unfoldingWord_en_tn/tn_HOS.tsv

124 KiB
Raw Blame History

1ReferenceIDTagsSupportReferenceQuoteOccurrenceNote
2front:introk6lu0# Introduction to Hosea\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of Hosea\n\n1. God tells Hosea to marry Gomer as a picture of how Israel relates to Yahweh (1:13:5)\n1. Israel betrays, wanders, and sins; Yahweh appeals and pleas to return to him (4:17:3)\n1. The conflict between Yahweh and Israel explained in various ways (7:413:8)\n * Similes: oven, cake, dove, bow (7:416)\n * Israel openly lies and rebels (8:114)\n * The end of Israel predicted (9:117)\n * Similes: grapes, vine, calf, lion, children, birds, and doves (10:111:11)\n * Israel sins, betrays, and breaks alliances (11:1212:1)\n * Israels history remembered (12:213:16)\n * Idolatry (13:18)\n1. Israel is hostile to Yahweh (13:916)\n1. Yahwehs last appeals to Israel (14:19)\n\n### What is the Book of Hosea about?\n\nThis book contains the prophecies of Hosea, son of Beeri. Hosea lived in the northern kingdom of Israel. He often called this kingdom Ephraim or Samaria. Hosea prophesied for about 38 years and predicted that Assyria would destroy the northern kingdom of Israel.\n\nHosea began to prophesy around 753 B.C., just before King Jeroboam II died. At this time, the kingdom of Israel was prosperous but spiritually weak. Hosea warned how Yahweh would punish Israel unless the people turned back to Yahweh and were faithful to him.\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nThis book is traditionally named “The Book of Hosea” or just “Hosea.” Translators may also call it “The Book About Hosea” or “The Sayings of Hosea.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n### Who wrote the Book of Hosea?\n\nAlthough this book tells what Hosea prophesied, it is uncertain whether Hosea wrote the book himself. It was probably written after Samaria, the capital of the norther kingdom, was destroyed in 721 B.C.\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### Why did God command Hosea to marry a prostitute?\n\nGod told Hosea to marry the prostitute Gomer. This represented how the kingdom of Israel related to Yahweh. Israel was unfaithful to Yahweh and broke the covenant with him. This is compared to a woman who is unfaithful to her husband breaks her marriage agreement with him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])\n\n### What is a lawsuit?\n\nMany cultures have a process for resolving disputes through law courts. These legal disputes are called lawsuits. The Book of Hosea contains some legal terms. This is because Yahweh is spoken of as if he were a husband accusing his wife in court of being unfaithful to him. Part of the Book of Hosea follows the form of a lawsuit. A problem is identified (4:1), someone is accused (4:4), someone is found guilty (4:15), and the guilty ones will be punished (5:1).\n\n### Who did the people of the kingdom of Israel worship?\n\nIsrael was supposed to worship Yahweh alone. But they worshiped both Yahweh and the Canaanite gods such as Baal. This was a major reason why Yahweh judged the kingdom of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])\n\n## Part 3: Important Translation Issues\n\n### What does the phrase “the declaration of Yahweh” mean?\n\nThe prophet used the phrase “the declaration of Yahweh” to mark a message as truly coming from God.\n\n### Why are English translations of Hosea very different?\n\nHosea 414 has many problems of interpretation. Some phrases in Hosea are beyond how we currently understand the Hebrew language. Many English versions have translated these difficult sections very differently.\n\n### What does the term “Israel” mean in Hosea?\n\nIn Hosea, “Israel” is used only to refer to the northern kingdom of Israel. It is not used to refer to the southern kingdom or to the two kingdoms together. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/names/kingdomofisrael]])
31:introud3c0# Hosea 1 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 1:211.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Hoseas marriage\nGod does not approve of prostitution, but he told Hosea to marry a prostitute so that the message of Israels unfaithfulness would be shown to the people. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])\n\nHoseas marriage to Gomer is a metaphor for the kingdom of Israels relationship to Yahweh. Israel was unfaithful to Yahweh and broke the covenant with him. Gomer was a woman who was unfaithful to her husband broke her marriage agreement with him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphor\n\nHosea 14 is controlled by a metaphor that Hosea lived out. He was personifying the relationship between Israel and Yahweh. Hosea played the part of Yahweh, and Gomer played the part of Israel.
41:1x3qarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomthe word of Yahweh that came0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “the word that Yahweh God spoke” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
51:1fhy8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesBeeri0This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
61:1f238rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesUzziah … Jotham … Ahaz … Hezekiah … Jeroboam … Joash0The events in this book happened during the time of these kings. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
71:1ghv4Yahweh0This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.
81:2m57nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorgreat prostitution0Here “prostitution” represents the people being unfaithful to God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
91:3l8fbrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesGomer … Diblaim0These are names of people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
101:4gin3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe house of Jehu0Here “house” means “family,” including Jehus descendants. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
111:4ykw9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe house of Israel0This expression refers to kingdom of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
121:5e655rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythe bow of Israel0Here “bow” refers to the power of the army. Alternate translation: “the military power of Israel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
131:6jgz9rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesLo-Ruhamah0This name means “no mercy.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. Alternate translation: “No Mercy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
141:8r52qrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesLo-Ruhamah0This name means “no mercy.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. See how you translated this in [Hosea 1:6](../01/06.md). Alternate translation: “No Mercy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
151:9a6mvrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesLo-Ammi0This name means “not my people.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. Alternate translation: “Not My People” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
161:10q3ve0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea.
171:10mc4brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similelike the sand of the seashore0This emphasizes the great number of Israelites. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
181:10tps4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewhich cannot be measured or counted0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which no one can measure or count” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
191:10u2atrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveIt will be that where it was said to them0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Where God said to them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
201:10zlv3where it was said to them0This expression probably refers to Jezreel, the city where crimes had been committed by kings of Israel, and which was a symbol of Gods punishment of them.
211:10lb2wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveit will be said to them0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will say to them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
221:11vlg4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewill be gathered together0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will gather them together” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
231:11t1bmgo up from the land0This expression might refer to the land where the people of Israel were in captivity.
241:11b5bzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitthe day of Jezreel0This refers to the time when God will put his people back in the land of Israel. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
252:introh75z0# Hosea 2 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations prefer to set apart quotations. The ULT and many other English translations set the lines of this chapter, which is poetry, farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. Hosea 12 is a single series forming one narrative.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphor\n\nMany relationships are used in this chapter that are metaphors for the relationship between Israel and her God. Brother, sister, husband, wife, mother, and children are examples. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\nThis chapter creates an abrupt change of address. The prophet is now addressing the children directly in the first few verses, but the whole chapter is written against Gomer as an illustration of Israel as an adulterous people. God uses Gomer as an illustration to teach the people of Israel how they should be faithful to him. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/adultery]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])
262:1qq88Connecting Statement:0# Connecting Statement:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea.
272:1if49rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamationsMy people!0This exclamation may be presented as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are my people!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])
282:1z5anrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveYou have been shown compassion0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has shown you compassion” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
292:1e5gwcompassion0Alternate translation: “kindness” or “mercy”
302:2d1d50# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea.
312:2t1g6lawsuit0This is a complaint by one person against another person in a court of law.
322:2d9bqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoryour mother0Here “mother” refers to the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
332:2vb8mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorfor she is not my wife0Yahweh is stating that Israel, spoken of here as a woman, is no longer acting like a wife to Yahweh. Instead Israel has turned away from following and worshiping him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
342:2e3qhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorneither am I her husband0Yahweh can no longer be in relationship with the nation of Israel as a husband would be to his wife. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
352:2l76mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorher acts of adultery0A wife who is adulterous leaves her husband to sleep with another man. This is how Israel was acting toward Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
362:2qp68rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorfrom between her breasts0This imagery suggests that Israel is relying on the idols and not Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
372:3x3z9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will strip her naked and show her nakedness as on the day that she was born0Yahweh will no longer protect and provide for Israel because the nation has turned away from him. In Israel, husbands were obliged by law to provide clothes for their wives. Not to do so was a sign that a man was rejecting his wife. The full meaning of this may be made clear. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
382:3w84frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileI will make her like the wilderness0Yahweh will change Israel to resemble the wilderness, which is a region that is bare and unproductive. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
392:3tk9lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will make her die from thirst0Here “thirst” refers to the need to worship and rely on Yahweh, not idols, or Israel will not be able to survive as a nation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
402:4dt2c0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea.
412:4ck3erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorfor they are children of prostitution0The Israelites are acting like they do not belong to Yahweh. Just as their parents did not worship God, Neither do they. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
422:5bbd9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorFor their mother has been a prostitute0The previous generation who sought out other gods were considered prostitutes for they were unfaithful to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
432:5pdr2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI will go after my lovers, for they give me my bread and water, my wool and flax, my oil and drink0Here “my lovers” refers to Baal and other false gods, whom Israel has chosen to worship instead of Yahweh. The list of things are essential items that allow the people to live. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
442:6e3xg0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking to Hosea.
452:6n4verc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorTherefore I will build up a hedge to block her way with thorns. I will build up a wall against her so she cannot find her way0This passage indicates that Yahweh will prevent his people from finding success and prosperity, becuase they continue to worship idols. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
462:7pk67rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThen she will say, “I will return to my first husband, for it was better for me then than it is now.”0Israel will return to Yahweh not because of their love for him, but because they are disappointed by their worship of Baal. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
472:8i5590# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea.
