King James Version
What Does Hosea 5:1 Mean?
“Hear ye this, O priests; and hearken, ye house of Israel; and give ye ear, O house of the king; for judgment is toward you, because ye have been a snare on Mizpah, and a net spread upon Tabor.”
Context
1
Hear ye this, O priests; and hearken, ye house of Israel; and give ye ear, O house of the king; for judgment is toward you, because ye have been a snare on Mizpah, and a net spread upon Tabor.
2
And the revolters are profound to make slaughter, though I have been a rebuker of them all. though: or, and a rebuker: Heb. a correction
3
I know Ephraim, and Israel is not hid from me: for now, O Ephraim, thou committest whoredom, and Israel is defiled.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(1) **House of the king** refers to his following on both sides of the Jordan—Mizpah on the east side, in Gilead, and Tabor on the west. They are singled out as being military strongholds, where the princes of the royal house, with the apostate priests, exercised their deadly hold upon the people, waylaying them, as birds and beasts are snared in the mountains of prey. (Comp. Hosea 6:8-9.)
**Judgment is toward you.—**More accurately, *is* *meant for you.*
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 5:1 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 5:1
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge