Lo-Ruhamah
TextsWhat is the meaning of Lo-Ruhamah in the Bible?
Lo-ruhamah (LO-ROO-ha'-ma) is a Hebrew word meaning 'not pitied' or 'not loved,' used in Hosea 1:6 as a symbolic name for the northern kingdom of Israel to signify God's decision to withhold mercy and forgive their sins.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Lo-ruhamah clarifies the prophetic judgment against the northern kingdom, illustrating the temporary withdrawal of divine favor due to covenant unfaithfulness before the subsequent promise of restoration found in Hosea 2:23.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Lo-Ruhamah functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Lo-Ruhamah in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Lo-Ruhamah clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Hosea 1:6Hosea 2:23
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Lo-Ruhamah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/loruhamah/