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Book of Hosea - Chapter 10 - Verse 9

10:9
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.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Hosea is a call to the nation of Israel to acknowledge and repent of their long history of sin and rebellion against God. The reference to the days of Gibeah serves as a reminder of a dark and sinful period in Israel's history when the tribe of Benjamin committed a heinous act of violence and immorality. By bringing up this historical event, the prophet Hosea is highlighting the fact that Israel's sin is not a recent development but has been ingrained in their culture for a long time. The verse emphasizes that despite the battle in Gibeah against the children of iniquity, the people of Israel were not overtaken, implying that God's judgment had not yet fallen upon them. This serves as a warning to Israel that their continued sinfulness will eventually lead to divine judgment if they do not repent and turn back to God.

Theological Overview

The verse highlights a significant event that took place in Gibeah, a city in the territory of Benjamin. The sinful behavior of the people of Israel in Gibeah mirrors the wickedness that occurred in the days of Gibeah, reverberating through history due to the impact of their transgressions. The battle against the children of iniquity was fierce and relentless, yet the people of Gibeah did not face the consequences of their actions as judgment did not immediately overtake them. This verse serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of persistent sin and the importance of repentance and righteousness in the eyes of God. Through theological interpretation and word studies, one can delve deeper into the historical context of Gibeah and its significance in shaping the beliefs and moral teachings of the people of Israel. The verse provides valuable insights into the consequences of unrepentant sin and serves as a cautionary tale for believers today.

American Standard Version

O Israel, thou hast sinned from the days of Gibeah: there they stood; the battle against the children of iniquity doth not overtake them in Gibeah.
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