King James Version
What Does Hosea 13:10 Mean?
“I will be thy king: where is any other that may save thee in all thy cities? and thy judges of whom thou saidst, Give me a king and princes? I will: rather, Where is thy king?”
Context
8
I will meet them as a bear that is bereaved of her whelps, and will rend the caul of their heart, and there will I devour them like a lion: the wild beast shall tear them. wild: Heb. beast of the field
9
O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself; but in me is thine help. is: Heb. in thy help
10
I will be thy king: where is any other that may save thee in all thy cities? and thy judges of whom thou saidst, Give me a king and princes? I will: rather, Where is thy king?
11
I gave thee a king in mine anger, and took him away in my wrath.
12
The iniquity of Ephraim is bound up; his sin is hid.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) The rendering should be,* Where, pray, is thy king, that he may save thee?* &c. The original demand for a king who should be a visible token to Israel of protection against their surrounding foes was adverse to the true spirit of the kingdom of God upon earth, and, though granted, proved to the united kingdom, and afterwards to the kingdom of Israel, an age-long curse. Probably the special reference here is to the latter—the erection of the Ten Tribes into a separate monarchy.
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 13:10 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 13:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge