Hosea 13:14 is a verse that has been translated differently in various Bible versions. The key phrase in question is whether it should read “I will deliver/ransom” or “Will I deliver/ransom.” Here is the verse in the English Standard Version (ESV):
“Shall I ransom them from the power of Sheol? Shall I redeem them from Death? O Death, where are your plagues? O Sheol, where is your sting? Compassion is hidden from my eyes.” (Hosea 13:14 ESV)
In the original Hebrew, the first two rhetorical questions start with the word “m” which could be translated as “from” or as the interrogative particle “whether.” Thus some translations render it “Shall I ransom…” while others have “Will I ransom…” So which is the preferred reading?
There are good arguments on both sides. Here are a few factors to consider:
Arguments for “I will deliver/ransom”
- It fits with God’s character of compassion and redemption that is seen throughout Scripture. The verse goes on to talk about compassion being hidden from God’s eyes, implying God’s judgment has come.
- It parallels the statements that follow – “O Death, where are your plagues? O Sheol, where is your sting?” which imply God’s victory over death.
- “I will ransom” was the reading in the pre-Christian Greek Septuagint translation of the Old Testament.
- Some Hebrew grammarians argue the form of the verb can be legitimately translated as a first person statement of intent.
Arguments for “Will I deliver/ransom”
- The immediate context is about God’s judgment on unrepentant Israel. So this could be read as a rhetorical question implying no redemption.
- It fits God’s hiding of His compassion and abandoning Israel to exile due to their sin.
- The verb form fits naturally as a rhetorical question expecting a negative answer.
- The alternate reading has God “repenting” of delivering Israel, which some argue compromises God’s immutability.
Key Theological Implications
How one decides on the translation has implications for understanding God’s nature and His plan of redemption:
- “I will ransom” implies God’s steadfast love triumphing, even in judgment.
- “Will I ransom” implies God’s justice and hidden compassion to bring repentance.
So there are good reasons why Bible translators and commentators differ. Current English translations are divided:
“I will deliver/ransom”
- ESV
- NRSV
- NASB
- NET
“Will I deliver/ransom”
- NIV
- HCSB
- NKJV
Factors in Deciding the Translation
Here are some factors scholars take into account when determining which rendering to use:
- Hebrew verb forms – The verb morphology and syntactical function are evaluated.
- Hebrew particle “m” – Whether it is interrogative or not affects the translation.
- Immediate context – Is the judgment or redemption motif foremost?
- Theology of Hosea – Does his message emphasize God’s love or judgment?
- Parallel usages – How does the form translate elsewhere?
- Church history – How have important interpreters viewed this verse?
There are good reasons for either translation. Perhaps the ambiguity is intentional – God’s ways are past finding out! (Romans 11:33). Faithful scholars differ, so there is latitude for either view held in good conscience.
The Broader Message of Redemption
While the exact translation is debated, the overarching message of hope and redemption still shines through. A few key themes to note:
- God yearns to ransom and redeem His people out of compassion.
- He has ultimately conquered the powers of death and Sheol through Christ (1 Corinthians 15:54-55).
- Though judgment comes, God’s plan is ultimately for restoration (Hosea 14:4-7).
- We wait in hope for the full redemption of all creation (Romans 8:18-25).
So while scholars may differ on the details, the big picture remains – God is working out His redemptive plan amid the complexities of human sin and divine judgment. Hosea 13:14 gives us a glimpse into the mysterious interplay between God’s mercy and justice. This verse challenges us to marvel at the depths of God’s wisdom and knowledge, and cling all the more firmly to His offer of grace in Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
In summary, there are good reasons for translating Hosea 13:14 either as “I will ransom/redeem” or “Will I ransom/redeem.” Faithful Bible scholars differ given the linguistic complexities and theological implications. The exact translation is debated, but the overarching theme of God’s redemption shines through. Hosea 13:14 gives us a vivid window into how God’s justice and mercy interact in the midst of human sin. Most importantly, it points forward to the ultimate redemption from sin and death accomplished by Jesus Christ.