Hosea 8:14

Authorized King James Version

For Israel hath forgotten his Maker, and buildeth temples; and Judah hath multiplied fenced cities: but I will send a fire upon his cities, and it shall devour the palaces thereof.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּשְׁכַּ֨ח
H7911
hath forgotten
to mislay, i.e., to be oblivious of, from want of memory or attention
#2
יִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל
H3478
For Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#3
אֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
עֹשֵׂ֗הוּ
H6213
his Maker
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#5
וַיִּ֙בֶן֙
H1129
and buildeth
to build (literally and figuratively)
#6
הֵֽיכָל֔וֹת
H1964
temples
a large public building, such as a palace or temple
#7
וִֽיהוּדָ֕ה
H3063
and Judah
jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory
#8
הִרְבָּ֖ה
H7235
hath multiplied
to increase (in whatever respect)
#9
בְּעָרָ֔יו
H5892
cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#10
בְּצֻר֑וֹת
H1219
fenced
to gather grapes; also to be isolated (i.e., inaccessible by height or fortification)
#11
וְשִׁלַּחְתִּי
H7971
but I will send
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#12
אֵ֣שׁ
H784
a fire
fire (literally or figuratively)
#13
בְּעָרָ֔יו
H5892
cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#14
וְאָכְלָ֖ה
H398
and it shall devour
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#15
אַרְמְנֹתֶֽיהָ׃
H759
the palaces
a citadel (from its height)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hosea, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection