Hosea 1:6

Gomer again conceived and gave birth to a daughter, and the LORD said to Hosea, "Name her Lo-ruhamah, for I will no longer have compassion on the house of Israel, that I should ever forgive them.

Study Bible

Gomer again conceived and gave birth to a daughter
Gomer, the wife of Hosea, symbolizes the unfaithfulness of Israel to God. Her conception and the birth of a daughter represent the continuation of Israel's spiritual adultery. In the cultural context, the birth of a daughter might have been seen as less significant than a son, highlighting the diminished status of Israel in God's eyes due to their unfaithfulness.

and the LORD said to Hosea
The direct communication from the LORD to Hosea underscores the prophetic nature of Hosea's ministry. This divine instruction emphasizes the authority and authenticity of the message Hosea is to deliver. It reflects the intimate relationship between God and His prophets, where God reveals His will and judgments.

Name her Lo-ruhamah
The name "Lo-ruhamah" means "not loved" or "not pitied." In biblical times, names were often symbolic and carried significant meaning. This name serves as a prophetic sign of God's impending judgment on Israel. It indicates a withdrawal of divine mercy and compassion, a stark warning to the nation.

for I will no longer have compassion on the house of Israel
This phrase indicates a turning point in God's relationship with Israel. Historically, Israel had repeatedly turned away from God, despite His continued compassion and mercy. This declaration signifies that the time for repentance is running out, and judgment is imminent. It reflects the covenantal relationship where blessings and curses were contingent on Israel's obedience.

that I should ever forgive them
The statement highlights the severity of Israel's sin and the consequences of their persistent idolatry and rebellion. It connects to the broader biblical theme of God's justice and the necessity of repentance. While God's forgiveness is abundant, it is not unconditional; it requires a genuine turning back to Him. This phrase foreshadows the eventual exile of Israel, serving as a sobering reminder of the cost of unfaithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hosea
A prophet called by God to deliver His message to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. His life and marriage serve as a symbolic representation of God's relationship with Israel.

2. Gomer
Hosea's wife, whose unfaithfulness symbolizes Israel's unfaithfulness to God through idolatry and sin.

3. Lo-ruhamah
The daughter of Hosea and Gomer, whose name means "not loved" or "no mercy." Her name signifies God's impending judgment and withdrawal of compassion from Israel.

4. The House of Israel
Refers to the Northern Kingdom, which had turned away from God and was facing His judgment due to their persistent idolatry and sin.

5. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who communicates His message of judgment through Hosea.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Justice and Mercy
God's decision to withhold compassion from Israel is a response to their persistent sin and unfaithfulness. It serves as a reminder that God's mercy is not to be presumed upon without repentance.

The Consequences of Unfaithfulness
Just as Gomer's unfaithfulness had consequences, so does spiritual unfaithfulness. This passage calls believers to examine their own lives for areas of unfaithfulness to God.

The Hope of Restoration
While this verse speaks of judgment, the broader account of Hosea includes themes of restoration and hope, pointing to God's ultimate desire for reconciliation with His people.

Names as Prophetic Symbols
The naming of Lo-ruhamah serves as a prophetic act, illustrating how God uses tangible symbols to communicate spiritual truths.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the name "Lo-ruhamah" reflect God's message to Israel, and what does it teach us about the consequences of persistent sin?

2. In what ways does the relationship between Hosea and Gomer mirror God's relationship with Israel, and how can this understanding impact our view of God's faithfulness?

3. How can we reconcile the image of God as compassionate and forgiving with His decision to withhold compassion from Israel in this passage?

4. What are some modern-day "idols" or areas of unfaithfulness that might lead to a similar withdrawal of God's favor in our lives?

5. How does the broader account of Hosea, including themes of restoration, encourage us to seek repentance and reconciliation with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:6-7
Highlights God's nature as compassionate and gracious, yet also just, which provides context for understanding His decision to withhold compassion from Israel.

Isaiah 1:18-20
Offers a contrast with God's willingness to forgive and restore those who repent, emphasizing the importance of repentance in receiving God's mercy.

Romans 9:25-26
Paul references Hosea to illustrate God's sovereign choice in extending mercy, showing that God's plans include both judgment and restoration.