Hosea 7:16
They return, but not to the most High: they are like a deceitful bow: their princes shall fall by the sword for the rage of their tongue: this shall be their derision in the land of Egypt.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Israel's repeated attempts at reform without genuine repentance characterize their history. The 'deceitful bow' perfectly describes unreliable alliance partner—Israel oscillating between Egypt and Assyria, trusted by neither. Hoshea's appeal to Egypt while vassal to Assyria (2 Kings 17:4) proved disastrous. The 'rage of their tongue' may reference blasphemous arrogance or diplomatic deception. That Egypt—ancient oppressor—mocks them demonstrates complete reversal: from delivered people to derided nation. Archaeologically, Israel disappears from historical record after 722 BC—ultimate derision. This demonstrates that turning without repenting to God leads nowhere productive.
Questions for Reflection
- How does 'returning but not to the Most High' describe superficial reformation that changes behavior without transforming heart?
- What makes a person or community a 'deceitful bow'—unreliable, failing when needed—and how does Christ make us trustworthy?
Analysis & Commentary
Returning to nothing: 'They return, but not to the most High: they are like a deceitful bow: their princes shall fall by the sword for the rage of their tongue: this shall be their derision in the land of Egypt.' They turn (שׁוּב, shuv) but not עַל (al, to/toward) Most High—turning without destination, reform without repentance. The simile: like רְמִיָּה קֶשֶׁת (remiyyah qeshet, deceitful/slack bow)—weapon failing when needed, arrow missing mark. Leaders fall by sword because of tongue's rage (זַעַם לְשׁוֹנָם, za'am leshonam)—arrogant speech against God or deceitful diplomacy. Egypt mocks them—those whose help they sought become their scoffers. This demonstrates futility of superficial change. Only Spirit-wrought transformation truly turns us to God (Acts 26:18).