King James Version

What Does Hosea 12:5 Mean?

Hosea 12:5 in the King James Version says “Even the LORD God of hosts; the LORD is his memorial. — study this verse from Hosea chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Even the LORD God of hosts; the LORD is his memorial.

Hosea 12:5 · KJV


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

KJV Study Commentary
YHWH of hosts: 'Even the LORD God of hosts; the LORD is his memorial.' The declaration: וַיהוָה אֱלֹהֵי הַצְּבָאוֹת יְהוָה זִכְרוֹ (vaYHWH Elohei hatsevaot YHWH zikhro—YHWH God of hosts, YHWH His memorial/name). This emphasizes covenant name (YHWH) and sovereign power (hosts). The זֵכֶר (zeker, memorial/name) is YHWH—His character revealed through covenant history. This demonstrates that God's identity is bound to His redemptive acts and covenant faithfulness. Only through Christ is God's name fully revealed (John 17:6).

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Historical & Cultural Context

The title 'YHWH God of hosts' emphasizes divine sovereignty over armies—both heavenly (angels) and earthly (nations). Used extensively in prophets, it stresses God's power to execute judgment and deliverance. The 'memorial' language recalls Exodus 3:15: 'this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.' Hosea reminds Israel: the God who spoke to Jacob is YHWH sovereign over all powers. Archaeological inscriptions show 'YHWH of hosts' (or 'YHWH Sabaoth') in ancient Hebrew texts. This demonstrates that God's revealed name connects His character, power, and covenant relationship.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does the title 'YHWH God of hosts' reveal about divine sovereignty over all powers?
  2. How does 'YHWH is his memorial' emphasize God's covenant faithfulness across generations?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
יְהוָ֖ה1 of 5

Even the LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֱלֹהֵ֣י2 of 5

God

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

הַצְּבָא֑וֹת3 of 5

of hosts

H6635

a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci

יְהוָ֖ה4 of 5

Even the LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

זִכְרֽוֹ׃5 of 5

is his memorial

H2143

a memento, abstractly recollection (rarely if ever); by implication, commemoration


Study Guide

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 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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