Translations
Original
Notes
a prostitute: Some find it hard to believe that God would tell a prophet to marry a prostitute. Because of this, many interpret this story symbolically. Early church members often thought the marriage did not actually happen. They saw it as an allegory, with Hosea representing the Lord and Gomer representing Israel.
Today, most believe the marriage was real, but they have different views on Gomer’s job before marriage. Some think Gomer was a regular prostitute, while others believe she was a sacred prostitute in Canaanite fertility worship. Others think Gomer was a young woman who had not yet engaged in illicit sexual activity, but God knew she was likely to commit adultery and prostitution.
This section describes a small part of the prophet's life, focusing on his troubled marriage. It highlights God's difficult relationship with Israel, his chosen people.
Events
- Prophecies of Hoseac. 785 BC
People
Diblaim: Father of Gomer, Hosea's wife Gomer: Hosea's wife, a promiscuous woman
Glossary
Topics
Backsliders: Backsliding of Israel Diblaim: Father of Hosea's Wife Gomer: Wife (Concubine?) of Hosea Name: Symbolical Prophecies Concerning Israel: Prophecies Concerning of Captivity, Famine, and Judgments Prophets: Frequently in Their Actions Were Made Signs to the People Symbols and Similitudes: Marrying a Whore Women: Gomer, the Adulterous Wife of Hosea