Old Testament
Hosea 13:14
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Will I ransom them from the power of the grave? Will I redeem them from death? Death, where are your plagues? Grave, where is your destruction? I will not take back my judgment — compassion is hidden from my eyes.
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I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death: O death, I will be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction: repentance shall be hid from mine eyes.
What Hosea 13:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Hosea 13:14, God expresses His power over life and death, questioning the grave and death about their hold on humanity. The verse highlights God's intention to redeem His people from death, emphasizing that He will not withdraw His judgment. The imagery of death and the grave is powerful, suggesting that God has authority over these forces. The mention of compassion being hidden indicates a time of judgment where mercy is not extended. This reflects the seriousness of Israel's sin and the consequences they face. Ultimately, it underscores God's sovereignty and the reality of judgment, while also hinting at the hope of redemption that can come through repentance, even if it seems distant in this moment of divine pronouncement.
How to apply Hosea 13:14 to your life
This verse reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the reality of judgment. It encourages us to seek God's mercy and redemption while we can. Understanding God's authority over life and death should motivate us to live righteously and turn to Him in repentance.
Curated for this public verse page. Hosea Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Hosea
- Author
- Hosea the prophet
- Written
- Around 750 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- The northern kingdom of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Hosea 13:14 mean?
Hosea 13:14 expresses God's authority over death and the grave, questioning their power over humanity. It highlights God's intention to redeem His people, while also indicating that judgment is imminent and compassion is not currently extended.
What is the meaning of redemption in Hosea 13:14?
In Hosea 13:14, redemption refers to God's promise to save His people from death and its consequences. It emphasizes His power to deliver them from the grave, despite the judgment they face for their sins.
What does the phrase 'compassion is hidden from my eyes' mean in Hosea 13:14?
The phrase 'compassion is hidden from my eyes' indicates a time of judgment where God is not extending mercy. It signifies the seriousness of Israel's sins and the consequences they must face.
How does Hosea 13:14 relate to the concept of judgment?
Hosea 13:14 relates to judgment by emphasizing that God's decisions regarding His people are firm and unyielding. It serves as a warning about the consequences of sin and the reality of divine judgment.
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