Hosea 3:3

Then I said to her, "You must live with me for many days; you must not be promiscuous or belong to another, and I will do the same for you."

Study Bible

Then I said to her
This phrase introduces a direct communication from Hosea to his wife, Gomer. The Hebrew word for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which often implies not just speaking but conveying a message with authority or intention. In the context of Hosea, a prophet, this communication is not merely personal but carries a divine directive. Hosea's role as a prophet means his actions and words are symbolic of God's relationship with Israel. This phrase sets the stage for a message of reconciliation and commitment.

You must live with me many days
The phrase "live with me" in Hebrew is "תֵּשְׁבִי עִמִּי" (teshvi immi), which suggests dwelling or abiding together. This is not a temporary arrangement but a call for a sustained, committed relationship. The "many days" indicates a significant period, symbolizing a time of restoration and faithfulness. Historically, this reflects the period of Israel's purification and return to God after a time of unfaithfulness. It is a call to stability and enduring presence, mirroring God's desire for Israel to remain faithful to Him.

you must not be promiscuous
The Hebrew word for "promiscuous" is "תִּזְנִי" (tizni), derived from "זָנָה" (zanah), meaning to commit fornication or idolatry. This command is both literal and metaphorical, addressing Gomer's past infidelity and Israel's spiritual adultery through idolatry. The prohibition against promiscuity is a call to purity and exclusivity in the covenant relationship, reflecting God's demand for Israel's undivided loyalty and worship.

or belong to any other man
This phrase emphasizes exclusivity in the relationship. The Hebrew "לְאִישׁ אַחֵר" (le'ish acher) translates to "to another man," underscoring the idea of not forming alliances or relationships outside the covenant. Historically, Israel often turned to other nations and gods, betraying their covenant with Yahweh. This command is a reminder of the first commandment, to have no other gods, and it calls for a return to monotheistic worship and reliance on God alone.

And I will live with you
The promise "I will live with you" is a commitment from Hosea, symbolizing God's unwavering faithfulness to Israel. The Hebrew "אֵשֵׁב אֹתָךְ" (eshev otach) implies a mutual dwelling, a restoration of the relationship. This reflects the covenantal promise where God pledges His presence and faithfulness to His people. It is a reassurance of God's grace and mercy, highlighting that despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains committed to His covenant and desires reconciliation and intimacy with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hosea
A prophet in the Northern Kingdom of Israel, called by God to marry a promiscuous woman as a symbol of God's relationship with Israel.

2. Gomer
Hosea's wife, representing Israel's unfaithfulness to God through idolatry and alliances with other nations.

3. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, often unfaithful to God, symbolized by Gomer's actions.

4. God's Covenant
The underlying theme of Hosea's marriage, representing God's enduring commitment to His people despite their unfaithfulness.

5. Restoration
The event of Hosea taking Gomer back, symbolizing God's willingness to restore Israel.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Relationships
Hosea's command to Gomer to live with him and not be promiscuous highlights the importance of faithfulness in marriage, reflecting God's desire for a faithful relationship with His people.

God's Unfailing Love
Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains committed to His covenant, just as Hosea remains committed to Gomer. This teaches us about the depth of God's love and His willingness to restore us.

Repentance and Restoration
Hosea's actions symbolize the process of repentance and restoration. Just as Gomer is called to return and live faithfully, we are called to turn from sin and return to God.

Symbolism of Marriage
The marriage between Hosea and Gomer serves as a powerful symbol of God's relationship with His people, emphasizing the sacredness and covenantal nature of marriage.

Living a Set-Apart Life
Hosea's instruction to Gomer to not belong to any other man is a call for believers to live a life set apart for God, avoiding spiritual adultery through idolatry or sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hosea's relationship with Gomer reflect God's relationship with Israel, and what does this teach us about God's character?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of faithfulness in Hosea 3:3 to our own relationships, both with God and with others?

3. How does the theme of restoration in Hosea 3:3 encourage us in our personal walk with God, especially when we have strayed?

4. What parallels can we draw between Hosea's actions towards Gomer and Christ's love for the church as described in Ephesians 5:25-27?

5. How can we live a life that is set apart for God, avoiding spiritual adultery, in light of Hosea's command to Gomer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:24
The concept of marital faithfulness and unity, which Hosea's relationship with Gomer is meant to reflect.

Jeremiah 3:14
God's call to Israel to return to Him, similar to Hosea's call for Gomer to remain faithful.

Ephesians 5:25-27
The parallel of Christ's love for the church, as Hosea's love for Gomer reflects God's love for Israel.

Matthew 9:13
Jesus' emphasis on mercy over sacrifice, echoing the theme of Hosea's merciful actions towards Gomer.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20
The call for believers to honor God with their bodies, paralleling Hosea's call for Gomer to remain faithful.