Hosea
Old Testament • Book #28
God's faithful love for unfaithful Israel, illustrated through Hosea's marriage.
"The word of the Lord that came to Hosea the son of Beeri, in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of Israel."
— Hosea 1:1
About the Book of Hosea
Hosea's marriage to the unfaithful Gomer becomes a living parable of God's relationship with Israel. Despite being repeatedly betrayed, both Hosea and God pursue their unfaithful beloved with relentless love. It's one of the most emotionally powerful books in the Bible, revealing the depth of God's heartbreak — and the even greater depth of His love.
Background
- Author
- Hosea
- Date Written
- ~755–715 BC
- Genre
- Minor Prophet
Key Themes in Hosea
- ▸God's relentless love
- ▸Spiritual unfaithfulness as adultery
- ▸Judgment tempered by mercy
- ▸The call to return
- ▸Covenant loyalty
Famous Verses from Hosea
“For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.”
— Hosea 6:6
“I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him.”
— Hosea 14:4
“And I will betroth thee unto me for ever; yea, I will betroth thee unto me in righteousness, and in judgment, and in lovingkindness, and in mercies.”
— Hosea 2:19-20
“Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the Lord.”
— Hosea 10:12
“I drew them with cords of a man, with bands of love.”
— Hosea 11:4
Chapters in Hosea
Related to Hosea
Books that share themes, history, or theological connections.
Explore More Old Testament
Include Hosea in Your Reading Plan
Read Hosea as part of our free 365-day Bible reading plan. Track your progress and never miss a day.
Start Your Reading Plan →