Old Testament

Hosea 11:9

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Hosea 11:9, God expresses His decision to hold back His anger towards the people of Ephraim, which represents Israel.

Author
Hosea the prophet
Written
Around 750 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
The northern kingdom of Israel
CBTClear Bible Translation

I will not carry out the fierceness of my anger. I will not return to destroy Ephraim. For I am God, and not man; the Holy One among you, and I will not enter the city.

KJVKing James Version

I will not execute the fierceness of mine anger, I will not return to destroy Ephraim: for I am God, and not man; the Holy One in the midst of thee: and I will not enter into the city.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Hosea 11:9, God expresses His decision to hold back His anger towards the people of Ephraim, which represents Israel. Despite their disobedience and sin, God chooses mercy over destruction. He emphasizes His divine nature, distinguishing Himself from humans who might act out of rage. God is portrayed as the Holy One, present among His people, yet He will not enter the city to bring judgment. This verse highlights God's compassion and willingness to forgive, showing that His love prevails over His anger. It reassures the people that, although they deserve punishment, God’s character is fundamentally different from that of humans. He is patient and longs to restore rather than to destroy, reflecting His desire for reconciliation with His people. Explore related forgiveness.

How to apply Hosea 11:9 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on God's mercy in our own lives. When we face anger or conflict, we can choose to respond with compassion instead of retaliation. Emulating God's patience can lead to healing and restoration in our relationships.

Curated for this public verse page. Hosea Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Hosea 11:9 mean?

Hosea 11:9 means that God chooses to withhold His anger and not destroy the people of Ephraim, symbolizing His mercy and compassion despite their wrongdoing.

What is the significance of God being 'not man' in Hosea 11:9?

The phrase 'not man' in Hosea 11:9 highlights God's divine nature, indicating that unlike humans who may act out of anger, God is patient and merciful.

What does the term 'Holy One' refer to in Hosea 11:9?

In Hosea 11:9, 'Holy One' refers to God's purity and separation from sin, emphasizing His role as a compassionate and forgiving presence among His people.

How does Hosea 11:9 relate to God's mercy?

Hosea 11:9 illustrates God's mercy by showing that He chooses not to punish the people of Ephraim despite their sins, reflecting His desire for reconciliation.

The Book of Hosea
Book Summary

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.

Premium

Unlock the full Hosea summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Hosea — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 14 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Hosea summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.