Hosea 2:22

KJV

And the earth shall hear the corn, and the wine, and the oil; and they shall hear Jezreel.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the earth {H776} shall hear {H6030} the corn {H1715}, and the wine {H8492}, and the oil {H3323}; and they shall hear {H6030} Jezreel {H3157}.

Complete Jewish Bible

the earth will answer the corn, wine and oil, and they will answer Yizre'el [God will sow].

Berean Standard Bible

And the earth will respond to the grain, to the new wine and oil, and they will respond to Jezreel.

American Standard Version

and the earth shall answer the grain, and the new wine, and the oil; and they shall answer Jezreel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hosea 2:22 stands as a profound declaration of divine restoration and abundant provision, illustrating God's reversal of judgment upon Israel. Following a period of promised desolation due to spiritual infidelity, this verse vividly portrays a harmonious, reciprocal relationship within creation—where the earth, in response to divine command, yields its life-sustaining produce, and these blessings, in turn, acknowledge a restored and regathered Israel, symbolized by the transformed name "Jezreel." It encapsulates God's unwavering commitment to renew His covenant, transforming past scattering into future sowing and blessing.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Hosea 2:22 is situated within a pivotal section of the book (Hosea 2:14-23) that marks a dramatic shift from pronouncements of judgment to promises of restoration. Chapters 1 and the first part of chapter 2 detail Israel's spiritual adultery, personified by Hosea's unfaithful wife, Gomer, and the consequences of their idolatry, including the removal of divine blessings and the threat of desolation (e.g., [Hosea 2:8-13](/hosea/2-8-13 "Hosea 2:8-13 - Israel's Punishment for Idolatry")). However, from [Hosea 2:14](/hosea/2-14 "Hosea 2:14 - God's Promise to Woo Israel Back") onward, God declares His intent to "woo" Israel back into a covenant relationship, leading her into the wilderness to speak tenderly to her. This verse specifically follows [Hosea 2:21](/hosea/2-21 "Hosea 2:21 - The Chain of Divine Response"), which establishes a divine chain of command: God answers the heavens, the heavens answer the earth, and here, the earth answers the staple crops, which then acknowledge "Jezreel." This intricate sequence underscores God's absolute sovereignty over creation and His direct involvement in reversing the curses of drought and famine, culminating in a restored relationship with His people.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy of Hosea is primarily directed at the Northern Kingdom of Israel (often called Ephraim) during the 8th century BCE, a period marked by political instability, social injustice, and rampant idolatry, particularly the worship of Baal. Baal was revered as the god of fertility, rain, and agricultural abundance, and Israel had mistakenly attributed their prosperity to him rather than to Yahweh. The "corn, wine, and oil" mentioned in the verse were the foundational agricultural products of ancient Israel's economy and diet, symbolizing complete material blessing and sustenance. The Jezreel Valley, a fertile plain in northern Israel, was a vital agricultural region and also a place of significant historical events, including battles and royal residences. The cultural understanding of a land's fertility being directly tied to divine favor or disfavor (as seen in covenant blessings and curses in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses")) is crucial for appreciating the profound reversal promised in this verse. God's promise to make the earth "hear" and yield its produce signifies a direct challenge to Baal's perceived power and a reaffirmation of Yahweh as the true source of all blessing.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Hosea and the broader prophetic literature. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Provision and Abundance**, highlighting God's direct involvement in providing for the physical needs of His people, contrasting sharply with the barrenness threatened earlier due to Israel's unfaithfulness. Secondly, it underscores **Covenant Renewal and Fertility**, illustrating a restored, harmonious relationship between God, creation, and His people, signifying the return of agricultural prosperity as a sign of renewed covenant blessings, echoing promises found in [Deuteronomy 28:12](/deuteronomy/28-12 "Deuteronomy 28:12 - Blessings of Rain and Harvest"). Finally, and most profoundly, the verse embodies the **Reversal of Judgment and Transformation of Identity**. The name "Jezreel" (Hebrew: *Yizre'el*) initially carried a connotation of judgment and scattering, as seen in [Hosea 1:4](/hosea/1-4 "Hosea 1:4 - Judgment on the House of Jehu and Jezreel"). However, in this chapter, particularly in [Hosea 2:23](/hosea/2-23 "Hosea 2:23 - God Will Sow and Have Mercy"), its meaning is transformed to "God sows" for blessing and growth, indicating a gathering and restoration rather than scattering. This transformation of the name itself encapsulates the profound shift from divine wrath to redemptive grace.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **hear (Hebrew, _ʻânâh'_):** H6030. This primitive root means "to eye" or "to heed," implying to pay attention, respond, or answer. In this context, it signifies a responsive, obedient yielding. The earth "hearing" the produce, and the produce "hearing" Jezreel, indicates a divinely orchestrated responsiveness, where creation actively participates in God's plan of restoration, not merely passively receiving. It's an active, reciprocal acknowledgment.
