King James Version

What Does Hosea 13:11 Mean?

“I gave thee a king in mine anger, and took him away in my wrath.”

Context

O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself; but in me is thine help. is: Heb. in thy help

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?

I gave thee a king in mine anger, and took him away in my wrath.

The iniquity of Ephraim is bound up; his sin is hid.

The sorrows of a travailing woman shall come upon him: he is an unwise son; for he should not stay long in the place of the breaking forth of children. long: Heb. a time

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **Gave . . . Took.**—The past tenses should be present: “I give . . .” “take away.” The whole succession of Israelite kings, who generation after generation had been taken away, some by violent death, would close with Hoshea, who was to disappear as “a fragment on a stormy sea” (Hosea 10:7).

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 13:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.