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For they are gone up to Assyria, [like] a wild donkey alone by himself: Ephraim has hired lovers.

Verse Takeaways

1

The Danger of Stubborn Independence

Commentators explain that the "wild ass alone by himself" is a powerful image of Israel's stubborn and self-willed rebellion. Like an untamable animal that separates from the herd, Israel rejected God's guidance and rushed headlong into danger. This foolish independence, seeking their own way, made them vulnerable and an easy prey for their enemies, serving as a warning against relying on our own wisdom instead of God's.

See 3 Verse Takeaways

Book Overview

Hosea

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Commentaries

5

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Hosea 8:9

18th Century

Theologian

For they are gone up to Assyria - The ground of their captivity is that in which they placed their hope of safety. They will soon be swallow…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Hosea 8:9

19th Century

Bishop

Gone up to Assyria. The word so translated is also used elsewhere for “going up” to the sanctuary of the Lord. (See Note on Hosea …

John Calvin

John Calvin

On Hosea 8:9–10

16th Century

Theologian

Here again the Prophet derides all the labor the people had undertaken to exempt themselves from punishment. For though hypocrites dare not openly …

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John Gill

John Gill

On Hosea 8:9

17th Century

Pastor

For they are gone up to Assyria
Or, "though they should go up to Assyria" F7 ; to the king of Assyria, to gain his …

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Hosea 8:5–10

17th Century

Minister

They promised themselves plenty, peace, and victory, by worshipping idols, but their expectations came to nothing. What they sow has no stalk, no b…