482:9v55urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI will take back my wool and flax that were used to cover her nakedness0This probably means that Israels harvests and flocks will fail. Yahweh will remove his blessings from Israel, and the people will be left alone and in danger of attack. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
492:9rl9drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewere used to cover her nakedness0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that the people used to clothe themselves” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
502:10fpp30# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea.
512:10jfc9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThen I will strip her naked in the sight of her lovers0This means God will humiliate the people of Israel in front of the other nations nearby. See how you translated this in [Hosea 2:3](../02/03.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
522:10j4bhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyno one will rescue her out of my hand0No one will try to help Israel. Here “hand” refers to Gods power to punish. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
532:12ege90# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do to Israel.
542:12bqk9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThese are the wages that my lovers gave me0This refers to payment that Israel received from the false gods or Baals. This direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “that these were the wages that her lovers had given to her” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
552:12f2fcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphormake them a forest0Yahweh will destroy the vineyards and fruit trees by allowing other trees and weeds to grow among them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
562:13i7k2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personthis is Yahwehs declaration0Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
572:14a2gyConnecting Statement:0# Connecting Statement:\n\nYahweh is speaking about Israel.
582:14uxh6So I am going to win her back0Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, will bring her back to me”
592:15cf8dthe Valley of Achor as a door of hope0As Yahweh lead Israel out of Egypt, he will lead Israel to the Valley of Achor so that Israel will hope again in Yahweh.
602:15sql9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorShe will answer me there as she did in the days of her youth, as in the days that she came out of the land of Egypt0Yahweh hopes that the nation of Israel will repent and again choose to worship him as their God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
612:15hhr5She will answer0Some modern versions understand the Hebrew word to mean “She will sing.”
622:16m6ggrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorMy husband0This means the people of Israel will love and be faithful to Yahweh just as a wife is to a husband. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
632:16sid2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorMy Baal0“Baal” means “master” and also refers to the false god that the Canaanites worship. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
642:17f9ggrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheFor I will remove the names of the Baals from her mouth0The Israelites will not speak the names of Baal and the idols again. The people are represented by their mouths. Alternate translation: “For I will cause you to not speak the names of the Baals” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
652:18ma1mConnecting Statement:0# Connecting Statement:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do to Israel.
662:18puj7On that day0This phrase is used to talk about a future restoration between Israel and Yahweh.
672:18j2txI will make a covenant for them0Yahwehs new covenant will include peace for the animals.
682:18c1umrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI will drive away the bow, the sword, and the battle from the land, and I will make you lie down in safety0Yahweh will keep Israels enemies away from them, there will be no more war, the people will be safe. Here “the bow, the sword, and the battle” represent war. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
692:18u7mvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymylie down in safety0This expression refers to living in safety. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
702:19t7wt0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do for Israel.
712:19h2m4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will promise to be your husband forever0Yahweh will be like the husband, and Israel will be like Yahwehs wife. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
722:19t45vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsin righteousness, justice, covenant faithfulness, and mercy0This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns. Alternate translation: “and do what is right, just, faithful, and merciful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
732:20tas9you will know Yahweh0Here “know” means to acknowledge Yahweh as their God and to be faithful to him.
742:21bb870# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do for Israel.
752:22w8qhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationThe earth will answer the grain, the new wine and the oil, and they will answer Jezreel0The land will meet the need for grain, new wine, and olive oil. These things will also meet the needs of Jezreel. The land and these products are spoken of as if they were people who could meet the needs of others. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
762:22zi92rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorJezreel0Here the name of this valley stands for all the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
772:23u9ni0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking to Hosea about what he will do for Israel.
782:23jl7brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will plant her for myself in the land0When God makes his people safe and prosperous in their land again, they are spoken of if they were agricultural crops. Alternate translation: “I will take care of the Israelite people as a farmer plants his crops and takes care of them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
792:23z8darc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesLo-Ruhamah0This name means “no mercy.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. See how you translated this in [Hosea 1:6](../01/06.md). Alternate translation: “No Mercy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
802:23l22qrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesLo-Ammi0This name means “not my people.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. See how you translated this in [Hosea 1:9](../01/09.md). Alternate translation: “Not My People” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
812:23j39crc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesAmmi Attah0This name means “you are my people.” The translator may choose to represent this meaning as the name. Alternate translation: “You Are My People” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
823:introk2ts0# Hosea 3 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter focuses on the meaning of the illustration of Hoseas marriage. It is a very short chapter written in prose to show the truth of Israels relationship with Yahweh. After bearing a number of children for Hosea, Gomer leaves him and prostitutes herself with other men, showing little to no regard for their marriage covenant. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphor\n\nThis chapter contains a continuation of the metaphor played out in chapter 2. Hosea is told to go and buy his wife out of slavery. Gomer must have been captured and held as a slave due to her adulterous activity. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/adultery]])
833:1t4kgGo again, love a woman, loved by her husband, but who is an adulteress0This refers back to [Hosea 1:2](../01/02.md). Yahweh again tells Hosea to love an adulterous woman.
843:1sa34rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionLove her just as I, Yahweh, love the people of Israel0By loving the adulterous woman, Hosea will be an example of Yahwehs love for Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
853:1rvb9they turn to other gods and love raisin cakes0People ate raisin or fig cakes during festivals where they worshiped false gods.
863:2ik7lfifteen pieces of silver and a homer and a lethek of barley0This was the price to buy a slave.
873:2x615rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersfifteen pieces0“15 pieces” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
883:2e35qrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolumea homer and a lethek of barley0This can be stated in modern units. Alternate translation: “330 liters of barley” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])
893:4s5dqFor the people of Israel will live for many days without a king, prince, sacrifice, stone pillar, ephod or household idols0Just as Hosea lived without his wife because she committed adultery, Israel will live without a king and without worshiping God, because they committed idolatry.
903:5klf5seek Yahweh their God0Here “seek” means they are asking God to accept them and their worship.
913:5ce6irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyDavid their king0Here “David” represents all the descendants of David. Alternate translation: “a descendant of David to be their king” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
923:5plr4in the last days0Alternate translation: “in the future”
933:5h6dbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythey will come trembling before Yahweh and his goodness0Here “trembling” represents feelings of awe and humility. Alternate translation: “they will come back to Yahweh and will humble themselves, honor him, and ask for his blessings” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
944:introm65b0# Hosea 4 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThe author stops using the metaphor of a husband/wife relationship and begins using a new illustration using lawsuits. God is suing the people of Israel because of all the wrong they have done. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Lawsuits\n\nLawsuits are special cases where people go to court when they have a legal issue to resolve between them. Normally, one party is accusing another party of having done wrong.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metonymy\n\nMetonymy is used in the first few verses of this chapter. Metonymy is a figure of speech in which a thing or idea is called not by its own name, but by the name of something closely associated with it. Bloodshed is associated with murder. Stumbling represents sinning. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
954:1k5fr0# General Information:\n\nThis chapter begins Yahwehs argument against the unfaithful Israelites.
964:1t2hurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorYahweh has a lawsuit against the inhabitants of the land0Yahweh stating that the people of Israel have sinned against him and broken his covenant is spoken of as if Yahweh were accusing them in court. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
974:1ste3lawsuit0This is a complaint by one person against another person in a court of law. See how you translated this in [Hosea 2:2](../02/02.md).
984:2a1s6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe people have broken all bounds0Here “bounds” stands for the limits of what the law allows. Alternate translation: “The people have disobeyed the law in every possible way” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
994:2i3ntrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsbloodshed comes after bloodshed0Here “bloodshed” stands for “murder” which often involves making the victim bleed. Alternate translation: “you commit one murder after another” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1004:3y9lxSo the land is drying up0This expression refers to drought, when no rain falls for a long time.
1014:3mp1uwasting away0becoming weak and dying because of sickness or lack of food
1024:3m1s9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveare being taken away0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “are dying” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1034:4xl630# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking about Israel.
1044:4gz4elawsuit0a complaint by one person against another person in a court of law
1054:4t69tdo not let anyone accuse anyone else0No one should accuse another person of anything because everyone is guilty of something.
1064:5j4larc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorYou priests will stumble0Here “stumble” means to disobey God or even to stop trusting him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1074:5a2zyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will destroy your mother0Here “mother” refers to the nation of Israel. See how you translated this in [Hosea 2:2](../02/02.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1084:6qhc80# General Information:\n\nIn 4:6, Yahweh is talking to the priests about the people of Israel. But in 4:7, he is talking about the priests, not to them. It is possible for the translator to follow the example of the UST, which portrays Yahweh as talking to the priests also in 4:7.
1094:6pq57rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveMy people are being destroyed because of the lack of knowledge0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “My people are perishing because you, the priests, have not properly taught them about me so that they will obey me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1104:6j1k4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitknowledge0Here “knowledge” refers to the knowledge of God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1114:7g6wyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyThey exchanged their honor for shame0This could mean: (1) “honor” is a metonym that represents Yahweh, and “shame” is a metonym that represents idols. Alternate translation: “They have stopped worshiping me, their honorable God, and now worship shameful idols” or (2) some Bible versions translate this as “I will exchange their honor for shame.” This means Yahweh will take away the things which the priests honor and cause the priests to be ashamed. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1124:8ajz2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitThey feed on the sin of my people0When people sinned, they would offer sacrifices so God would forgive them. The priests were allowed to eat these sacrifices. The priests eating these sacrifices for sin is spoken of as if they would actually feed on the peoples sins. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1134:8e3kkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitthey are greedy for more of their wickedness0The priests want the people to sin more so that the people will offer more sacrifices that the priests may eat. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1144:9lv38It will be the same for the people as for the priests0Alternate translation: “The people and the priests will be punished in the same way”
1154:9xfi6their practices0Alternate translation: “their habits” or “their conduct”
1164:10y17j0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Israel.
1174:10p57jbut not increase0Alternate translation: “but not have children”
1184:10az6xthey have gone far away0The people have stopped worshiping and following God.
1194:10j8twrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personfrom Yahweh0Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. This can be stated in the first person. Alternate translation: “from me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1204:11da24Connecting Statement:0# Connecting Statement:\n\nYahweh is talking about Israel.
1214:11ql5trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationsexual promiscuity, wine, and new wine, which have taken away their understanding0The people of Israel are pursuing sex outside of marriage and drinking too much wine. In doing these activities they have forgotten Yahwehs commands. These actions are spoken of here as if they were someone who could prevent other people from understanding the importance of obeying Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1224:12b2e9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationtheir walking sticks give them prophecies0Idol worshipers used walking sticks to help them predict the future. The walking sticks are spoken of here as if they were people who spoke prophecies. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1234:12gu5rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationa mind of promiscuity has misled them0Worshiping the idols and sleeping with the temple prostitutes has developed in the people of Israel the desire to always sin against Yahweh in these ways. Here “mind” is spoken of as if it were a separate person who was able to convince the people to disobey Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1244:12mu4trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhas misled0has convinced the people to sin (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1254:13f8ym0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Israel.
1264:13u9e7on the tops of the mountains … on the hills0It was common for the people to set up idols in these places, often called “high places” in the Old Testament.
1274:14q3pusacred prostitutes0These were women who had sexual relations with men who came to worship certain idols. This was viewed as a sacred action in honor of the false gods.
1284:14asb1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorSo this people who does not understand will be thrown down0Yahweh will destroy the nation of Israel because they do not understand or obey Gods commandments. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1294:15n41g0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Judah and Israel.
1304:15sei7may Judah not become guilty0God knows how sinful Israel has become and does not want Judah to do the same thing.
1314:15g1tiDo not go to Gilgal, you people; do not go up to Beth Aven0The people of Judah are being warned not to go to the cities of Gilgal or Beth Aven to worship idols in those places. Gilgal was once a place where Yahweh had been worshiped, but it had become a place of idol worship.
1324:15wj2frc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesBeth Aven0This was a city on the border between the northern kingdom of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin in the southern kingdom. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1334:16vaf7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similelike a stubborn heifer0Israel is compared to a young cow that will not obey its master. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1344:16b1k8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHow can Yahweh bring them to pasture like lambs in a meadow?0Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that he cannot continue to take care of the people because they are stubborn. Yahweh no longer taking care of his people is spoken of as if he were a shepherd that could not take his lambs into the field to eat because they are stubborn. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will not shepherd a rebellious people.” or “Therefore Yahweh will not continue to take care of them.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1354:16un2prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personHow can Yahweh0Here Yahweh is speaking of himself in the third person. It can be stated in the first person. Alternate translation: “How can I” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1364:17y9hs0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Israel.
1374:17vcx4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheEphraim united himself with idols; leave him alone0Here “Ephraim” represents the whole northern kingdom of Israel, which is a metonym for the people who live there. They chose to worship idols, instead of Yahweh. Yahweh is commanding Hosea to not try to correct them. The people of Israel will not listen. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1384:18t2qiher rulers dearly love their shame0The rulers are not ashamed of what they are doing when they worship idols and turn against Yahweh.
1394:19kwi7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe wind will wrap her up in its wings0Here “wind” represents Gods judgment and anger against the nation of Israel. Yahweh will allow the enemy army to defeat the people of Israel and take them as captives. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1405:introcz2x0# Hosea 5 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter continues using the poetic form exclusively.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\nThe author uses Ephraim and Israel interchangeably. They both refer to the northern kingdom of Israel. Judah is also mentioned and refers to the southern kingdom of Judah. Benjamin is part of the southern kingdom of Judah. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\nThis chapter is full of metaphors and similes. The writer uses these figures of speech to show how Yahweh will treat his people for not obeying his instructions. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]])
1415:1qy78Connecting Statement:0# Connecting Statement:\n\nYahweh is talking about Israel.
1425:1i4kfrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesYou have been a snare at Mizpah and a net spread over Tabor0A snare and a net are both objects used to catch prey. In this case, the priests and the royal household had devised ways to keep the people away from Yahweh, while enticing them into idolatry. Mizpah and Tabor were places for idol worship in the land of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1435:2e4c5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe rebels stand deep in slaughter0Here “rebels” refers to all of those people who had turned away from Yahweh, and “deep in slaughter” could refer to the murder of innocent people, or to the slaughter of animals offered to pagan idols. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1445:2z7qlThe rebels0The translator can represent this as “You rebels,” because God is really talking to the rebellious people of Israel.
1455:2u6yjin slaughter0Some modern versions interpret the Hebrew expression as standing for wickedness.
1465:2ncj1I will punish all of them0The translator can represent this as “I will punish all of you.”
1475:3ki2p0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Israel.
1485:3b88urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI know Ephraim, and Israel is not hidden from me0Here, “Ephraim” and “Israel” both refer to the whole northern kingdom of Israel, and represent the people who live there. Here God says that he knows what they are like and what they are doing. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1495:3vw9urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileEphraim, now you have become like a prostitute0Ephraim is presented in terms of a prostitute because the people have become unfaithful to God, as a prostitute is faithful to no man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1505:4xz8qfor the mind of adultery is in them0This means they have the desire to be unfaithful to God. They want to worship idols.
1515:4hh5eto turn to God … they do not know Yahweh0The translator can represent this as “to turn to me … they do not know me,” or “to turn to me … they do not know me, Yahweh.”
1525:4kub1they do not know Yahweh0Israel no longer obeys Yahweh in any way. They do not acknowledge Yahweh as their God.
1535:5iu6y0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Israel.
1545:5rch3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationThe pride of Israel testifies against him0This describes “pride” as a person who testifies against the people of Israel in court. Their prideful attitude and behavior show that they are guilty of no longer obeying Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1555:5px3drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomso Israel and Ephraim will stumble in their guilt; and Judah also will stumble with them0The two kingdoms will become completely disobedient to God because of their pride and sin. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1565:7im5kThey were unfaithful to Yahweh, for they have borne illegitimate children0This could mean: (1) this means the Israelites were marrying people from other nations and having children with them or (2) this means the Israelite parents were unfaithful to Yahweh and they were teaching their children to worship idols.
1575:7yu59rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationNow the new moon festivals will devour them with their fields0The people of Israel were supposed to celebrate during the new moon. Here this expression seems to describe the new moon festival as a beast that will eat the people and their fields. However, it is hard to interpret this expression; many versions translate it without making much sense of it. However, the overall meaning is certainly that God will punish the people for their unfaithfulness to him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1585:8uh2c0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Israel.
1595:8tj5prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletBlow the horn in Gibeah, and the trumpet in Ramah0Here “horn” and “trumpet” mean the same thing. This command is given to the people of Gibeah and Ramah to emphasize that the enemy is coming. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1605:8s184rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheSound a battle cry at Beth Aven: We will follow you, Benjamin!0Here “Benjamin” represents the soldiers from the tribe of Benjamin. This may be a request for them to lead the people into battle. But modern versions make various attempts to interpret this expression. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1615:8ail1rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesBeth Aven0This was a city on the border between the northern kingdom of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin in the southern kingdom. See how you translated this in [Hosea 4:15](../04/15.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1625:9n3peAmong the tribes of Israel I have declared what is certain to happen0Alternate translation: “I will do to the tribes of Israel what I have declared”
1635:10x6j70# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Judah and Israel.
1645:10jdz8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileThe leaders of Judah are like those who move a boundary stone0To “move a boundary stone” refers to moving the landmark that marked the border of some property, which was a crime under Israelite law. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1655:10wbd7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will pour my wrath on them like water0Yahwehs wrath against Judah will be like a large stream of water that destroys them. In the scriptures, emotions and moral qualities are often spoken of as if they were liquids. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1665:11x64trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismEphraim is crushed; he is crushed in judgment0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This statement is made twice for emphasis. Here “Ephraim” refers to the people of the northern kingdom of Israel. Alternate translation: “I will punish the people of Israel severely” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1675:11f3tbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwalked after idols0Here “walked” represents the idea of worshiping. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1685:11ww39idols0The Hebrew word translated here as “idols” is uncertain in its meaning, and is translated by modern versions in many different ways.
1695:12jy1j0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Judah and Israel.
1705:12z5lprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileI will be like a moth to Ephraim, and like rot to the house of Judah0A moth on a piece of wool and rot in a piece of wood are both destructive. Yahweh will destroy both nations. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1715:12y9bwmoth … rot0These two terms are translated in various ways because the meaning of the Hebrew word is either very broad or it is uncertain.
1725:13pf8frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorWhen Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah saw his wound0Both Ephraim (the northern kingdom of Israel) and Judah (the southern kingdom of Israel) realized that they were in danger. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1735:13e5lqthen Ephraim went to Assyria, and Judah sent messengers to the great king0Ephraim and Judah asked Assyria for help instead of asking Yahweh for help. “Great king” was a title for the king of Assyria.
