Hosea 11:1

CHAPTER XI

This chapter gives a very pathetic representation of God's

tender and affectionate regard for Israel, by metaphors

chiefly borrowed from the conduct of mothers toward their

tender offspring. From this, occasion is taken to reflect on

their ungrateful return to the Divine goodness, and to denounce

against them the judgments of the Almighty, 1-7.

But suddenly and unexpectedly the prospect changes. Beams of

mercy break frown the clouds just now fraught with vengeance.

God, to speak in the language of men, feels the relentings of a

tender parent; his bowels yearn; his mercy triumphs; his

rebellious child shall yet be pardoned. As the lion of the

tribe of Judah, he will employ his power to save his people, he

will call his children from the land of their captivity; and,

as doves, they will fly to him, a faithful and a holy people,

8-12.

NOTES ON CHAP. XI

Verse Hosea 11:1. When Israel was a child] In the infancy of his political existence.

I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt.] Where he was greatly oppressed; and in this I gave the proof of my love. I preserved my people in their affliction there, and brought them safely out of it.