Definition: Lest I strip her naked, and set her as in the day that she was born, and make her as a wilderness, and set her like a dry land, and slay her with thirst.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Hosea 2:3. It’s a really powerful and somewhat shocking passage about love and care – and it’s often interpreted as a warning about neglecting or mistreating someone you love. Here's a simple explanation: What the Verse Says: "Lest I strip her naked, and set her as in the day that she was born, and make her as a wilderness, and set her like a dry land, and slay her with thirst." Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Lest I strip her naked…” – This is the core of the warning. It means “lest” means "if" or “if something bad happens.” The speaker (Hosea) is saying, “If I treat you poorly, disrespect you, or take you for granted, there’s a risk that I will do something incredibly damaging to you.” “…and set her as in the day that she was born…” – This brings us back to the beginning. It's like comparing someone to how they were when they were just born – innocent and vulnerable. The speaker is saying, "If I treat you badly, it will be like the way things were before we met." “…and make her as a wilderness…” - A wilderness is barren, wild, and desolate. It’s not a place of comfort or beauty; it's a place of hardship and danger. This suggests that the person being treated poorly is becoming harsh, untamed, and difficult to handle. “…and set her like a dry land…” - A dry land lacks water – it can’t sustain life. This symbolizes a lack of affection, care, or support. It's something that doesn’t provide nourishment or comfort. “…and slay her with thirst.” – This is the most intense part of the verse. "Slay" means to kill, and “thirst” refers to a deep, desperate need for something – like love, affection, or care. It's suggesting that the person being treated poorly is so desperate and unhappy that they are about to be destroyed by their own lack of fulfillment. So, what’s the message? The verse warns against neglecting someone you love – treating them with disrespect, indifference, or even abuse. It speaks about a dangerous state where the relationship becomes increasingly difficult, potentially leading to pain and destruction. It's a strong plea for kindness, compassion, and care in relationships. Important Note: This is often interpreted as a warning against harmful behavior, but it’s also a poetic expression of deep concern for someone’s well-being. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss the historical context (where Hosea lived and what he was going through)? Connect this verse to other biblical teachings about love, forgiveness, or responsibility?