Hosea
The book of Hosea is often misunderstood. Powerfully blending personal drama and national prophecy, this book uses Hosea’s own marriage to an unfaithful wife as a metaphor for God’s relationship with unfaithful Israel.Though Israel’s history is rife with apostasy and rebellion, Hosea showcases a kind of love that is unconditional. A love that intentionally forgives, even when fairness suggests it shouldn’t have to. Theologically, Hosea does not excuse sin, but it demonstrates that because of His perfect love, God’s justice can exist in tandem with his mercy.
Shrine Prostitution
noun, verb
The term "shrine prostitute" refers to individuals, often women, who engaged in sexual acts as part of pagan worship rituals.
Jezreel Valley
geographical location
The eastern end of the Plain of Esdraelon in northern Israel.
Bethel
/ beth'-el / proper noun
Literally "House of God," a town near the place where Abraham halted and offered sacrifice on his way south from Shechem.
From Judgment to Hope
Walter Brueggeman
Grasping God's Word
Jay Scott Duvall, and Jay Daniel Hayes
Handbook on the Prophets
Robert B. Chisholm