Hosea 2:5

Authorized King James Version

For their mother hath played the harlot: she that conceived them hath done shamefully: for she said, I will go after my lovers, that give me my bread and my water, my wool and my flax, mine oil and my drink.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֤י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
זָֽנְתָה֙
H2181
hath played the harlot
to commit adultery (usually of the female, and less often of simple fornication, rarely of involuntary ravishment); figuratively, to commit idolatry (
#3
אִמָּ֔ם
H517
For their mother
a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
#4
הֹבִ֖ישָׁה
H3001
them hath done shamefully
to be ashamed, confused or disappointed; also (as failing) to dry up (as water) or wither (as herbage)
#5
הֽוֹרָתָ֑ם
H2029
she that conceived
to be (or become) pregnant, conceive (literally or figuratively)
#6
כִּ֣י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
אָמְרָ֗ה
H559
for she said
to say (used with great latitude)
#8
אֵלְכָ֞ה
H1980
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#9
אַחֲרֵ֤י
H310
after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#10
מְאַהֲבַי֙
H157
my lovers
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#11
נֹתְנֵ֤י
H5414
that give
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#12
לַחְמִי֙
H3899
me my bread
food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)
#13
וּמֵימַ֔י
H4325
and my water
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#14
צַמְרִ֣י
H6785
my wool
wool
#15
וּפִשְׁתִּ֔י
H6593
and my flax
linen (i.e., the thread, as carded)
#16
שַׁמְנִ֖י
H8081
mine oil
grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness
#17
וְשִׁקּוּיָֽי׃
H8250
and my drink
a beverage; moisture, i.e., (figuratively) refreshment

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hosea, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Hosea.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Hosea Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection