Hosea 5:6

Authorized King James Version

They shall go with their flocks and with their herds to seek the LORD; but they shall not find him; he hath withdrawn himself from them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בְּצֹאנָ֣ם

H6629

with their flocks

a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)

וּבִבְקָרָ֗ם

H1241

and with their herds

a beeve or an animal of the ox family of either gender (as used for plowing); collectively, a herd

יֵֽלְכ֛וּ

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

לְבַקֵּ֥שׁ

H1245

to seek

to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

יְהוָ֖ה

H3068

the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִמְצָ֑אוּ

H4672

but they shall not find

properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present

חָלַ֖ץ

H2502

him he hath withdrawn

to pull off; hence (intensively) to strip, (reflexive) to depart; by implication, to deliver, equip (for fight); present, strengthen

#10

מֵהֶֽם׃

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Hosea. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within Hosea chapter 5 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?