Who is…
Hosea

Meaning: salvation

He is a son of Beeri, and the author of the book of prophecies bearing his name.

He belonged to the kingdom of Israel.

“His Israelitish origin is attested by the peculiar, rough, Aramaizing diction, pointing to the northern part of Palestine; by the intimate acquaintance he evinces with the localities of Ephraim (Hosea 5:1; 6:8-9; 12:12; 14:6, etc.); by passages like Hosea 1:2, where the kingdom is styled ‘the land,’ and Hosea 7:5, where the Israelitish king is designated as ‘our’ king.”

His ministry extended a period of 60 years.

He is the only prophet of Israel who has left any written prophecy.

His wife was named Gomer.

Hosea’s name means “salvation” (as do the names “Jesus” and “Joshua”), and he lived a life which demonstrated true love, even when his wife was unfaithful.

A description of the historical events that took place during his long ministry can be read in 2 Kings 14–20 and 2 Chronicles 26–32. Kings who ruled during his ministry include Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, Hezekiah, Jeroboam II, Zechariah and Hoshea.

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Article Version: January 18, 2022