Who was Hosea in the Bible?

Hosea is listed as the first of the twelve minor prophets in the Hebrew Bible. He was one of the first to write down his prophecies.

Hosea married Gomer, an adulterous woman, who ran away and slept with another man. The marriage symbolized the breakdown between God and his people because his people turned to other gods. Despite her adultery, Hosea bought her back from slavery, and this reflects the other side of his message, that God's love for Israel will ultimately forgive and restore the nation.

Hosea

Server Costs Fundraiser 2024

Help our mission to provide free history education to the world! Please donate and contribute to covering our server costs in 2024. With your support, millions of people learn about history entirely for free every month.

$3926 / $18000

❤ Donate

Definition

Hosea is listed as the first of the twelve minor prophets in the Hebrew Bible. He was active in the 8th century BCE and his ministry extended over 60 years, from King Jeroboam II (787-747 BCE) to King Hoseah (731-722 BCE). He was one of the first to write down his prophecies. Hosea ("salvation") may have derived from Joshua ("he saves").

More about: Hosea

Timeline

787 BCE - 747 BCE
Reign of King Jeroboam, ministry of Hosea.
731 BCE - 722 BCE
Reign of King Hoseah, ministry of Hosea.