Then said the LORD unto me, Go yet, love a woman beloved of her friend, yet an adulteress, according to the love of the LORD toward the children of Israel, who look to other gods, and love flagons of wine.
Go yet, love a woman beloved of her friend, yet an adulteress—God commands Hosea to take back Gomer after her adultery, mirroring Yahweh's relentless love for wayward Israel. According to the love of the LORD (כְּאַהֲבַת יְהוָה)—the comparison is explicit: Hosea's painful redemption of his unfaithful wife pictures God's covenant love (אַהֲבָה, ahavah). Who look to other gods, and love flagons of wine (אֲשִׁשֵׁי עֲנָבִים)—raisin cakes were used in fertility cult worship. Israel traded Yahweh for sensual idolatry, yet God pursues them still. This chapter prophesies Israel's long exile (v.4) followed by restoration and return to 'David their king' (v.5)—Messiah.
Historical Context
Hosea received this command to redeem Gomer from slavery/prostitution during the later phase of his ministry, after Israel's persistent covenant violations had made judgment certain. The parallel between Hosea buying back his unfaithful wife and God's redemptive love for Israel despite their adultery with 'flagons of wine' (associated with Baal fertility rituals) provided a living embodiment of divine grace. This prophetic sign-act occurred during the chaotic years following Jeroboam II's death (753 BC), when Israel lurched between Egyptian and Assyrian alliances while the priesthood and monarchy had thoroughly corrupted worship, yet God's covenant love (hesed) remained steadfast.
Questions for Reflection
How does Hosea 3:1 deepen your understanding of God's character, particularly His holiness, justice, and mercy?
What specific attitudes, thought patterns, or behaviors does this verse call you to examine and change in light of the gospel?
How does this passage point forward to Christ and His redemptive work, and how should that shape your worship and obedience?
Analysis & Commentary
Go yet, love a woman beloved of her friend, yet an adulteress—God commands Hosea to take back Gomer after her adultery, mirroring Yahweh's relentless love for wayward Israel. According to the love of the LORD (כְּאַהֲבַת יְהוָה)—the comparison is explicit: Hosea's painful redemption of his unfaithful wife pictures God's covenant love (אַהֲבָה, ahavah). Who look to other gods, and love flagons of wine (אֲשִׁשֵׁי עֲנָבִים)—raisin cakes were used in fertility cult worship. Israel traded Yahweh for sensual idolatry, yet God pursues them still. This chapter prophesies Israel's long exile (v.4) followed by restoration and return to 'David their king' (v.5)—Messiah.