Verses 21-22
21, 22. Another feature of the future blessedness will be the extreme fertility of the soil (Amos 9:13; Joel 3:18). The promise in these verses presents a contrast to Hosea 2:9; Hosea 2:12, and a continuation of 18a. When the judgment has done its work, Jehovah will restore prosperity in a more abundant measure. The thought is expressed very beautifully under the picture of perfect harmony between the physical and spiritual spheres. Jehovah will no longer restrain the powers of nature from doing their work for the blessing of Israel. “Israel asks its plants to germinate; they call upon the earth for its juices; the earth beseeches heaven for rain; heaven supplicates for the divine word which opens its stores, and Jehovah responds in faithful love.”
Hear Better, R.V., “answer,” or “respond,” as the call comes. The curse threatened in 9ff. is removed.
Jezreel Used in Hosea 1:4, for its historical associations; here on account of its meaning, God sows. Why the name is applied to Israel is shown in Hosea 2:23: I will sow Establish permanently.
In the earth As in Hosea 2:18, better, “land.”
Unto me Not unto the Baalim. Thus the first name symbolic of doom (Hosea 1:4) is transformed into one of promise. The same will take place with the others. Lo-ruhamah (Hosea 1:6) will again experience the divine favor and mercy; and Lo-ammi (Hosea 1:9) will again become the people of God. This transformation in fortune is not wrought arbitrarily; it is based upon the inner transformation described in Hosea 2:19-20.
Thou art my God Forever they are cured from running after the Baalim; Jehovah alone they will recognize as their God.
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