Hosea 3:2

So I bought her for fifteen shekels of silver and a homer and a lethech of barley.

Study Bible

So I bought her
This phrase indicates a transaction, reflecting the cultural and historical practice of purchasing a slave or redeeming someone from bondage. In the context of Hosea, this act symbolizes God's redemption of Israel despite their unfaithfulness. The act of buying back Gomer, Hosea's wife, is a vivid illustration of God's love and commitment to His covenant people, even when they stray. This mirrors the redemptive work of Christ, who "bought" humanity with His sacrifice (1 Corinthians 6:20).

for fifteen shekels of silver
The price of fifteen shekels of silver is significant as it represents half the typical price of a slave, which was thirty shekels (Exodus 21:32). This may suggest Gomer's diminished value due to her unfaithfulness, yet Hosea's willingness to pay this price underscores the depth of his love and commitment. This can be seen as a type of Christ's redemptive work, where He paid the ultimate price for humanity's redemption, regardless of their worthiness.

and a homer and a lethech of barley
The inclusion of barley, a less expensive grain, alongside the silver, indicates a mixed form of payment. Barley was often considered the food of the poor, highlighting the humble circumstances of the transaction. This reflects the humility of Christ, who came not with earthly wealth but with spiritual riches. The combination of silver and barley may also symbolize the completeness of the redemption, as both monetary and sustenance needs are met. This act of redemption is a precursor to the ultimate redemption through Jesus, who provides both spiritual and physical sustenance (John 6:35).

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Gomer
Hosea's wife, who is unfaithful to him. Her actions symbolize Israel's unfaithfulness to God through idolatry and sin.

3. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, often depicted as unfaithful to God, similar to Gomer's unfaithfulness to Hosea.

4. Fifteen shekels of silver and a homer and a lethek of barley
The price Hosea paid to redeem Gomer, symbolizing the cost of redemption and God's willingness to restore Israel despite their unfaithfulness.

5. Redemption
The act of buying back or restoring, which is central to the account of Hosea and Gomer, and reflects God's redemptive plan for His people.

Teaching Points

Understanding Redemption
Hosea's purchase of Gomer illustrates the concept of redemption. Just as Hosea redeemed Gomer, God redeems us through Christ. Reflect on the cost of redemption and God's love for us.

Faithfulness in Relationships
Hosea's commitment to Gomer despite her unfaithfulness challenges us to consider our own relationships. Are we willing to forgive and restore those who have wronged us?

God's Unfailing Love
The account of Hosea and Gomer is a powerful reminder of God's unwavering love for His people. Even when we stray, God seeks to restore us.

The Cost of Sin
Gomer's situation reflects the consequences of sin and unfaithfulness. Consider how sin affects our relationship with God and others, and the steps needed for restoration.

Living as Redeemed People
As those who have been bought with a price, we are called to live lives that reflect our redemption. How does this truth impact our daily actions and decisions?

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the act of Hosea buying Gomer teach us about the nature of God's love and redemption?

2. How can Hosea's faithfulness to Gomer inspire us in our personal relationships, especially when faced with betrayal or unfaithfulness?

3. In what ways does the price Hosea paid for Gomer reflect the cost of our own redemption through Christ?

4. How does the account of Hosea and Gomer challenge us to examine our own faithfulness to God?

5. What practical steps can we take to live as people who have been redeemed, and how can this influence our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:32
Discusses the value of a slave, providing context for the price Hosea paid for Gomer, highlighting the theme of redemption.

Leviticus 27:16
Offers insight into the valuation of land and produce, which can be related to the barley mentioned in Hosea 3:2, emphasizing the sacrificial nature of Hosea's act.

1 Corinthians 6:20
Speaks of believers being bought with a price, drawing a parallel to the redemption theme in Hosea.

Isaiah 54:5-8
Describes God's enduring love for Israel, similar to Hosea's love for Gomer, despite their unfaithfulness.