Hosea 7:5
In the day of our king the princes have made him sick with bottles of wine; he stretched out his hand with scorners.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Royal feasts in ancient Near East were occasions for both celebration and political maneuvering. The account of Zimri assassinating Elah 'drinking himself drunk' at Tirzah (1 Kings 16:8-10) provides biblical parallel. Similar to Belshazzar's feast interrupted by handwriting on wall (Daniel 5). The atmosphere of drunken revelry lowered defenses, enabling conspirators to strike or manipulate. The reference to king joining 'scorners' suggests alliance with cynical, ungodly advisors rather than wise counselors (Psalm 1:1). Archaeological evidence shows luxury and excess characterizing Israel's ruling class during this period, confirming prophetic critiques. This demonstrates that leaders abandoning sobriety and wisdom for indulgence and foolish company court disaster.
Questions for Reflection
- How does substance abuse and intoxication compromise judgment and enable ungodly influences?
- What does the king's alliance with 'scorners' teach about the importance of wise counsel versus foolish companionship in leadership?
Analysis & Commentary
Drunken revelry and conspiracy: 'In the day of our king the princes have made him sick with bottles of wine; he stretched out his hand with scorners.' Royal celebrations become occasions for conspiracy. The king made sick (הֶחֱלוּ מֵחֲמַת, hechelu mechamat—literally 'made sick from heat of') wine, extending hand (מָשַׁךְ יָדוֹ, mashakh yado) with לֹצְצִים (lotsetsim, scorners/mockers). Drunkenness facilitates treachery; impaired judgment enables manipulation. Proverbs 20:1, 31:4-5 warn leaders against wine clouding judgment. When rulers join mockers, wisdom departs and destruction approaches. Only Christ our King never falters in judgment, righteousness, or wisdom (Isaiah 11:2-5).