King James Version

What Does Hosea 6:8 Mean?

“Gilead is a city of them that work iniquity, and is polluted with blood. polluted: or, cunning for”

Context

For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.

But they like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against me. men: or, Adam

Gilead is a city of them that work iniquity, and is polluted with blood. polluted: or, cunning for

And as troops of robbers wait for a man, so the company of priests murder in the way by consent : for they commit lewdness. by: Heb. with one shoulder, or, to Shechem lewdness: or, enormity

I have seen an horrible thing in the house of Israel: there is the whoredom of Ephraim, Israel is defiled.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(8) **Polluted** . . .—More accurately, *betrodden* (or foot-tracked) *with blood.* We infer from Judges 10:17 that there was a town called Gilead east of the Jordan distinct altogether from Mizpah (identified by many with the city of refuge Ramoth-Gilead), and this is confirmed by notices in Eusebius and Cyril. Murder in a “city of refuge” adds to the horror. On the murderous propensities of the Gileadites see 2Kings 15:25.

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 6:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.