language prefigures Christ’s resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:4; Luke 24:46). • Jesus quotes Hosea 6:6 twice (Matthew 9:13; 12:7) to defend mercy over ritualism. • Paul echoes the theme of empty formality in Titus 1:16—claiming to know God while denying Him by works. Outline and Flow 1. 6:1-3 – People’s appeal. 2. 6:4-6 – Divine lament. 3. 6:7-9 – Specific crimes. 4. 6:10-11 – God’s verdict and future harvest. Practical Application • Rituals, attendance, and offerings cannot substitute for loyal love and genuine relationship with God. • God’s wounds aim to restore, not destroy; believers can trust His discipline. • National and personal revival begins with honest confession, not public displays. Comparative Prophets • Isaiah 1 accuses Judah of “trampling His courts.” • Amos 5:21-24, a northern contemporary, condemns music and sacrifices devoid of justice. • Micah 6 ties ethical living to acceptable worship. Chronological Note Hosea 6 likely falls between 734-732 BC, around the Syro-Ephraimite crisis, a period marked by frantic alliances with Assyria and Egypt (5:13). Textual Notes • Some manuscripts read “Adam” (6:7) as a place near the Jordan (Joshua 3:16); context favors the personal name, underscoring humanity’s repeated covenant failures. • “Harvest” (6:11) can mean both reaping judgment and gathering the remnant, reflecting dual outcomes. Christ-Centered Perspective The chapter’s plea, “He will raise us up on the third day,” echoes through the empty tomb. Jesus fulfills the steadfast love Israel lacked and grants the intimate knowledge of God Hosea envisioned (John 17:3). Summary Truth God longs for loyal hearts, not hollow rituals. When His people turn back, even after tearing discipline, He is ready to heal, revive, and restore. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise. This verse complements Hosea 6:6, emphasizing the value of genuine repentance. Matthew 9:13 Jesus quotes Hosea 6:6, saying, But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners. This connection highlights the continuity of God's message through the Old and New Testaments. James 4:8 Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. This verse echoes the call to return to God with sincerity. Teaching Points Call to Repentance Hosea 6:1 begins with an earnest call to return to the Lord: Come, let us return to the LORD. For He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bind up our wounds. This verse highlights the dual nature of God's discipline and His healing. Promise of Restoration In verse 2, the promise of restoration is emphasized: After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up, that we may live in His presence. This foreshadows the resurrection and the hope of new life in Christ. Desire for Steadfast Love Verse 6 reveals God's desire for steadfast love over sacrifice: For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings. This underscores the importance of a heartfelt relationship with God over mere religious rituals. Human Inconstancy The chapter also addresses the fleeting nature of human devotion in verse 4: Your loyalty is like a morning mist, like the early dew that vanishes. This serves as a warning against superficial faith. Practical Applications Embrace True Repentance Reflect on areas in your life where you need to return to God with sincerity. Seek His healing and restoration. Prioritize Relationship Over Ritual Evaluate your spiritual practices to ensure they are driven by love and knowledge of God, rather than mere obligation. Cultivate Steadfast Love Strive to develop a consistent and enduring love for God and others, reflecting His character in your daily life. Seek God's Presence Make it a priority to live in the presence of God, drawing strength and guidance from Him. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure in Hosea 6, the LORD is depicted as the one who both disciplines and heals. The chapter begins with a call to return to the LORD, emphasizing His power to restore and revive. The Hebrew root for LORD is "YHWH," which signifies the covenantal name of God, highlighting His eternal and unchanging nature. Hosea 6:1-3 speaks of the LORD's ability to heal and bind up wounds, reflecting His mercy and desire for a restored relationship with His people. 2. The People of Israel The collective group addressed in this chapter, the people of Israel are called to repentance and renewal of their covenant with God. They are depicted as having a transient loyalty, described metaphorically as "a morning mist" or "early dew" that disappears (Hosea 6:4). The Hebrew term for Israel is "Yisra'el," which can mean "God contends" or "one who struggles with God," reflecting their historical and spiritual journey. 