Hosea 8:5

Authorized King James Version

Thy calf, O Samaria, hath cast thee off; mine anger is kindled against them: how long will it be ere they attain to innocency?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
זָנַח֙
hath cast
reject, forsake, fail
#2
עֶגְלֵ֣ךְ
Thy calf
a (male) calf (as frisking round), especially one nearly grown (i.e., a steer)
#3
שֹֽׁמְר֔וֹן
O Samaria
shomeron, a place in palestine
#4
חָרָ֥ה
is kindled
to glow or grow warm; figuratively (usually) to blaze up, of anger, zeal, jealousy
#5
אַפִּ֖י
thee off mine anger
properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire
#6
בָּ֑ם
H0
#7
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#8
מָתַ֕י
properly, extent (of time); but used only adverbially (especially with other particle prefixes), when (either relative or interrogative)
#9
לֹ֥א
against them how long will it be ere
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#10
יוּכְל֖וּ
they attain
to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)
#11
נִקָּיֹֽן׃
to innocency
clearness (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Hosea. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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