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Book of Hosea - Chapter 5 - Verse 1

5:1
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.

Meaning

In this verse, the prophet addresses the priests, the house of Israel, and the house of the king, warning them of the impending judgment that awaits them. The mention of Mizpah and Tabor, two prominent locations in ancient Israel, symbolizes the ways in which the leaders have entrapped and ensnared the people. Mizpah was known as a place of assembly and judgment, indicating that the priests have misled the people with false teachings and decisions. Tabor, on the other hand, was a strategic location for military activities, suggesting that the house of the king has used its power to oppress and manipulate the people. The message here is that the leaders have failed in their responsibilities to guide and protect the people, leading to divine judgment upon them. This verse serves as a warning to all leaders to act justly and with integrity, lest they face the consequences of their actions.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Hosea, a stern warning is given to the priests, the house of Israel, and the house of the king. The word "judgment" in this context can be understood as a divine condemnation or punishment for their actions. The mention of Mizpah and Tabor, two locations with historical significance, adds depth to the message. Mizpah was a site of idol worship, while Tabor was associated with deceit and betrayal. The use of these specific locations serves to highlight the sins of the people and the consequences they will face. The call to listen emphasizes the urgency of the situation and the importance of heeding God's warning. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of living in alignment with God's will and the consequences of straying from that path.

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