Hosea 8:4

[JesusFreak78]

Hosea 8:4
They have set up kings, but not by Me; They have appointed princes, but I did not know it. With their silver and gold they have made idols for themselfs, That they might be cut off.

I understand it is God who is speaking, but I do not understand why He say "but I did not know it." Can someone please help me with this verse?

 

[Rafael]

It is literary expression that tells us that they, the house of Israel, did things according to their own wills instead of going by what God had already revealed to them as His will. In other words, they were wlllfully disobedient. I does not mean that God has lost His power of omniscience.

 

[JesusFreak78]

Thanks for your reply.
I know all that and I know God know all things and that's why I don't understand why God say "but I did not know it." My question is, why do God say He didn't know it when He know all things?

 

[Rafael]

Thanks for your reply.
I know all that and I know God know all things and that's why I don't understand why God say "but I did not know it." My question is, why do God say He didn't know it when He know all things?

God did not do the translation from ancient Hebrew into English.Translating the ancient languages that used word pictures like hieroglyphics into the abstract thought style of the Greek language is often difficult and takes into consideration that some things just do not have words to express the original intent without adding clarifying text. Sometimes the translatiors tried to add to that intent with their own understanding, and that is why most Bible translations do not add this text. God didn't make the mistake,if there is one, as the question is not directed toward God's omnicience, but about man's williness to rebell against God and sin. If there is any mistake, I would not accuse God of it.

 

[Edial]

Hosea 8:4
They have set up kings, but not by Me; They have appointed princes, but I did not know it. With their silver and gold they have made idols for themselfs, That they might be cut off.

I understand it is God who is speaking, but I do not understand why He say "but I did not know it." Can someone please help me with this verse?

"Know" is Strong's 3045 that could also mean "to recognize as one's own". It could also mean "to approve".

See this commentary page on the topic ...

Thanks,
Ed