Hosea 6

2. After two days. That is, after a very brief period, as we say, “in a couple of days.” For this indefinite use of “two,” see 1 Kings xvii. 12; Isa. vii. 21.

3. Then shall we know, etc. Or, “And let us know, let us follow on (i.e., eagerly strive to know Jehovah); [for] His coming forth is sure as the morning” (R.V.), etc.; i.e., it is as certain as the cheering dawn and the fertilising rain (see Gen. viii. 22), and therefore we cannot be disappointed.

4 your goodness. Lit., “your mercy”; or, “your love”; a phrase designating religion: see Isa. lvii. 1. The French version has “votre piété.”

5 have I hewed them. I have threatened them severely: cp. Isa. xi. 4; Heb. iv. 12.

thy judgements. Most ancient versions read, “my judgement goeth forth as the light (lightning).”

6. I desired (desire) mercy and not sacrifice. See the quotation of this passage by our Lord in Matt. ix. 13; xii. 7.

7 like men. Better, “like Adam” (R.V.): cp. Rom. v. 14. The word there presents difficulties. Several leading commentators regard it as referring to Palestine, which was to Israel as Paradise to Adam.

8 polluted with blood. Rather, “tracked with blood.” This was probably Ramoth-Gilead, the chief city of the district; which, though a priests’ city, and one of the cities of refuge, had become notorious for idolatry and bloodshed: see 2 Kings xv. 25.

9 in the way by consent. Rather, “in the way towards Shechem” (R.V.); another city of refuge. It is probable that the privilege of sanctuary had been abused, so that these cities on the two sides of Jordan had become nests of banditti.

11. He hath set a harvest for thee. A harvest of punishment. Render, with R.V., “there is a harvest appointed for thee.”

when I returned the captivity of My people. Or, “When I would bring back the captivity of My people, when I would heal Israel, then the iniquity,” etc.