Hosea 6:1

Authorized King James Version

Come, and let us return unto the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְכוּ֙

H1980

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

וְנָשׁ֣וּבָה

H7725

and let us return

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

יְהוָ֔ה

H3068

unto the LORD

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

כִּ֛י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

ה֥וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

טָרָ֖ף

H2963

for he hath torn

to pluck off or pull to pieces; causatively to supply with food (as in morsels)

וְיִרְפָּאֵ֑נוּ

H7495

and he will heal

properly, to mend (by stitching), i.e., (figuratively) to cure

יַ֖ךְ

H5221

us he hath smitten

to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

#10

וְיַחְבְּשֵֽׁנוּ׃

H2280

and he will bind us up

to wrap firmly (especially a turban, compress, or saddle); figuratively, to stop, to rule

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hosea, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout Hosea.

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

How does this verse's literary context within Hosea chapter 6 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
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?