Hosea 4:2

Authorized King James Version

By swearing, and lying, and killing, and stealing, and committing adultery, they break out, and blood toucheth blood.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אָלֹ֣ה

H422

By swearing

properly, to adjure, i.e., (usually in a bad sense) imprecate

וְכַחֵ֔שׁ

H3584

and lying

to be untrue, in word (to lie, feign, disown) or deed (to disappoint, fail, cringe)

וְרָצֹ֥חַ

H7523

and killing

properly, to dash in pieces, i.e., kill (a human being), especially to murder

וְגָנֹ֖ב

H1589

and stealing

to thieve (literally or figuratively); by implication, to deceive

וְנָאֹ֑ף

H5003

and committing adultery

to commit adultery; figuratively, to apostatize

פָּרָ֕צוּ

H6555

they break out

to break out (in many applications, direct and indirect, literal and figurative)

בְּדָמִ֖ים

H1818

and blood

blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe

בְּדָמִ֖ים

H1818

and blood

blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe

נָגָֽעוּ׃

H5060

toucheth

properly, to touch, i.e., lay the hand upon (for any purpose; euphemistically, to lie with a woman); by implication, to reach (figuratively, to arrive

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hosea, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?