Hosea 13:9

Authorized King James Version

O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself; but in me is thine help.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שִֽׁחֶתְךָ֥
thou hast destroyed
to decay, i.e., (causatively) ruin (literally or figuratively)
#2
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
O Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#3
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#4
בִ֥י
H0
#5
בְעֶזְרֶֽךָ׃
thyself but in me is thine help
aid

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Hosea. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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