1745:13be1dBut he was not able0Here “he” refers to the king of Assyria.
1755:14mxf10# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Judah and Israel.
1765:14su9frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileSo I will be like a lion to Ephraim0Yahweh is going to pursue and attack Ephraim like a lion. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1775:14bpl6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similelike a young lion to the house of Judah0Yahweh is going to treat Judah in a similar way. Yahweh is showing his displeasure with both the northern and the southern kingdoms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1785:14rse7I, even I0Yahweh is emphasizing that he is the one that is bringing judgment on all of his people.
1795:14y54frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwill tear0As a lion tears apart the animal it is eating, so Yahweh will tear his people away from their homes and country. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1805:15gc86I will go and return to my place0Yahweh will leave his rebellious people.
1815:15w7fgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorseek my face0Try to come into Gods presence by means of worship and sacrifice. Alternate translation: “ask me to pay attention to them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1826:introxu4q0# Hosea 6 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter continues using the poetic form to show how Yahweh will still show mercy to his wayward people, the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Gilead is an area in the northern kingdom of Israel where several of the tribes lived. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/mercy]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Change in speaker\n\nThere is a change in person from 6:13 to 6:411. In the first passage, the speaker is an anonymous Israelite, but in the rest of the chapter, the speaker is Yahweh.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphor\n\nThroughout the chapter, the author uses the metaphor of prostitution to say that his people have abandoned him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1836:1a6ueConnecting Statement:0# Connecting Statement:\n\nThe people of Israel confess their need to repent.
1846:1u9yerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismhe has torn us to pieces … he has injured us0God has punished the people of Israel because they disobeyed him and worshiped idols. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1856:1ntx5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismhe will heal us … he will bandage our wounds0Israel believes that God will be merciful to them when they repent and he will deliver them from their troubles. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1866:2yn3urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomAfter two days he will revive us; he will raise us up on the third day0This represents a short period of time. Israel believes God will quickly come to rescue them from their enemies. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1876:2id69rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numberstwo days … the third day0“2 days … day 3” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])
1886:3fc9rLet us know Yahweh0Here “know” means not only to learn Gods character and laws, but also to become faithful to him.
1896:3mk9brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileHis coming out is as sure as the dawn0Yahweh will come to help his people just as surely as the sun rises each morning. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1906:4e5w6Connecting Statement:0# Connecting Statement:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
1916:4e69crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionwhat will I do with you?0God is expressing that his patience is coming to an end and what remains is judgment. Alternate translation: “it is hard to know what to do with you!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1926:5n7z6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorSo I have cut them to pieces by the prophets0Through his prophets, Yahweh has pronounced destruction on the rebellious nation. The destruction, here called “cutting to pieces,” is as sure as the condemnation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1936:5kr95rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileYour decrees are like the light that shines out0Here the prophet Hosea is speaking to God. He may mean that when God gives the command for someone to die as punishment, it is like a bolt of lightning that strikes. Or he may mean that Gods commandments allow people to know the truth, just as light makes objects visible. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1946:5vv2vYour decrees0Alternate translation: “Yahwehs commands”
1956:6r5ls0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
1966:6vj1lFor I desire faithfulness and not sacrifice0This grammatical construction in Hebrew signals here the idea of “more than,” as the next line shows (“and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings”). Alternate translation: “For I desire faithfulness more than sacrifice”
1976:7xuu2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyLike Adam0This could mean: (1) this refers to Adam, the first man or (2) this is a metonym that represents the people who live in a city in Israel called Adam. Alternate translation: “Like the people in the city of Adam” or (3) this refers to people in general. The word “Adam” means “man” or “humankind.” Alternate translation: “Like all of humankind” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1986:8cwt20# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
1996:8jyk1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyGilead is a city … with footprints of blood0“Footprints of blood” probably represents the evildoers and their acts of murder. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2006:9drp6the priests band together to commit murder on the way to Shechem0We do not know what this refers to. Were priests actually guilty of attacking people on their way to Shechem, which was an important religious and political center? Or is the prophet saying that the priests have “killed” true knowledge and worship of Yahweh? It is best to translate this expression as plainly as possible.
2016:10k4360# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2026:10tac2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyEphraims prostitution0Here “prostitution” refers to Ephraims worship of false gods. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2036:10f2vhIsrael has become unclean0Israel has become unacceptable to God because of her actions.
2046:11c9zvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveFor you also, Judah, a harvest has been appointed0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I have set a time of harvest for you also, Judah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2056:11nid7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorharvest0Here “harvest” represents Gods final judgment on Israel and Judah. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2066:11hag4fortunes0prosperity and security
2077:introyc440# Hosea 7 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter continues using poetic forms to speak of Yahwehs anger over the sin of the people. The people are not seeking Yahweh; they are seeking other gods and looking for salvation from other nations like Egypt and Assyria. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Baking\n\nBaking of bread is an extended metaphor in this chapter. Yahweh uses various aspects of this activity to show his displeasure with their sins. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Israel and Ephraim\n\nThis chapter begins by using two different names for the same group of people: Israel and Ephraim. It also mentions Samaria, which was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel.
2087:1wc7w0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2097:1l8yqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI want to heal Israel0Making Israel obedient to God again and receivers of his blessing is spoken of as if it were healing. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2107:1u93nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitfor they practice deceit0The people are selling and buying products dishonestly. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2117:1u8xlmarauding band0This is a group of people who are attacking other people without cause.
2127:2t9avrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphortheir deeds surround them0The peoples evil deeds are probably spoken of here as if they were other people ready to accuse them of their crimes. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2137:2h9mhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochethey are before my face0Here God is represented by his “face” which emphasizes his presence and awareness. Alternate translation: “and I see it all” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2147:3aq6w0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking. The Hebrew text is not clear in various places. However, many people interpret it as describing the royal officials as being unfaithful to God, and also as planning to assassinate the king, and then carrying out their plans. This seems to have happened more than once. These crimes are mentioned as illustrations of the wickedness into which the nation has sunk.
2157:4ccn2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThey are all adulterers0The people committed spiritual adultery by worshiping idols and being unfaithful to Yahweh. They were probably also being unfaithful to their husbands or wives by sleeping with other people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2167:4q95brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similelike an oven heated by the baker0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This means the people had strong desires to do evil. Alternate translation: “like an oven which the baker heats” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2177:4pvh6kneading of the dough0This is a part of the process of making bread.
2187:5h9htOn the day of our king0This is perhaps a festival held by the king.
2197:5zte7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomHe reached out with his hand0This probably means to unite or join with someone. It may mean that the king joins with his officials to mock things or people that should not be mocked, even God himself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2207:6h4zw0# General Information:\n\nThe court officials plotting is described. Their anger is what motivates them to kill their king.
2217:6wuv9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileFor with hearts like an oven0This means like a fire burns in an oven, these people have strong evil desires within them. The peoples desires are represented by their “hearts.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2227:6ml3frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorTheir anger smolders0The word “smolders” means something is burning slowly without a flame. Alternate translation: “Their anger grows slowly and quietly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2237:6ydy1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileit burns high like a flaming fire0The intensity of their anger is spoken of as if it was a very hot fire. Alternate translation: “it gets very intense” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2247:7b2nnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileThey all are as hot as an oven0This compares their anger to the heat that comes from an oven. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2257:7z8nyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthey devour those who rule over them0This seems to mean that the court officials kill their kings. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2267:8a6qy0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2277:8lqx6Ephraim mixes himself among the peoples0This is probably a reference to the efforts made by the northern kingdoms kings to ally themselves with other nations for protection against attack.
2287:8q1jirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheEphraim is a flat cake that has not been turned over0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Here “Ephraim” refers to the northern kingdom of Israel. The nation is weak, as flat bread that has not been doubled over in the oven by the baker for more strength. Alternate translation: “The people of Ephraim are like a cake that no one has turned over” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2297:9qt4krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyGray hairs are sprinkled on him0Here “gray hairs” represent old age. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2307:9qta1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorbut he does not know it0However, this “old age” is clearly a way of saying that the northern kingdom is getting weaker and weaker, because the nation does not know it is “old.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2317:10i3230# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2327:10l7dgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationThe pride of Israel testifies against him0This describes “pride” as a person who testifies against the people of Israel in court. This means their prideful attitude and behavior show that they are guilty of no longer obeying Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2337:10d1v1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphornor have they sought him0Israels lack of interest in Yahweh is spoken of as if he was lost and they were not trying to find him. Alternate translation: “nor have they tried to get him to pay attention to them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2347:10l1izin spite of all this0Here “this” refers God allowing foreigners to defeat them and make them weak.
2357:11wu9brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileEphraim is like a dove, gullible and without sense0Doves were thought to be foolish birds. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2367:11jpu5Egypt … Assyria0These were powerful nations that Israel could ask for help.
2377:12hur10# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2387:12jg68rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will spread my net over them0This is a way to catch birds. Yahweh continues to compare the people of Israel to doves. When they go to Egypt or Assyria for help, Yahweh will punish them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2397:12zeb8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileI will bring them down like the birds of the sky0Yahweh speaks of the way he will judge Israel as if they were birds that he would catch in a net. Alternate translation: “I will hunt them like birds” or “I will catch them like a hunter catches birds” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2407:12c4zgin their flocking together0This expression extends the metaphor of the birds.
2417:14uda30# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2427:14jwr2they wail on their beds0It was usual for idol worshipers to eat ceremonial meals while reclining on couches or beds.
2437:14wlv2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthey turn away from me0Here no longer worshiping God is spoken of as turning away from him. Alternate translation: “they no longer worship me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2447:15kf6zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThough I trained them and strengthened their arms0This may be a military metaphor, in which God training the Israelites to love him and obey him is spoken of as if he had been training their men for war. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2457:16k39m0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2467:16r57arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileThey are like a slack bow0That is, a bow that has no bowstring, or that has no tension. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2477:16q25qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymybecause of the insolence of their tongues0Here “tongue” refers to what the officials say. Alternate translation: “because they insult me” or “because they curse me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2487:16r7ltrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsThis will become their mockery in the land of Egypt0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **mockery**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “This is why people in Egypt will mock and laugh at Israel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2498:introsj970# Hosea 8 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter continues to use the poetic form to communicate several other ways the people of Israel have sinned against God. First, Yahweh notes that they have set up a king without consulting him.\nNext, they set up or reinstalled the golden calves of Samaria. Last, they were seeking help from other nations like Egypt and Assyria. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\nThis chapter contains some references to the “calf of Samaria.” This most likely refers to an image that was set up by an earlier king of Israel. He did this in order to discourage his people from going to Jerusalem, which was part of the southern kingdom of Judah.
2508:1iyy70# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking about the coming of the Assyrian army to attack the northern kingdom.
2518:1rq62rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorAn eagle is coming over the house of Yahweh0The eagle, a bird of prey, is sometimes used to represent the enemies of Israel. Alternate translation: “As an eagle hunts another animal, the enemies of Israel are coming to capture my people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2528:1tc1qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorbroken my covenant0Here “broken” represents “disobeyed,” “violated.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2538:2hq2rknow you0Alternate translation: “are faithful to you”
2548:4hqd20# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2558:4h5agrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivebut it was only so they might be cut off0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but the result will be that I will destroy the people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2568:5p53arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personYour calf has been rejected0This could mean: (1) this is the prophet speaking. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has rejected your calf” or (2) Yahweh is speaking. Alternate translation: “I myself have rejected your calf” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2578:5xu7arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyYour calf0The people worshiped an idol that looked like a calf, so Yahweh is speaking of their worship as if it were the calf itself. Alternate translation: “Because you worship your calf idol, your worship” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2588:5k9n8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorMy anger is burning against these people0Anger is often spoken of as if it were a fire. Alternate translation: “I am very angry with these people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2598:5xq3drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionFor how long will they stay guilty?0Yahweh asks this question to express his anger about his people being impure. “I am angry with these people because they have no desire to be innocent.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2608:6y4fg0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2618:7hpc6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorFor the people sow the wind and reap the whirlwind0To sow or plant the wind is to act in useless or destructive ways. To reap the whirlwind is to suffer disaster from ones own actions. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2628:7ehs7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomThe standing grain has no heads0Here “head” refers to the part of the plant where the grain is. A stalk with no head has nothing to give to the farmer. In the same way, Israels actions will result in nothing good. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2638:7m4n5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorIf it does come to maturity, foreigners will devour it0If any of Israels actions do happen to result in something good, Israels enemies will come and take it from them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2648:8vk5d0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2658:8qfd6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorIsrael is swallowed up0“swallowed” means to be defeated and taken into exile. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The enemies of Israel have taken the Israelites away to other lands” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2668:9byr1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similelike a wild donkey all alone0People often think of donkeys as being stubborn. This means the people of Israel refused to listen to Yahweh but instead went to the people of Assyria for help. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2678:9s8b5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorEphraim has hired lovers for herself0Ephraims alliances with other nations are spoken of as if they had paid them to become prostitutes for Ephraim. Alternate translation: “The people of Israel have tried to pay other nations to protect them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2688:10inw9because of the oppression of the king of princes0That is, because the Assyrian king, also called “the Great King,” will make the people suffer.
2698:11m4nc0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2708:12ww4crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypoI could write down my law for them ten thousand times, but they would0Yahweh is describing a hypothetical situation. Here “ten thousand times” is an exaggeration that means no matter how many times he gave the people the law, they would still refuse to obey him. Alternate translation: “Even if I wrote down my law for them very many times, they would” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2718:12x66drc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersten thousand0“10,000” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2728:13gmz30# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
2738:13fl3wThey will return to Egypt0Because of their sin, God will send his people away as slaves to the Egyptians.
2749:introlkm60# Hosea 9 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThe chapter is written in poetic form to speak of Yahwehs displeasure with Israels sins. He is showing the many ways in which they do not honor him. The priests and kings do not understand how they have totally broken their covenant with Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Exile\n\nBecause the covenant has been broken, the people will be exiled into another land. This actually shows the mercy of God toward his people. He did not destroy them; he simply moved them to another place. However, this chapter goes into detail about many parts of their society to show how far they have moved away from truly worshiping Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/mercy]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Change in speaker\n\nIn verse 16, Yahweh is speaking; but in verse 17, Hosea starts speaking. There is a change in pronouns; the use of “my God” must imply that someone other than Yahweh is speaking.
2759:1fz5r0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
2769:2f2gurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationBut the threshing floor and the winepress will not feed them0This describes the threshing floor and the winepress as if they were humans that can feed someone. This means that the harvest will not provide enough grain for threshing to meet the needs of the people, and that it will not provide the grapes for pressing to make enough wine. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2779:2nt1hthe new wine will fail them0There will not be enough grape juice to make wine with.
2789:3c8av0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
2799:3sdu7Yahwehs land0This expression signals that Yahweh continues to view the land of Israel as his property, not the property of the Israelites.
2809:3dgt9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorunclean food0This is food that the Israelites would normally refuse to eat because it would make them unacceptable to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2819:4ag4rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileTheir sacrifices will be to them like mourners food0Here “mourners food” refers to what people would eat while they mourning because they were defiled and not acceptable to God. This means Yahweh will consider the peoples sacrifices to be defiled and he will not accept them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2829:4yxx6For their food will be for themselves only; it will not come into the house of Yahweh0The people of Israel will have food to eat, but Yahweh will not accept it as a sacrifice.
2839:4n7e6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationit will not come into the house of Yahweh0The unclean food is spoken of as if it were able to go places by itself. Of course, people actually had to take it with them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2849:5nbi80# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
2859:5i5ufrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhat will you do on the day of an appointed festival, on the day of a festival for Yahweh?0Hosea uses this question to emphasize that the people will no longer be able to observe their festivals when their enemies defeat them and take them captive. Alternate translation: “You will not be able to celebrate the festivals that Yahweh appointed for you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2869:5vze5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismthe day of an appointed festival … the day of a festival for Yahweh0Both of these mean the same thing. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2879:6x9gbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personif they escape0Here “they” still refers to the people of Israel. You can continue stating this is second person. Alternate translation: “if you escape” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2889:6n2rnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyEgypt will gather them, and Memphis will bury them0Egypt and Memphis refer to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “the army of Egypt will capture you. You will die there, and the people in the city of Memphis will bury you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2899:6ymw7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorAs for their treasures of silver—sharp briers will possess them0Briers growing in the places where Israelites stored their silver is spoken of as if the briers were human enemies that would take the Israelites precious possessions for themselves. Alternate translation: “Sharp briers will grow where they store their treasures of silver” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2909:6ks54rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletsharp briers will possess them, and thorns will fill their tents0Here “sharp briers” and “thorns” mean the same thing. To have briers and thorns growing represents a land that has become desolate and like a wilderness. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2919:6huq9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymytheir tents0Here “tents” represents the Israelites homes. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2929:7j1km0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
2939:7g5surc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismThe days for punishment are coming; the days for retribution are coming0Hosea says these two similar phrases to emphasize that Yahweh will soon judge the people of Israel for their evil deeds. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2949:7k43urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismThe prophet is a fool, and the inspired man is insane0These phrases mean basically the same thing. This could mean: (1) that the people regarded the prophets as madmen or (2) that the prophets had become crazy because of the sins that the people had committed. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2959:7ns2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletThe prophet is a fool, and the inspired man is insane0Here “prophet” and “inspired man” both mean a person who claims to receive messages from God. It is implied that these people are false prophets and only thought they received messages from God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2969:7dpe1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletbecause of your great iniquity and great hostility0The phrases “great iniquity” and “great hostility” share similar meanings. The iniquity of the people manifested itself in hostility towards Yahweh and his prophets. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2979:8s6hc0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
2989:8y37arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe prophet is the watchman for my God over Ephraim0A “watchman” watches outside his city to see if danger is coming. The prophet warning the people when they are sinning and are in danger of having his God punish them is spoken of as if he were a watchman for the city. Alternate translation: “The prophet is like a watchman for God over Ephraim” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2999:8s65pThe prophet is the watchman for my God over Ephraim0Some versions translate this passage as “The prophet with my God is the watchman over Ephraim.”
3009:8zg9vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnounThe prophet is0This refers to prophets in general that God has appointed. Alternate translation: “Prophets are” or “True prophets are” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
3019:8il1grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheEphraim0Here “Ephraim” represents all the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
3029:8f5r7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphora bird snare is on all of his paths0A “bird snare” is a trap used to catch a bird. This means the people of Israel do whatever they can to stop Gods prophet. Alternate translation: “the people set a trap for him wherever he goes” or “the people do all they can to harm him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3039:9s4cmThey have deeply corrupted themselves as in the days of Gibeah0“The people of Israel have sinned and become very corrupt as they did at Gibeah long ago.” This is probably a reference to the shocking actions of the tribe of Benjamin recounted in Judges 1921.
3049:10hd750# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
3059:10rt26When I found Israel0This refers to when Yahweh first started his relationship with the people of Israel by claiming them as his own special people.
3069:10hf2arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismit was like finding grapes in the wilderness. Like the very first fruit of the season on the fig tree0Both of these statements emphasize situations that are pleasing to a person. This means Yahweh was very happy when his relationship with the people of Israel started. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
3079:10d3snrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesBaal Peor0This is the name of a mountain in the land of Moab where the false god Baal was worshiped. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
3089:11hbj90# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
3099:11p7n6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similetheir glory will fly away like a bird0The people of Ephraim, or the northern kingdom of Israel, will lose everything that makes other nations respect them. Their glory will quickly disappear, as a bird flies away. Alternate translation: “their glory will be like a bird that flies away from them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
3109:12t5yprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwhen I turn away from them0When God stops helping the northern kingdom, it will be as if he physically turned away from them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3119:13vx3t0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
3129:13us3grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI have seen Ephraim, just like Tyre, planted in a meadow0This speaks of the people being in a safe place as if they were a tree planted in a peaceful meadow. Alternate translation: “The nation of Israel was once beautiful and pleasant like the city of Tyre, like a tree that someone plants in a meadow” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3139:13bkh2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheEphraim … Tyre0Here “Ephraim” represents the whole northern kingdom of Israel. These places refer to the people who live in them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3149:13n919rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymybut Ephraim will bring out his children0The word “children” are the people from that nation. Alternate translation: “but the people of Israel will bring out their children” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3159:14m7l2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionGive them, Yahweh—what will you give them? Give them0Hosea uses a question to emphasize that he wants Yahweh to give the people of Israel what they deserve. Alternate translation: “This is what I ask you, Yahweh, to give them: give them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
3169:14hqc1a miscarrying womb0To “miscarry” means that a pregnancy ends too early and the baby dies. Hosea is asking that all the nations women be like that.
3179:15jgc20# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
3189:15c3jirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI will drive them out of my house0Yahweh is stating that he will force Israel out of his land, the land of Canaan. Here “my house” represents Canaan. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3199:15z8j7their officials0the men who serve the king
3209:16iyy30# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking in verse 16. Hosea begins speaking in verse 17.
3219:16i7bgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorEphraim is diseased, and their root is dried up; they bear no fruit0Yahweh speaks of the people of Israel as if they were a diseased tree that does not produce fruit and is ready to be cut down. This is a statement that the people have become weak, and that soon their enemies will come and defeat them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
32210:introyd8u0# Hosea 10 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter is written in poetic form and continues the theme of Israels many sins against Yahweh. Even though Israel prospered for a time as they multiplied their sins, Yahweh was leading them toward destruction. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\nYahwehs relationship to his people was not based on his peoples actions. Even though they rebelled, Yahweh still desired to rescue them. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Jacob\n\nThe repeated use of different names for the two kingdoms can be confusing. In verse 11, “Ephraim” refers to the northern kingdom of Israel, and “Judah” refers to the southern kingdom of Judah. However, Jacob is also mentioned. This use of “Jacob” makes us think of the earlier unified nation and may also refer to a future unified nation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
32310:1px1g0# General Information:\n\nHosea is speaking about Israel.
32410:1rq8zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorIsrael is a luxuriant vine that produces his fruit0Israel is spoken of as a vine that was very fruitful. For a while the people prospered and were strong. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
32510:1z9gea luxuriant vine0This vine produces more fruit than normal.
32610:1b9evAs his fruit increased … As his land produced more0Both of these mean as the people prospered and grew stronger and richer.
32710:2d7xdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheTheir heart is deceitful0The “heart” refers to the whole person, emphasizing their emotions and desires. Alternate translation: “They are deceitful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
32810:2qaa1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymynow they must bear their guilt0Here “guilt” is a metonym for the punishment that is associated with it. This punishment is spoken of as if it was a heavy load for them to carry. Alternate translation: “now is the time that Yahweh will punish them for their sins” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
32910:3wu2z0# General Information:\n\nHosea is speaking about Israel.
33010:3c5c6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionand a king—what could he do for us?0The people wills say that their kings could not have helped them. Alternate translation: “Even if we had a king now, he could not help us.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
33110:4kw7erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomThey speak empty words0Here “empty words” refers to lies. Alternate translation: “They speak lies” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
33210:4qxu4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorSo justice springs up like poisonous weeds in the furrows of a field0What they people called justice in their laws and legal decisions is spoken of as if it were a plant sprouting up. Alternate translation: “So their decisions are not just; instead, they are harmful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
33310:4pk52rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similelike poisonous weeds in the furrows of a field0Their lies and injustice spread throughout their nation and harm everyone like poisonous plants. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
33410:5yyw70# General Information:\n\nHosea is speaking about Israel.
33510:5ete5rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesBeth Aven0This was a city on the border between the northern kingdom of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin in the southern kingdom. See how you translated this in [Hosea 4:15](../04/15.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
33610:6w5gurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveThey will be carried to Assyria0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The Assyrians will carry them away” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
33710:6lfq9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletEphraim will be disgraced, and Israel will be ashamed of its idol0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And the people of Israel will be very ashamed because they had worshiped idols” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
33810:6uvj4its idol0Many versions interpret the Hebrew word in this passage as “advice,” “plans,” or “intentions.”
33910:7a35src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveSamarias king will be destroyed0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The Assyrians will destroy the king of Samaria” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
34010:7ci5drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similelike a chip of wood on the surface of the water0This means the king of Samaria will be as helpless as a small piece of wood that waves of the water toss back and forth. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
34110:8jvt8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveThe high places of wickedness will be destroyed0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The Assyrians will destroy Israels high places, where the people acted very wickedly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
34210:8u7pprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostropheThe people will say to the mountains, “Cover us!” and to the hills, “Fall on us!”0People do not normally speak to things that cannot think or hear them. Translators may choose to have a different format for this passage if their languages do not allow such speech. Alternate translation: “The people will say, We wish the mountains would cover us! and We wish the hills would fall on us!’” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
34310:9qgp50# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
34410:9v7l6days of Gibeah0This is probably a reference to the shocking actions of the tribe of Benjamin recounted in Judges 1921. See how you translated this in [Hosea 9:9](../09/09.md).
34510:9xx8qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthere you have remained0This passage probably means that the people of the present time continue to act in the same ways that their ancestors did at Gibeah. Alternate translation: “and you think just as they did” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
34610:9b6a6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWill not war overtake the sons of wrong in Gibeah?0Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that those in Gibeah who do wrong will certainly have to endure war. And this speaks of the people having to endure war when their enemies come as if war were a person that would catch up with them. Alternate translation: “War will certainly come on those who do wrong in Gibeah.” or “Enemies will certainly attack those who do wrong in Gibeah.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
34710:9k8hfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomthe sons of wrong0Here “son of” is an idiom that means “having the characteristic of.” Alternate translation: “those who do wrong” or “the evildoers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
34810:10gmp60# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
34910:10uf9gdouble iniquity0This refers to the many sins of Israel.
35010:11bf8zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorEphraim is a trained heifer that loves to thresh0A heifer loves to thresh because they can walk around freely without a yoke. Yahweh means that he has allowed the people of Israel to be free and have a pleasant life. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
35110:11n6vdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will put a yoke on her fair neck. I will put a yoke on Ephraim0Here “yoke” refers to suffering and slavery. Yahweh has been kind to the people of Israel, but the people have been unfaithful to him. So he will punish them and send them away as slaves. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
35210:11cp1rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorJudah will plow; Jacob will pull the harrow by himself0Here “Judah” refers to the people of the southern kingdom and “Jacob” is the people of the northern kingdom. This means God will cause difficult times for both kingdoms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
35310:11g2e2harrow0a tool used to smooth the land and cover the seeds after plowing
35410:12uye70# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
35510:12t19erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorSow righteousness for yourselves, and reap the fruit of covenant faithfulness0Righteousness and covenant faithfulness are spoken of as if they were crops that could be sown and harvested. The abstract nouns “righteousness” and “faithfulness” can be stated as “right” and “faithful.” Alternate translation: “Plow, now, and do what is right, and you will reap the fruit of faithful love” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
35610:12fvl9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorBreak up your unplowed ground0When the ground is “unplowed” it is not ready to be planted. Yahweh means he wants the people to repent so they can start doing what is right. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
35710:13q9asrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorYou have plowed wickedness; you reaped injustice0Wickedness and injustice are spoken of as if they were crops that could be sown and harvested. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
35810:13nsy5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorYou have eaten the fruit of deception0The result of deception are spoken of as if they were a food that could be eaten. Alternate translation: “You now suffer the consequences of having deceived each other” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
35910:14yp1iIt will be as Shalman destroyed Beth Arbel on a day of battle0The coming war is being compared to a battle long ago.
36010:14fc5frc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesShalman0This is the name of a king who destroyed the city of Beth Arbel around 740 BC. His army murdered women and children in the attack. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
36110:14ist7rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesBeth Arbel0This is likely the name of a city of the tribe of Naphtali. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
36210:15wql9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymySo it will happen to you, Bethel, because of your great wickedness0Here “Bethel” represents the people who live there. The prophet addresses the people of Bethel as if they were there listening to him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
36311:introb7ac0# Hosea 11 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter continues using the poetic form to communicate about Yahwehs relationship to the northern kingdom of Israel.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphor\n\nThis chapter contains an extended metaphor of Israel as a male child in the care of Yahweh, his parent. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n### Rhetorical question\n\nYahweh uses rhetorical questions to show his disappointment and anger at Israels persistent rejection of him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
36411:1h8vd0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking of caring for Israel like a parent cares for a child.
36511:1w4nmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorWhen Israel was a young man0Yahweh is speaking about the people of Israel as if they were a young man. Yahweh is referring to when he first started his relationship with the nation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
36611:1y9f3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI called my son out of Egypt0“son” refers to the people of God the Father. Alternate translation: “I led my son out of Egypt” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
36711:2imw3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveThe more they were called, the more they went away from me0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The more I called them to be my people, the more they refused me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
36811:3w3840# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking about how he cared for Israel.
36911:3mgr5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorit was I who taught Ephraim to walk0Yahweh refers to Israel as a small child whom he taught to walk. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
37011:3b3filifted them up by their arms0This expression continues the metaphor. Alternate translation: “took care of them”
37111:4wy1erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismI led them with cords of humanity, with bands of love0Yahweh loved his people in ways that they as humans could understand and appreciate. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
37211:4e1werc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileI was to them like someone who eased the yoke on their jaws0Yahweh is speaking of the nation of Israel as a hardworking animal whose work he made easier. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
37311:4j7csI bent down to them and fed them0This expression continues the metaphor in which Israel is pictured as a young child. It may mean that Yahweh provided for all their physical needs.
37411:5h9l80# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking about Israel.
37511:5ng27rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWill they not return to the land of Egypt?0This question means that the nation of Israel will once again be slaves as they were in Egypt. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
37611:5lp4brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWill Assyria not rule over them because they refuse to return to me?0The nation of Israel will be captives of Assyria as a result of their refusal to remain faithful to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
37711:6emy8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyThe sword will fall on their cities0Here “sword” represents the enemies of Israel who will destroy Israels cities. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
37811:6kgr1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymydestroy the bars of their gates0Gates offered security to city inhabitants from their enemies, and the bars secured the closed gates. To destroy the bars meant to take away the peoples security. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
37911:7f2eerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personThough they call to the Most High0Here God is speaking about himself in the third person. It can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “Though they call to me, the Most High” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
38011:7e7fvno one will help them0Yahweh will not allow anyone to help Israel because they turned away from him.
38111:8ubx20# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking about Israel.
38211:8nmr7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionHow can I give you up, Ephraim? How can I hand you over, Israel?0Yahweh loves his people so much that he will not totally destroy them. These questions may be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “I will not give you up, Ephraim. I will not hand you over, Israel.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
38311:8nb87rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionHow can I make you like Admah? How can I make you like Zeboyim?0Yahweh loves his people so much that he will not totally destroy them. These questions may be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “I do not want to act toward you as I acted toward Admah or make you like Zeboyim—cities that I destroyed along with Sodom” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
38411:8s6u1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyMy heart has changed within me0Here “heart” represents Gods will and decisions. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
38511:9que5For I am God and not a man0God is not like people, who often decide very quickly to take revenge.
38611:9xmy1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsI will not come in wrath0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **wrath**, you can express the same idea with an adjective such as “angry.” Alternate translation: “I will not come to you and be angry with you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
38711:10k7zh0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking about when he will restore his people.
38811:10ge5vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThey will follow Yahweh0Worshiping and honoring Yahweh is spoken of as if it were following him (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
38911:10ct2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similehe will roar like a lion0Yahweh making it possible for his people to return to his land is spoken of as if he were calling to his people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
39011:11b5jkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileThey will come trembling like a bird … like a dove0They will come home quickly as a bird returns to its nest. “Trembling” may refer to the fluttering of a birds wings. It may also signal the peoples feelings of humility and reverence for God (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
39111:11kmq4the declaration of Yahweh0“what Yahweh has declared” or “what Yahweh has solemnly said.” See how you translated this in [Hosea 2:13](../02/13.md).
39211:12i52h0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is talking about Israel and Judah.
39311:12mtk3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismEphraim surrounds me with falsehood, and the house of Israel with deceit0Lies and deceitful acts are spoken of as if they were objects that the people of the northern kingdom surrounded Yahweh with. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
39411:12csf5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyBut Judah is still going about with me0Here “Judah” refers to the people who live there. This speaks of being loyal to God as “going about” with him. However, many versions have different interpretations of this difficult passage. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
39512:introz7s40# Hosea 12 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Jacob\n\nThere is a parallel between Jacob and the northern kingdom of Israel. In the same way that Jacob returned to Yahweh, the northern kingdom should repent of their idolatry and turn back to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])
39612:1k8wj0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
39712:1ec28rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheEphraim feeds on the wind0Here “Ephraim” represents all the people of Israel. Also “wind” represents something that is useless or temporary. The people of Israel doing things that will not help them is spoken of as if they eat the wind. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
39812:1g9zdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyfollows after the east wind0East winds were very hot and destructive to the land. Here it represents anything that is destructive. The people doing things that will destroy themselves is spoken of as if they are following the east wind. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
39912:1ij53carry olive oil to Egypt0The people of Israel sent olive oil as a present to the king of Egypt to try and persuade him to help them.
40012:2evm4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorYahweh also has a lawsuit against Judah0Yahweh stating that the people of Judah have sinned against him and broken his covenant is spoken of as if Yahweh were accusing them in court. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Hosea 4:1](../04/01.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
40112:2j5y6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletagainst Judah … punish Jacob for what he has done … repay him for his deeds0Here “Judah” and “Jacob” both represent the people of Judah. Alternate translation: “against the people of Judah … punish them for what they have done … repay them for their deeds” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
40212:2w5u6lawsuit0This is a complaint by one person against another person in a court of law. See how you translated this in [Hosea 2:2](../02/02.md).
40312:3dr1v0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking about Jacob the ancestor of the Israelites.
40412:3v8bhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitIn the womb Jacob grasped his brother by the heel0Jacob wanted to take his brothers place as the firstborn, so he tried to keep his brother from being born first. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
40512:4s9n9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitHe struggled with the angel and won0Jacob fought with an angel so that the angel would bless him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
40612:5j2gg0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
40712:5cy44rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveis his name to be called on0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Here “name” represents the entire character of God. Alternate translation: “is his name to which we pray” or “is his name by which we worship him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
40812:6guk8Keep covenantal faithfulness and justice0This refers to obeying Gods law and doing what is right.
40912:7h5jj0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking about Israel.
41012:7n12efalse scales0The merchants use scales that do not accurately measure the weight of the money or products they are buying or selling.
41112:7qvm9they love to defraud0The merchants cheat their customers by lying to them and taking more money than they should.
41212:8bm7nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismI have certainly become very rich; I have found wealth for myself0These two phrases mean the same thing and mean that the people of Ephraim consider themselves to be very prosperous. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
41312:8p9bbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI have found wealth0Becoming wealthy by trading is spoken of as finding wealth. Alternate translation: “I have made much money” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
41412:8p94jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletthey will not find any iniquity in me, anything that would be sin0These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that the people of Ephraim consider themselves to be blameless. Learning that someone has sinned is spoken of as finding sin in that person. Alternate translation: “they will not discover that I have done anything sinful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
41512:9p92t0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking to the people of Israel.
41612:9a7ddI am Yahweh your God from the land of Egypt0This could mean: (1) “I am Yahweh your God, who brought your ancestors from the land of Egypt” or (2) “I have been your God ever since you were in the land of Egypt” or (3) “I became your God when you were in the land of Egypt”
41712:9g5ykrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI will again make you live in tents0This could mean: (1) Yahweh is threatening to force the people of Israel from their homes and make them live in tents. So, here to “live in tents” would represent being sent into exile, or (2) it is a promise that after their exile the people will live in tents again, and Yahweh will take care of them as he did when the Israelites left Egypt. So, here “to live in tents” would represent a return to an ideal situation when Yahweh took care of his people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
41812:10q6nirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheBy the hand of the prophets0Here “hand” represents the one who carries out an action. Alternate translation: “Through the prophets” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
41912:11kqj80# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
42012:11h73rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similetheir altars will be like heaps of stone in the furrows of the fields0The altars where the people worshiped will be thrown down and become piles of stones. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
42112:12bxi4Jacob fled to the land of Aram; Israel worked in order to get a wife0Here “Jacob” and “Israel” refer to the same person. Jacobs name became Israel later in his life.
42212:13a79t0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
42312:13a8xeby a prophet0That is, Moses.
42412:14v7cgbitterly0The anger that the people have caused in Yahweh is extremely great.
