Definition: Therefore have I hewed [them] by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth: and thy judgments [are as] the light [that] goeth forth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Hosea 6:5. It’s a really powerful and slightly complex passage about forgiveness and judgment. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God is incredibly forgiving of people who have disobeyed him. He’s not just letting them off with a slap on the wrist; he’s actively killing their problems by speaking out against them. Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “Therefore have I hewed [them] by the prophets” : This means "I have broken/punished them" – using the word “hew” as in a knife cutting something. It suggests that God has dealt with the people who have disobeyed him, perhaps through punishment or hardship. “I have slain them by the words of my mouth” : This is the core of the verse. God isn’t just doing things; he’s actively speaking about their wrongdoings. He's using his words – his judgment – to destroy what they’ve done. “and thy judgments [are] as” : “Thy judgments” is a plural form, meaning it refers to many judgments. This part emphasizes the intensity of God’s action. “that goeth forth” : This means "that shines/radiates." It's like a light that continues to burn and illuminate even after the punishment has been delivered. Putting it all together – a simple summary: God is actively punishing people for their disobedience, but he’s also cleansing them by speaking truth into the world. His words are so powerful they’re creating a light—a lasting and transformative effect that continues to illuminate even after the initial punishment. What does this mean practically? This verse speaks to the idea of God's unwavering justice and his desire for reconciliation. He doesn't just want to punish; he wants to restore through truth and righteousness. It’s a message about forgiveness, repentance, and the transformative power of God’s word. Important Note: It’s important to note that this is a complex passage within the context of Hosea, which is a story about a broken relationship between Hosea and his wife, Betsey. The verse is often interpreted as highlighting God's relentless pursuit of justice and his willingness to punish those who reject him. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Relate it to a specific aspect of Hosea’s story? Give an example of how this concept might be applied to modern situations (like forgiveness)?