Abstract

Hos 11,8-9 is characterized by its strong anthropomorphic language and by its (illusory?) disassociation from it. A reference to Israel’s God as “not human” motivates the unexpected change of mind and compassion for God’s Israel. This article is based on a tradition-historical oriented typological reading of the expression “I am God and not human.” It suggests a new interpretation of this expression which throws a new light on the notoriously difficult conclusion of the passage: “I will not enter the city.” The exegetical discussion normally focuses on what is going on in YHWH’s mind and heart, but also on the alleged struggle between anger and love. The author’s interpretation points to the risk of transforming the pain of God into an internal transaction, with which it is hard to sympathize and to feel involved.

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