Definition: They shall not offer wine [offerings] to the LORD, neither shall they be pleasing unto him: their sacrifices [shall be] unto them as the bread of mourners; all that eat thereof shall be polluted: for their bread for their soul shall not come into the house of the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Hosea 9:4. It’s a really important and somewhat sobering message about worship and relationship with God. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that if people aren’t truly worshipping God – focusing on him, seeking his grace, and loving him – their offerings (sacrifices) are actually harmful to them. It’s like offering bread to someone when you're not truly hungry or appreciating it. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “They shall not offer wine [offerings] to the LORD…” : This is a direct prohibition against giving gifts and sacrifices to God. It means that people shouldn’t be focusing on receiving blessings from God through worship, but rather on giving them. “…neither shall they be pleasing unto him:” This is a key part of the message. “Pleasing” in this context doesn't mean being handsome or popular. It means aligning with God’s will and loving him – living a life that reflects his character and purpose. When people aren't truly seeking to please Him, their actions are not pleasing to Him. “…their sacrifices [shall be] unto them as the bread of mourners; all that eat thereof shall be polluted:” This is where it gets really powerful. "Bread of mourners" means a comforting and nourishing meal for someone who is grieving or lost. It’s meant to ease their suffering and provide solace. However, eating this “bread” (the offerings) will actually corrupt the person's soul. It will make them feel unclean and unfulfilled. “…for their bread for their soul shall not come into the house of the LORD.” This is the final point. God wants people to be whole – spiritually whole – and that includes being nourished by his grace. If they’re focused on things outside of him, like material possessions or fleeting pleasures, they won’t find true peace and fulfillment within Him. Their “soul” (their spirit) will remain unfulfilled. In a nutshell: This verse warns against focusing on worldly things instead of God. It highlights that genuine worship and devotion are essential for a person's spiritual well-being and ultimately leads to a life filled with peace and connection with the divine. Why is this important? This verse speaks to a deeper truth about the nature of worship. It’s not enough to just say you love God; you need to live as if you do, showing your devotion through your actions and choices. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or example from the Bible?