Hosea 2:14

Authorized King James Version

Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לָכֵ֗ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#2
הִנֵּ֤ה
lo!
#3
אָֽנֹכִי֙
i
#4
מְפַתֶּ֔יהָ
Therefore behold I will allure
to open, i.e., be (causatively, make) roomy; usually figuratively (in a mental or moral sense) to be (causatively, make) simple or (in a sinister way)
#5
וְהֹֽלַכְתִּ֖יהָ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#6
הַמִּדְבָּ֑ר
her into the wilderness
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
#7
וְדִבַּרְתִּ֖י
and speak
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#8
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#9
לִבָּֽהּ׃
comfortably
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection