Hosea 5:7

Authorized King James Version

They have dealt treacherously against the LORD: for they have begotten strange children: now shall a month devour them with their portions.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בַּיהוָ֣ה
against the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#2
בָּגָ֔דוּ
They have dealt treacherously
to cover (with a garment); figuratively, to act covertly; by implication, to pillage
#3
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#4
בָנִ֥ים
children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#5
זָרִ֖ים
strange
to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery
#6
יָלָ֑דוּ
for they have begotten
to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
#7
עַתָּ֛ה
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
#8
יֹאכְלֵ֥ם
devour
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#9
חֹ֖דֶשׁ
now shall a month
the new moon; by implication, a month
#10
אֶת
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
#11
חֶלְקֵיהֶֽם׃
them with their portions
properly, smoothness (of the tongue)

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

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 salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection