Hosea 3:2

So I bought her for fifteen shekels of silver and a homer and a lethech of barley.

Study Bible

So I bought her
The act of buying here is significant in the context of Hosea's relationship with Gomer, symbolizing God's redemptive love for Israel. The Hebrew word used for "bought" is "קָנָה" (qanah), which can mean to acquire or purchase. This transaction is not merely a financial one but a profound act of love and redemption. Hosea's purchase of Gomer reflects God's willingness to redeem His people despite their unfaithfulness. It is a powerful illustration of grace, where God takes the initiative to restore a broken relationship.

for fifteen shekels of silver
The mention of "fifteen shekels of silver" is significant in understanding the value and cost of redemption. In ancient times, the price of a slave was typically thirty shekels of silver (Exodus 21:32). The fact that Hosea pays only fifteen shekels, along with barley, suggests that Gomer's value had diminished due to her lifestyle. This reflects Israel's spiritual state, having devalued themselves through idolatry. Yet, God still sees worth in them, just as Hosea sees worth in Gomer. The silver symbolizes the preciousness of redemption, pointing to the ultimate price paid by Christ for humanity's salvation.

and a homer and a lethek of barley
Barley was considered a less valuable grain compared to wheat, often associated with the poor or with offerings of lesser value (Judges 7:13, 2 Kings 4:42). The use of barley in this transaction underscores the humility and lowliness of Gomer's situation, as well as Israel's spiritual poverty. The specific measures, "a homer and a lethek," indicate a substantial amount, suggesting that Hosea's redemption of Gomer was costly and sacrificial. This mirrors the sacrificial nature of God's love, willing to give abundantly to restore His people. The combination of silver and barley in the purchase price highlights the completeness of redemption, encompassing both spiritual and material aspects.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Gomer
Hosea's wife, who is unfaithful to him. Her actions symbolize Israel's unfaithfulness to God through idolatry and sin.

3. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, often depicted as unfaithful to God, similar to Gomer's unfaithfulness to Hosea.

4. Fifteen shekels of silver and a homer and a lethek of barley
The price Hosea paid to redeem Gomer, symbolizing the cost of redemption and God's willingness to restore Israel despite their unfaithfulness.

5. Redemption
The act of buying back or restoring, which is central to the account of Hosea and Gomer, and reflects God's redemptive plan for His people.

Teaching Points

Understanding Redemption
Hosea's purchase of Gomer illustrates the concept of redemption. Just as Hosea redeemed Gomer, God redeems us through Christ. Reflect on the cost of redemption and God's love for us.

Faithfulness in Relationships
Hosea's commitment to Gomer despite her unfaithfulness challenges us to consider our own relationships. Are we willing to forgive and restore those who have wronged us?

God's Unfailing Love
The account of Hosea and Gomer is a powerful reminder of God's unwavering love for His people. Even when we stray, God seeks to restore us.

The Cost of Sin
Gomer's situation reflects the consequences of sin and unfaithfulness. Consider how sin affects our relationship with God and others, and the steps needed for restoration.

Living as Redeemed People
As those who have been bought with a price, we are called to live lives that reflect our redemption. How does this truth impact our daily actions and decisions?

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the act of Hosea buying Gomer teach us about the nature of God's love and redemption?

2. How can Hosea's faithfulness to Gomer inspire us in our personal relationships, especially when faced with betrayal or unfaithfulness?

3. In what ways does the price Hosea paid for Gomer reflect the cost of our own redemption through Christ?

4. How does the account of Hosea and Gomer challenge us to examine our own faithfulness to God?

5. What practical steps can we take to live as people who have been redeemed, and how can this influence our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:32
Discusses the value of a slave, providing context for the price Hosea paid for Gomer, highlighting the theme of redemption.

Leviticus 27:16
Offers insight into the valuation of land and produce, which can be related to the barley mentioned in Hosea 3:2, emphasizing the sacrificial nature of Hosea's act.

1 Corinthians 6:20
Speaks of believers being bought with a price, drawing a parallel to the redemption theme in Hosea.

Isaiah 54:5-8
Describes God's enduring love for Israel, similar to Hosea's love for Gomer, despite their unfaithfulness.