42512:14czc8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymySo his Lord will leave his blood on him0Here “blood” refers to the guilt incurred by people who murder others. God will not forgive their sins. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
42612:14ay94rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwill turn back on him his disgrace0The idea of making someone suffer the results of his own actions is spoken of as if those actions were objects that were thrown back at him. Alternate translation: “will make him suffer from his own disgraceful actions” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
42713:introla1r0# Hosea 13 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter uses poetry to communicate Yahwehs disgust and anger with the northern kingdom of Israel.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n“Israel” and “Ephraim” are terms used to speak about the people of the northern kingdom. Samaria was the capital of the northern kingdom. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\nThis chapter makes it clear that the northern kingdom is going to be nearly decimated as a people. They will no longer exist as a nation.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Rhetorical question\n\nHosea uses rhetorical questions throughout this chapter. They are not questions requesting information but rather questions indicating some emotion like anger or dissatisfaction. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
42813:1u92j0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
42913:1aw8src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheWhen Ephraim spoke0Hosea uses the term “Ephraim” to refer to the entire northern kingdom, although it was also the name of one of the ten tribes. Hosea seems to be speaking of a long-past time, when the northern kingdom was strong and honored, unlike at the present time. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
43013:1hyz3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitthere was trembling0It is understood that people were trembling because they were afraid of Ephraim. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “there was trembling among the people” or “people trembled in fear” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
43113:1lw4yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe exalted himself in Israel0Here “exalting” means to make oneself important. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
43213:1nqg7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorbut he became guilty because of Baal worship, and he died0When the people of Ephraim began worshiping Baal, they grew weak, and their enemies defeated them. Here “died” refers to the nation growing weak. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
43313:2rtl5Now they sin more and more0Here “they” refers to the tribe of Ephraim and the entire nation of Israel, who followed Ephraims example.
43413:2q78prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitThese men who sacrifice kiss calves0Part of idol worship was kissing idol figures that were images of calves. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
43513:3jbj2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileSo they will be like the morning clouds … like the dew … like the chaff … like smoke out of a chimney0These expressions state that Israel is temporary and will soon disappear if they continue to worship idols instead of following Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
43613:3l2kjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethat is driven by the wind away0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that the wind blows away” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
43713:4k7l10# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking of his people as if they had been a flock of sheep that he found wandering in the wilderness. He says that he claimed them there for his own.
43813:5gbf1I knew you in the wilderness0Yahweh claimed the Hebrew people as his own special people, and he took care of them there.
43913:6nkz8When you had pasture, then you became full0The image of sheep is continued with this expression.
44013:6cq2prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoryour heart became lifted up0Becoming arrogant is spoken of as ones heart being lifted up. Alternate translation: “you became proud” (See:[[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
44113:7x7c50# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
44213:7tq4brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similelike a lion … like a leopard0These are wild animals that attack and kill other animals. Yahweh continues to say that he will destroy his people for their sins. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
44313:8y1e5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileas a bear … as a lion … as a wild beast0These are wild animals that attack and kill other animals. Yahweh continues to say that he will destroy his people for their sins. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
44413:8ft6grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisas a bear that is robbed of her cubs0The words “would attack” are left out because they are understood. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “like a bear would attack an animal that takes her cubs” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
44513:8bl6frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisas a lion0The words “would devour them” are left out because they are understood. Alternate translation: “as a lion would devour them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
44613:9jdv70# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
44713:9k6kgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionwho will be able to help you?0Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that no one will be able to help the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “there will be no on able to help you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
44813:10vd6rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhere now is your king, that he may save you in all your cities? Where are your rulers, about whom you said to me, Give me a king and princes?0Yahweh asks these questions to tell Israel that when they rebel against him, no king or ruler can help them. Only Yahweh can save them from destruction. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
44913:12v1mf0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
45013:12d9c6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismEphraims iniquity has been stored up; his guilt has been stored up0These two phrases are similar and mean basically the same thing. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
45113:12f96yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhas been stored up0The northern kingdoms iniquity and guilt are spoken of as if they were objects that could be kept for a purpose. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
45213:13ba82rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorPains of childbirth will come on him0Here Yahweh speaks of the suffering the people of Israel will suffer as if it were the pains of child birth. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
45313:13b6hnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorbut he is an unwise son, for when it is time to be born, he does not come out of the womb0Yahweh now describes the people of Israel as the baby to which the mother is giving birth. The baby is unwise because it does not want to be born. The people do not want to repent and obey Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
45413:14yv5m0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
45513:14q1qbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWill I rescue them from the hand of Sheol? Will I rescue them from death?0Yahweh uses these questions to tell the people of Israel that he is not going to save them from dying. He will certainly punish them. Alternate translation: “I will certainly not rescue them from death and from going down to Sheol.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
45613:14iq7jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationWhere, death, are your plagues? Where, Sheol, is your destruction?0Yahweh speaks to “death” and “Sheol” as if they were people. Yahweh uses questions to say that he will destroy the people soon. Alternate translation: “Now I will cause plagues and let the people of Israel die. I will destroy them and send them to Sheol.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
45713:14zq3trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorCompassion is hidden from my eyes0Not to think about having compassion is spoken of as if compassion were hidden so that it cannot be seen. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **compassion**, you can express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “I have no compassion for them” or “I will not be compassionate towards them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
45813:15w2sd0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
45913:15r777rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhis brothers0This expression seems to stand for the nations around the northern kingdom, especially Judah, the southern kingdom. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
46013:15nj8nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoran east wind will come; the wind of Yahweh0A wind from the east was very hot and destructive. Here it refers to the armies from the east that Yahweh will send to destroy the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
46113:15cy4jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorEphraims spring will dry up, and his well will have no water0Hosea continues to describe how God will punish the people of Israel. Here water represents life, vitality, and strength. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
46213:15g7klrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhis storehouse0This refers to all of the peoples possessions. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
46313:16hb4l0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
46413:16y8farc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymySamaria will be guilty, for she has rebelled against her God0Here “Samaria” refers to the people in the city of Samaria who are guilty of rebelling against God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
46513:16g4vnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismThey will fall0Here to “fall” represents dying. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
46613:16w5hvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyby the sword0Here the “sword” represents the enemy soldiers who used swords in battle. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
46713:16kms6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivetheir young children will be dashed to pieces, and their pregnant women will be ripped open0These phrases can be put into the active voice. Alternate translation: “the enemy will dash their young children to pieces, and they will rip open the pregnant women” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
46814:introbp7t0# Hosea 14 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis last chapter of Hosea ends with hope. In this chapter, Hosea calls for Israel to confess to Yahweh and repent. This chapter continues to be written in poetic form, using metaphors and other devices to communicate Gods love for his sinful people. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/confess]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/love]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\nWhy are confession and repentance even suggested here for a people that Yahweh has already condemned to be destroyed? It is because this is a teaching that Yahweh is a merciful God who loves his people. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/mercy]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Speaker\n\nThe use of first and second person in this chapter often signifies a change in speaker. In this chapter, Hosea is speaking to the northern kingdom to tell them that Yahweh loves them.\nThere are several places in this chapter where the writer switches from the third person to the second or the first person. This may cause some confusion about who is speaking.
46914:1x5ih0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
47014:1e3jerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorfor you have fallen because of your iniquity0Sinning is spoken of here as if it were falling. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
47114:2bl3brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitTake with you words0This probably means words of confession and praise. Alternate translation: “Confess your sins” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
47214:2xcc8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythe fruit of our lips0What a person says is called the fruit of his lips. Modern versions have different translations of this difficult passage. Alternate translation: “our words and songs of praise” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
47314:3r5m50# General Information:\n\nHosea is speaking
47414:3xvt4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheto the work of our hands0Here people are represented by their “hands” to refer to the people making things. Alternate translation: “to the idols we made” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
47514:3y9akthe fatherless person0This expression stands perhaps for the entire nation. It indicates Gods enormous compassion for his people.
47614:3mh3wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsfinds compassion0Here the act of God having compassion is spoken of as if it were an object that someone experiencing that compassion had found. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **compassion**, you can express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “finds one who is compassionate” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
47714:4j8i40# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
47814:4x6kzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will heal their turning away0Stopping the people from turning away from God is spoken of as if he were healing them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
47914:4e5ggrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphortheir turning away0The failure of the people to obey God is spoken of as if they had physically turned away from him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
48014:5akq8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileI will be like the dew to Israel; he will blossom like the lily0God is spoken of as if he were dew that brought needed moisture to plants, and Israel is spoken of as if it were one person, and as if he were a flower that could blossom. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
48114:5s2kmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similetake root like a cedar in Lebanon0The picture of Israel in the form of a plant is continued here, but this time in the form of a tall cedar tree in Lebanon, which was known for such trees. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
48214:6pa2frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileHis branches will spread out … like the cedars in Lebanon0This passage continues the same image. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
48314:7ia8e0# General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking.
48414:7z3a1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe people who live in his shade will return0The people of Israel will once again live protected by God. Israel is spoken of as living in his shade. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
48514:7e5fjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similethey will revive like grain and blossom like vines0Israels new prosperity is spoken of in agricultural terms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
48614:7h77brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileHis fame will be like the wine of Lebanon0Just as Lebanons wine was famous, so Israel will be famous. Alternate translation: “People everywhere will know about the nation of Israel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
48714:8as1urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionwhat more have I to do with idols?0This passage signifies that God will stop the people of Israel from worshiping idols any longer. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
48814:8v7m9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similea cypress whose leaves are always green0A cypress is a tree whose leaves stay green all year. This represents Yahweh and his blessings on Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
48914:8dja4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorfrom me comes your fruit0Here “fruit” represents every good thing that comes from Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
49014:9sr4g0# General Information:\n\nHosea the prophet is speaking.
49114:9rmk6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWho is wise that he may understand these things? Who understands these things so that he may know them?0The prophet uses these questions to say that wise people will understand and listen to what has been said to them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
49214:9y4uprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorFor the ways of Yahweh are right, and the righteous will walk in them0Yahwehs commandments are spoken of as ways to walk in. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
49314:9ilu4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorstumble0Disobeying Yahweh is spoken of as if it were stumbling while walking. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])