Hosea – Chapter 11

Old Testament12 Verses

1As the morning passeth, so hath the king of Israel passed away. Because Israel was a child, and I loved him: and I called my son out of Egypt.

2As they called them, they went away from before their face: they offered victims to Baalim, and sacrificed to idols.

3And I was like a foster father to Ephraim, I carried them in my arms: and they knew not that I healed them.

4I will draw them with the cords of Adam, with the bands of love: and I will be to them as one that taketh off the yoke on their jaws: and I put his meat to him that he might eat.

5He shall not return into the land of Egypt, but the Assyrian shall be his king: because they would not be converted.

6The sword hath begun in his cities, and it shall consume his chosen men, and shall devour their heads.

7And my people shall long for my return: but a yoke shall be put upon them together, which shall not be taken off.

8How shall I deal with thee, O Ephraim, shall I protect thee, O Israel? how shall I make thee as Adama, shall I set thee as Seboim? my heart is turned within me, my repentance is stirred up.

9I will not execute the fierceness of my wrath: I will not return to destroy Ephraim: because I am God, and not man: the holy one in the midst of thee, and I will not enter into the city.

10They shall walk after the Lord, he shall roar as a lion: because he shall roar, and the children of the sea shall fear.

11And they shall fly away like a bird out of Egypt, and like a dove out of the land of the Assyrians: and I will place them in their own houses, saith the Lord.

12Ephraim hath compassed me about with denials, and the house of Israel with deceit: but Juda went down as a witness with God, and is faithful with the saints.

Reflection for Today

In Hosea Chapter 11, we encounter the continuing revelation of God's faithful love despite Israel's unfaithfulness. The Catholic Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, has always treasured these sacred texts. Hosea's marriage symbolizes God's covenant love (CIC 1611). The central message—God's love is steadfast and merciful—speaks to believers in every age.

The Magisterium teaches that Scripture must be interpreted in light of the whole of revelation and the Church's living Tradition. The Catechism emphasizes that "the task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God has been entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone" (CIC 85). This does not limit our engagement with Scripture but ensures its proper understanding.

As you reflect on this chapter, consider how its message applies to your life today. The Word of God is living and active, capable of transforming hearts and renewing minds. Through prayer and meditation, allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you through these ancient yet ever-new words.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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