Old Testament
Hosea 10:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God is reminding Israel of their long history of sin, tracing it back to the days of Gibeah, a city known for its wickedness.
- Author
- Hosea the prophet
- Written
- Around 750 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- The northern kingdom of Israel
Israel, you have been sinning ever since the days of Gibeah. There you took your stand, and the battle against those wicked people at Gibeah didn't catch up with them.
O Israel, thou hast sinned from the days of Gibeah: there they stood: the battle in Gibeah against the children of iniquity did not overtake them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is reminding Israel of their long history of sin, tracing it back to the days of Gibeah, a city known for its wickedness. The reference to Gibeah highlights a time when the people of Israel stood firm in their sinful ways, and despite the consequences of their actions, they did not face immediate judgment. This serves as a warning that their persistent sinfulness has deep roots and that they have not learned from their past mistakes. The mention of the battle suggests that even when faced with challenges, the people remained unrepentant and continued in their wrongdoing. This verse emphasizes the need for self-reflection and repentance, as ignoring past sins can lead to ongoing consequences.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Hosea 10:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and recognize patterns of sin that may have persisted over time. It serves as a reminder to confront our past mistakes and seek genuine repentance. By acknowledging our wrongdoings, we can break free from cycles of sin and strive for a more righteous path.
Curated for this public verse page. Hosea Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Hosea 10:9 mean?
Hosea 10:9 highlights Israel's long-standing pattern of sin, tracing it back to the wickedness of Gibeah. It serves as a reminder that despite facing challenges, the people remained unrepentant and continued in their wrongdoing.
What is the significance of Gibeah in Hosea 10:9?
Gibeah is significant in Hosea 10:9 as it represents a historical point of moral failure for Israel. The verse recalls a time when the people stood firm in their sins, illustrating the deep roots of their unrepentant behavior.
What does the phrase 'children of iniquity' mean in Hosea 10:9?
The phrase 'children of iniquity' refers to those who engage in sinful behavior and wrongdoing. In this context, it highlights the moral corruption present in Israel during the time of Gibeah.
What is the main message of Hosea 10:9?
The main message of Hosea 10:9 is a call for self-reflection and acknowledgment of past sins. It warns that ignoring historical patterns of wrongdoing can lead to ongoing consequences.

The Book of Hosea
Hosea 1: Hosea Takes Gomer
The word of the LORD comes to Hosea and commands him to take a wife of whoredoms because the land has committed great whoredom against the LORD. Hosea takes Gomer the daughter of Diblaim, and she bears a son. The LORD tells him to name the child Jezreel, declaring that He will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu and cause the kingdom of Israel to cease. He says He will break the bow of Israel in the valley of Jezreel.
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