Hosea 8:12

Authorized King James Version

I have written to him the great things of my law, but they were counted as a strange thing.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ל֔וֹ
H3789
I have written
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
#2
ל֔וֹ
H3789
I have written
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
#3
רֻבֵּ֖ו
H7230
to him the great things
abundance (in any respect)
#4
תּֽוֹרָתִ֑י
H8451
of my law
a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch
#5
כְּמוֹ
H3644
as, thus, so
#6
זָ֖ר
H2114
as a strange
to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery
#7
נֶחְשָֽׁבוּ׃
H2803
but they were counted
properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hosea, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection