Hosea 1:9

Authorized King James Version

Then said God, Call his name Lo-ammi: for ye are not my people, and I will not be your God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֹּ֕אמֶר
H559
Then said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
קְרָ֥א
H7121
God Call
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
#3
שְׁמ֖וֹ
H8034
his name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#4
לֹ֣א
H0
#5
עַמִּ֑י
H3818
Loammi
lo-ammi, the name of hosea's second son
#6
כִּ֤י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
אַתֶּם֙
H859
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#8
לֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
עַמִּ֔י
H5971
for ye are not my people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#10
וְאָנֹכִ֖י
H595
i
#11
לֹֽא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#12
אֶהְיֶ֥ה
H1961
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#13
לָכֶֽם׃
H0

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection