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Hosea 12

World English Bible

WEB

1Ephraim feeds on wind, and chases the east wind. He continually multiplies lies and desolation. They make a covenant with Assyria, and oil is carried into Egypt. 2Yahweh also has a controversy with Judah, and will punish Jacob according to his ways; according to his deeds he will repay him. 3In the womb he took his brother by the heel, and in his manhood he contended with God. 4Indeed, he struggled with the angel, and prevailed; he wept, and made supplication to him. He found him at Bethel, and there he spoke with us— 5even Yahweh, the God of Armies. Yahweh is his name of renown! 6Therefore turn to your God. Keep kindness and justice, and wait continually for your God. 7A merchant has dishonest scales in his hand. He loves to defraud. 8Ephraim said, “Surely I have become rich. I have found myself wealth. In all my wealth they won’t find in me any iniquity that is sin.” 9“But I am Yahweh your God from the land of Egypt. I will yet again make you dwell in tents, as in the days of the solemn feast. 10I have also spoken to the prophets, and I have multiplied visions; and by the ministry of the prophets I have used parables. 11If Gilead is wicked, surely they are worthless. In Gilgal they sacrifice bulls. Indeed, their altars are like heaps in the furrows of the field. 12Jacob fled into the country of Aram. Israel served to get a wife. For a wife he tended flocks and herds. 13By a prophet Yahweh brought Israel up out of Egypt, and by a prophet he was preserved. 14Ephraim has bitterly provoked anger. Therefore his blood will be left on him, and his Lord will repay his contempt.

World English Bible, 2020 stable text edition. Public domain; “World English Bible” is a trademark of eBible.org. eBible.org

Overview

Hosea Chapter 12 presents a powerful message from God through the prophet Hosea, focusing on the themes of Israel's unfaithfulness and the call to repentance. The chapter begins by highlighting the deceitful behavior of #Ephraim, representing the northern kingdom of Israel, who is likened to a merchant whose scales are false and who loves to oppress others (Hosea 12:1). This imagery emphasizes the corruption and injustice prevalent in Israel, as they have strayed from God's ways and engaged in dishonest practices. The chapter serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of integrity in their dealings with one another.

The text then recalls the history of Jacob, who struggled with God and prevailed (Hosea 12:3-4). This reference to #Jacob serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, illustrating that despite their failures, God remains faithful. The chapter concludes with a call to return to the Lord, urging the people to seek righteousness and love, as God desires a genuine relationship with them (Hosea 12:6). The final verses also warn of impending judgment due to their idolatry and reliance on foreign powers, emphasizing that true security and salvation can only be found in the Lord. Overall, Hosea 12 encapsulates the tension between God's judgment and His desire for reconciliation with His people.

Study

13 of 14 dimensions

Referenced by

  1. Genesis 29:20v12Genesis 29:20 describes Jacob serving seven years for Rachel, which is referenced in Hosea 12:12, highlighting Jacob's dedication and the theme of service for love.
  2. Genesis 32:24-30v3Genesis 32:24-30 describes Jacob wrestling with a man, later identified as God. Hosea 12:3-4 reflects on this event, emphasizing Jacob's struggle and his seeking of God's blessing.

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