3. Ephraim Representing the northern kingdom of Israel, Ephraim is specifically mentioned in Hosea 6:4 and 6:10. Ephraim's faithfulness is fleeting, and they are criticized for their iniquity and unfaithfulness. The name Ephraim in Hebrew, "Ephrayim," means "fruitful," yet in this context, it highlights the irony of their spiritual barrenness. 4. Judah The southern kingdom, Judah, is also mentioned in Hosea 6:4 and 6:11. While the focus is primarily on Israel, Judah is included in the call to repentance and is warned of impending judgment. The Hebrew name "Yehudah" means "praised," yet the text suggests that Judah, like Israel, has fallen short of living up to its name. Places 1. Israel The primary audience of Hosea's message. The nation is called to repentance and to return to the Lord. In the Hebrew context, "Israel" refers to the northern kingdom, which was often criticized by the prophets for its unfaithfulness to God. 2. Judah Although not explicitly mentioned in Hosea 6, Judah is often addressed in the book of Hosea as a neighboring kingdom to Israel. The call to repentance and the themes of faithfulness apply to Judah as well. 3. Samaria As the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel, Samaria is a significant location in the context of Hosea's prophecies. It represents the political and spiritual center of Israel, which had turned away from God. 4. Jerusalem While not directly mentioned in Hosea 6, Jerusalem is the capital of Judah and the location of the temple, symbolizing the religious heart of the southern kingdom. The call for genuine worship and mercy over sacrifice would resonate with the practices centered in Jerusalem. Events 1. Call to Return to the Lord The chapter begins with a call for the people to return to the Lord: "Come, let us return to the LORD. For He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bind up our wounds." (Hosea 6:1). The Hebrew root for "return" is שׁוּב (shuv), which implies repentance and turning back to God. 2. Promise of Restoration The text promises that after a period of affliction, God will restore and revive His people: "After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up, that we may live in His presence." (Hosea 6:2). The use of "revive" (חָיָה, chayah) and "raise" (קוּם, qum) suggests a renewal of life and standing before God. 3. Encouragement to Know the Lord There is an encouragement to pursue the knowledge of the Lord: "So let us know—let us press on to know the LORD. As surely as the sun rises, He will appear; He will come to us like the rain, like the spring showers that water the earth." (Hosea 6:3). The Hebrew word for "know" is יָדַע (yada), indicating an intimate and experiential knowledge. 4. God's Rebuke of Israel and Judah God expresses His disappointment with the faithfulness of Israel and Judah: "What shall I do with you, O Ephraim? What shall I do with you, O Judah? Your loyalty is like a morning mist, like the early dew that vanishes." (Hosea 6:4). The term "loyalty" (חֶסֶד, chesed) refers to steadfast love or covenant faithfulness, which is lacking. 5. God's Desire for Mercy, Not Sacrifice The Lord declares His preference for mercy over ritual sacrifice: "For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings." (Hosea 6:6). The Hebrew word for "mercy" is חֶסֶד (chesed), emphasizing loving-kindness and covenantal loyalty. 6. Transgression and Covenant Breaking The chapter concludes with a recounting of Israel's transgressions and breaking of the covenant: "But they, like Adam, have transgressed the covenant; there they were unfaithful to Me." (Hosea 6:7). The reference to "Adam" (אָדָם, adam) suggests a parallel to the original sin and breach of covenant. Lessons from Hosea 6 1. The Call to Return to the Lord Hosea 6:1 invites us with urgency: "Come, let us return to the LORD." This is a powerful reminder that no matter how far we stray, God is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. Our daily lives can often distract us, but this verse encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God, making it the cornerstone of our existence. Returning to Him is not just a one-time event but a continual journey of faith and repentance. 2. Healing and Restoration Await The promise of healing is beautifully captured in Hosea 6:1, "For He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bind up our wounds." This verse reassures us that God’s discipline is not meant to harm but to heal. In our daily struggles, we can find comfort in knowing that God’s ultimate plan is to restore us, making us whole and complete in Him. 3. The Power of Resurrection Hosea 6:2 speaks of revival: "After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up, that we may live in His presence." This foreshadows the resurrection of Christ, reminding us of the power of new life. Just as Christ was raised, we too are called to live a resurrected life, full of hope and purpose, reflecting His glory in all we do. 4. Pursue Knowledge of the Lord In Hosea 6:3, we are encouraged to "press on to know the LORD." This pursuit is not passive but active, requiring dedication and effort. In our busy lives, setting aside time for prayer, study, and reflection is crucial. By doing so, we deepen our understanding of God’s character and His will for our lives, allowing us to walk more closely with Him. 5. God’s Faithfulness is Like the Dawn Hosea 6:3 also compares God’s faithfulness to the dawn: "As surely as the sun rises, He will appear." This imagery reminds us of the certainty and consistency of God’s presence in our lives. Just as the sun rises each day, God’s love and faithfulness are unwavering, providing us with a firm foundation on which to build our lives. 6. The Importance of Steadfast Love Hosea 6:6 emphasizes, "For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings." This teaches us that God values our love and compassion over ritualistic practices. Our daily actions should reflect His love, showing kindness and mercy to others, which is the true essence of living a Christ-centered life. 7. Beware of Superficial Worship The warning in Hosea 6:4 about fleeting devotion—"Your love is like the morning mist, like the early dew that vanishes"—serves as a caution against superficial worship. Our faith should be deep-rooted and genuine, not just a temporary display. By cultivating a sincere relationship with God, we ensure that our worship is meaningful and lasting. 8. Acknowledge Our Shortcomings Hosea 6:7 highlights the betrayal of God’s covenant: "But they, like Adam, have transgressed the covenant; there they were unfaithful to Me." Recognizing our own shortcomings is the first step toward repentance and growth. By acknowledging where we fall short, we open ourselves to God’s transformative power, allowing Him to guide us back to His path. 9. The Consequences of Unfaithfulness The chapter warns of the consequences of turning away from God. This serves as a reminder that our choices have repercussions. By staying faithful and obedient, we align ourselves with God’s will, avoiding the pitfalls that come from straying from His guidance. 10. God’s Desire for a Relationship Ultimately, Hosea 6 reveals God’s deep desire for a genuine relationship with His people. He longs for us to know Him intimately and to walk in His ways. This chapter encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else, ensuring that our lives reflect His love and truth in every aspect. Topics 1. Call to Repentance (Hosea 6:1-3) This section begins with a call for the Israelites to return to the Lord. The passage emphasizes God's ability to heal and restore, as seen in the plea, "Come, let us return to the LORD. For He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bind up our wounds" (Hosea 6:1). The Hebrew word for "return" (שׁוּב, shuv) implies a turning back or repentance, highlighting the need for a heartfelt return to God. 2. God's Desire for Mercy, Not Sacrifice (Hosea 6:4-6) Here, God expresses His disappointment with Israel's fleeting loyalty, comparing it to "a morning mist" (Hosea 6:4). The Lord desires "mercy, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings" (Hosea 6:6). The Hebrew word for "mercy" (חֶסֶד, chesed) conveys steadfast love and faithfulness, indicating that God values genuine devotion over ritualistic practices. 3. Israel's Transgression and Unfaithfulness (Hosea 6:7-11) The chapter concludes with a recounting of Israel's covenant breach, likening their actions to those of Adam: "But they, like Adam, have transgressed the covenant; there they were unfaithful to Me" (Hosea 6:7). The Hebrew term for "transgressed" (עָבַר, avar) suggests a deliberate crossing of boundaries, underscoring the gravity of Israel's unfaithfulness. The passage continues to describe the violence and corruption prevalent in Gilead and among the priests, culminating in a warning of impending judgment. Themes 1. Call to Repentance Hosea 6:1 begins with an invitation to return to the Lord: "Come, let us return to the LORD." This theme emphasizes the need for repentance and turning back to God. The Hebrew word for "return" (שׁוּב, shuv) implies a complete turning away from sin and a movement towards God. 2. God's Healing and Restoration The passage continues in Hosea 6:1-2 with the promise of healing and restoration: "For He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bind up our wounds." This theme highlights God's role as a healer and restorer, indicating that His discipline is meant to bring about spiritual renewal. 3. The Certainty of God's Revival Hosea 6:2 states, "After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up, that we may live in His presence." This theme underscores the assurance of revival and resurrection, pointing to God's power to bring new life. The reference to "the third day" has been seen by some as a foreshadowing of Christ's resurrection. 