King James Version

What Does Hosea 12:13 Mean?

“And by a prophet the LORD brought Israel out of Egypt, and by a prophet was he preserved.”

Context

Is there iniquity in Gilead? surely they are vanity: they sacrifice bullocks in Gilgal; yea, their altars are as heaps in the furrows of the fields.

And Jacob fled into the country of Syria, and Israel served for a wife, and for a wife he kept sheep.

And by a prophet the LORD brought Israel out of Egypt, and by a prophet was he preserved.

Ephraim provoked him to anger most bitterly: therefore shall he leave his blood upon him, and his reproach shall his Lord return unto him. most: Heb. with bitternesses blood: Heb. bloods

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(13) **A prophet.**—Moses is here referred to, and there is, perhaps, a hint that the Lord would yet again save Israel from worse than Egyptian bondage by the words and warnings of a prophet.

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 12:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.