Definition: The iniquity of Ephraim [is] bound up; his sin [is] hid.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Hosea 13:12 together. It’s a really powerful and thought-provoking statement about the state of people living in Israel during that time. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that the sinful habits and mistakes of the people in Ephraim are being contained or hidden . It’s like a bag filled with dirt – it’s not openly visible, but it's definitely there. Let’s unpack each part: “Hosea 13:12” : This is the specific passage from the book of Hosea. It’s a particular section in the Old Testament Hebrew Bible. “The iniquity of Ephraim…” : "Iniquity" is a tricky word, but it basically means “sin” or “deeds of wickedness.” It refers to all the wrong and bad things people do – things that are morally wrong and harmful to God. “…is bound up…” : This suggests that these sins are being collected , contained , or gathered together . It's not just a few isolated mistakes, but a whole lot of them. “His sin is hidden.” : This means the sinful habits and mistakes of Ephraim are not openly known to everyone. They’re not displayed for all to see. It suggests that these sins are deeply ingrained within the community, perhaps even among themselves. What does this mean in a bigger picture? This verse speaks to a time of great distress for Israel, as Hosea is criticizing them for their sin and lack of righteousness. It's a warning about the potential for widespread trouble – that if Ephraim doesn’t turn away from their wickedness, it will lead to serious consequences for the entire nation. In essence, the verse paints a picture of a deeply troubled community struggling with its own sins, and God is quietly managing these problems. Important Note: This is a complex passage that's often interpreted in different ways. It’s not meant to be a literal account of a physical container, but rather a symbolic representation of the spiritual state of a people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of Hosea 13:12 in more detail? Explore what this verse might be teaching us about forgiveness and redemption?