4. The Importance of Knowing God In Hosea 6:3, the text urges, "Let us know, let us strive to know the LORD." This theme stresses the importance of pursuing a deep and intimate knowledge of God. The Hebrew word for "know" (יָדַע, yada) implies an experiential and relational understanding, not just intellectual awareness. 5. God's Desire for Mercy over Sacrifice Hosea 6:6 declares, "For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings." This theme highlights God's preference for genuine love and mercy over ritualistic religious practices. It reflects the Hebrew concept of "chesed" (חֶסֶד), which denotes steadfast love and kindness. 6. The Unfaithfulness of Israel The chapter also addresses Israel's unfaithfulness in Hosea 6:4: "What shall I do with you, O Ephraim? What shall I do with you, O Judah?" This theme points to the inconsistency and fleeting nature of Israel's devotion, likened to "a morning cloud" or "early dew" that disappears. 7. The Role of Prophets in God's Judgment Hosea 6:5 mentions, "Therefore I have hewn them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of My mouth." This theme emphasizes the role of prophets as instruments of God's judgment and the power of God's word to convict and correct His people. Prayer Points Repentance and Healing Pray for a heart of true repentance and for God's healing in areas of brokenness. Genuine Relationship Ask God to deepen your relationship with Him, moving beyond rituals to a heartfelt connection. Steadfast Love Pray for the strength to cultivate a consistent and enduring love for God and others. Presence of God Seek God's presence in your daily life, asking for His guidance and strength. As we study Hosea 6, let us be reminded of God's unwavering love and His call for us to return to Him with sincere hearts. May we strive to know Him more deeply and reflect His love in all we do. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Hosea 6:2, how can the “two days” and “third day” revival be taken literally if no historical or scientific evidence supports such a resurrection-like event? 2. In Hosea 6:1, how does a benevolent God justify first “tearing” His people only to heal them, and isn’t this contradictory? 3. In Hosea 6:6, is placing mercy over sacrifice inconsistent with other Old Testament passages that emphasize animal offerings? 4. In Hosea 6:7, is the reference to “Adam” a historical anachronism, and can it be confirmed or disproven archeologically? 5. Does the broader historical and archeological record support Hosea 6’s depiction of Israel’s quick rebellion and restoration, or does it lack evidence? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Hosea 6:1-3 illustrate the concept of repentance and hope in God's mercy? 2. What does the comparison of Israel's love to the morning mist and early dew in verses 4-7 tell you about their devotion to God? 3. Why does God prefer steadfast love and knowledge of Him over sacrifices? 4. How can the lessons in Hosea 6 be applied to modern day forms of worship? Do you think people still fall into the trap of empty ritualism? 5. In what ways can you cultivate a more sincere and consistent relationship with God? 6. How do the messages in Hosea 6 align with other scriptures you've read about repentance and God's mercy? 7. How does Hosea's message about God's desire for love and knowledge over sacrifices challenge your current understanding of worship? 8. How can you personally respond to God's call for steadfast love and knowledge of Him? 9. Why do you think Israel struggled to maintain sincere love for God, despite His repeated calls for them to return to Him? 10. What lessons can we learn from Israel's failures, as recorded in Hosea 6, to prevent similar failings in our own lives? 11. How do verses 8-11 show God's mercy despite His judgement? 12. How does the message of Hosea 6 help you understand the nature of God's love and judgement? 13. In what ways does the message of Hosea 6 challenge you to reflect on your own spiritual life? 14. How can you ensure that your actions reflect a true knowledge of God? 15. In what ways can we as a community encourage each other to pursue genuine devotion to God over empty rituals? 16. How does God's promise of a harvest for the righteous inspire you? 17. How can we help others understand God's desire for love and knowledge over sacrifices? 18. What steps can we take to avoid the pitfalls of insincere worship that Hosea warns against in this chapter? 19. In your personal life, how can you embody the principle of returning to God and acknowledging His power to heal and restore? 20. How can the lessons from Hosea 6 influence the way we approach modern issues of faith and devotion? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions