Hosea 4:18

Authorized King James Version

Their drink is sour: they have committed whoredom continually: her rulers with shame do love, Give ye.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
סָ֖ר
H5493
is sour
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#2
סָבְאָ֑ם
H5435
Their drink
potation, concretely (wine), or abstractly (carousal)
#3
הִזְנ֔וּ
H2181
continually
to commit adultery (usually of the female, and less often of simple fornication, rarely of involuntary ravishment); figuratively, to commit idolatry (
#4
הִזְנ֔וּ
H2181
continually
to commit adultery (usually of the female, and less often of simple fornication, rarely of involuntary ravishment); figuratively, to commit idolatry (
#5
אָהֲב֥וּ
H157
do love
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#6
הֵב֛וּ
H3051
Give
to give (whether literal or figurative); generally, to put; imperatively (reflexive) come
#7
קָל֖וֹן
H7036
with shame
disgrace; (by implication) the pudenda
#8
מָגִנֶּֽיהָ׃
H4043
her rulers
a shield (i.e., the small one or buckler); figuratively, a protector; also the scaly hide of the crocodile

Analysis

The kingdom of God theme here intersects with the progressive revelation of God's rule from creation to consummation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of development from creation mandate through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment. The phrase emphasizing love fundamental to theology proper, revealing God's essential nature and character and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's reign from creation through the millennial kingdom.

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 kingdom of God particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show patron-client relationships and family loyalty concepts, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection