King James Version
What Does Hosea 12:5 Mean?
“Even the LORD God of hosts; the LORD is his memorial.”
Context
3
He took his brother by the heel in the womb, and by his strength he had power with God: had: Heb. was a prince, or, behaved himself princely
4
Yea, he had power over the angel, and prevailed: he wept, and made supplication unto him: he found him in Bethel, and there he spake with us;
5
Even the LORD God of hosts; the LORD is his memorial.
6
Therefore turn thou to thy God: keep mercy and judgment, and wait on thy God continually.
7
He is a merchant, the balances of deceit are in his hand: he loveth to oppress. a merchant: or, Canaan oppress: or, deceive
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(5) **Lord God of hosts.—**See Cheyne’s *Isaiah,* vol. 1, pp. 11, 12, and Nowack’s commentary on this passage. Probably the hosts were the stars which were conceived of as celestial spirits standing upon or above Jehovah’s throne in Micaiah’s vision, on the right hand and on the left (1Kings 22:19). These are to be identified, in all probability, with the sons of God (Genesis 6:2), described in Job 1:6 as presenting themselves in council before Jehovah. In Psalm 103:21 they are described as God’s ministers; also in Psalm 104:4, quoted in Hebrews 1:7.
**His memorial—***i.e.*, his name. (See Notes on Exodus 3:15; Exodus 6:3.) Jehovah—*i.e.*, the self-existent One who nevertheless came into personal relations with Israel.
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 12:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Hosea 12:5
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge