HOSEA - AREA
He prophesied in the reign of Jeroboam, but also in the reigns of Uzziah, Jothan, Ahaz, and Hezekiah of Judah.
STRUCTURE
Chapters 1-3 marriage metaphor
4-14 comment of the political and religious affairs of the n. kingdom.
MARRIAGE METAPHOR
- God tells him to marry a whore (Gomer)
- The metaphor implies a covenantal relationship.
- YHWH is the one who provides the grain, but the people were going to get it from other places.
2 Ways
Hosea differs from Amos
- The primary sin of which Israel is accused is Baal worship. Hosea is also concerned about social justice, but it plays a secondary role.
- He fluctuates between judgment and oracles of salvations. If Israel is again reduced to the wilderness, this is also an opportunity for a new beginning. YWHH and Israel would renew their marriages.
Hosea’s Indictment
There is no faithfulness or loyalty, and no knowledge of God in the land. Instead there is swearing, lying, murder, stealing, and adultery.
Covenant and Law in 8:1
“They have broken my covenant and transgressed my law.”
Hosea and Deuteronomy
Both use the exodus as a major point of reference, both speak of the danger of forgetting god, emphasize the love of God, condemn worship in high place.
Priesthood and Cult
not as passionate about reforming the sacrificial cult, but more than Amos was.
Critique of Royal Politics
Unlike amos, Hosea does not dwell on the theme of social injustice. He comments repeatedly however on the political intrigue that racked the kingdom of Israel in the final decades of existence.
What is Hosea’s basic critique of Israel?
His basic critique is that Israel repeatedly looked for political solutions instead of turning to the service of YHWH.
The loving Father (v. 11:8-9)
Heschel
On the one hand, god is portrayed in very human terms as someone who can be overcome by emotion. On the other hand, he is “God and no mortal.” But God can overcome the more destructive emotions of being mean.
Hosea’s Children
- Jezreel - the summer palace that Jehu slaughtered Jezebel.
- No Pity
- Not my people
Characterizations of God
God of love and mercy (as opposed to God of justice to Amos)
Divine Metaphors
Husband and Father
Divine Moods
passion, wounded heart (Hosea 11:1-9)
Hosea Date
Mid 8th century TP III of Assyria on the rise. Israel looking for support (lookin for love in all the wrong places)
Hosea v. Amos
Amos more about social justice, governance, cult
The hinge of Hosea?
Hosea 1:2…Go marry a prostitute.
