Focused Passage
A Call to Return and the Exposure of Fleeting Covenant Love
Hosea 6 moves from a communal call to return and be healed, to the LORD's interrogation of Israel and Judah's fleeting love, to the prophetic verdict that steadfast love and knowledge of God matter more than sacrifice, to evidence that covenant treachery has defiled the land and left both Israel and Judah exposed to judgment.
Berean Standard Bible, Public Domain - Translation notes - Reference sources
4 What shall I do with you, O Ephraim? What shall I do with you, O Judah? For your loyalty is like a morning mist, like the early dew that vanishes.
5 Therefore I have hewn them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of My mouth, and My judgments go forth like lightning.
6 For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.
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