King James Version

What Does Hosea 10:1 Mean?

“Israel is an empty vine, he bringeth forth fruit unto himself: according to the multitude of his fruit he hath increased the altars; according to the goodness of his land they have made goodly images. an: or, a vine emptying the fruit which it giveth images: Heb. statues, or, standing images”

Context

Israel is an empty vine, he bringeth forth fruit unto himself: according to the multitude of his fruit he hath increased the altars; according to the goodness of his land they have made goodly images. an: or, a vine emptying the fruit which it giveth images: Heb. statues, or, standing images

Their heart is divided; now shall they be found faulty: he shall break down their altars, he shall spoil their images. Their heart: or, He hath divided their heart break: Heb. behead images: Heb. statues, or, standing images

For now they shall say, We have no king, because we feared not the LORD; what then should a king do to us?

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

X. (1) **Empty** in the English version is wrong, being inconsistent with what follows. (Comp. LXX. and Vulg.) Read *luxuriant.* The metaphors of the vintage (comp. also Genesis 49:22, and *Introduction* to Hosea 9) are still prevalent in the mind of the prophet. Wünsche has powerfully illustrated this wild strong growth of Israel as compared with Judah. Joash prevailed over Amaziah, and plundered Jerusalem (2Kings 14:12-14). Jeroboam II. extended his power as far as Hamath (2Kings 14:23-25). The kingdom had resisted the attacks of Syria, and had become insolent as well as idolatrous. The last clause should be rendered, *The more abundant his fruit, the more he increased altars; the fairer his land, the fairer the Baal-pillars.* On “Baal-pillars,” see W. R. Smith, *Old Testament in the Jewish Church,* pp. 248, 425. (Comp. 9:1 and 2:5.) Misapprehending the cause of their temporal prosperity, and wilfully ignoring Jehovah’s forbearance and love, they attributed their mercies to the grace of Baal, and multiplied idolatrous shrines (see Romans 2:4.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Hosea. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Hosea 10:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.