* **corn (Hebrew, _dâgân'_):** H1715. From a root meaning "increase," this term refers to grain, specifically wheat or corn. It represents the staple food crop, symbolizing basic sustenance and agricultural abundance. Its inclusion alongside wine and oil signifies comprehensive material prosperity and the fulfillment of God's promises of a fruitful land.
* **wine (Hebrew, _tîyrôwsh'_):** H8492. This refers to "must" or "fresh grape-juice," implying new or sweet wine. It represents the fruit of the vine, a source of joy and celebration, and another vital agricultural product. Its presence denotes not just survival but flourishing and delight.
* **oil (Hebrew, _yitshâr'_):** H3323. From a root meaning "to produce light," this refers to olive oil, used for food, anointing, and illumination. It symbolizes richness, blessing, and often, the anointing of God. Together with corn and wine, it forms the triumvirate of agricultural blessings, signifying complete provision and well-being.
* **Jezreel (Hebrew, _Yizrᵉʻêʼl'_):** H3157. Meaning "God will sow" or "God scatters." This name is central to Hosea's prophecy. While initially a symbol of God's judgment and scattering of Israel (as in [Hosea 1:4](/hosea/1-4 "Hosea 1:4 - Judgment at Jezreel")), in this context, it is profoundly reinterpreted. The earth and its produce "hearing" Jezreel signifies that the land and its blessings are now directed towards a restored, regathered, and "sown" people, implying God's intention to plant them firmly in the land for growth and blessing, rather than scattering them in judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the earth shall hear the corn, and the wine, and the oil;"**: This clause establishes the immediate, tangible result of the divine chain of command initiated in the preceding verse. The "earth" (H776, *ʼerets*, referring to the land itself) is personified as actively "hearing" or responding to the "corn, wine, and oil." This signifies that the land, which had previously been barren due to divine judgment, will now yield its produce abundantly. It's a reversal of the curses of drought and famine, promising agricultural fertility and prosperity as a direct consequence of God's renewed favor. The very ground will be fertile and productive, providing the essential staples for life and celebration.
* **"and they shall hear Jezreel."**: This second clause continues the chain of responsiveness, but with a profound theological twist. The "corn, wine, and oil" (representing the abundant produce) will, in turn, "hear" or respond to "Jezreel." The name Jezreel, which previously symbolized God's act of scattering and judgment upon the Northern Kingdom, is here transformed. It now represents the restored, regathered, and "sown" people of Israel. The implication is that the blessings of the land are not just generic but are specifically directed towards God's covenant people, who are now seen as a fertile seed planted by God Himself, destined for growth and prosperity rather than destruction. This signifies a complete reversal of their fortunes and a new era of divine favor.

#### Literary Devices
Hosea 2:22 is rich with literary devices that amplify its message of restoration. The most prominent is **Personification**, where inanimate objects are given human qualities. The "earth" is depicted as "hearing" the produce, and the "corn, wine, and oil" are, in turn, described as "hearing" Jezreel. This creates a vivid image of a responsive, interconnected creation, all working in harmony under God's sovereign command. This chain of "hearing" also functions as a **Chain Reaction** or **Gradation**, building from God's initial answer to the heavens (in [Hosea 2:21](/hosea/2-21 "Hosea 2:21 - God's Responsive Chain")), down to the earth, then to the produce, and finally to the people. This highlights the comprehensive nature of God's redemptive work, affecting every level of existence. Furthermore, the verse employs powerful **Symbolism**. "Corn, wine, and oil" are not merely agricultural products but symbols of divine provision, material blessing, and the fullness of life. Most significantly, the name "Jezreel" undergoes a dramatic **Transformation of Meaning** (a specific type of symbolism or irony), shifting from a symbol of judgment and scattering in [Hosea 1:4](/hosea/1-4 "Hosea 1:4 - Jezreel as Judgment") to one of God's purposeful "sowing" and gathering for blessing in this context. This profound shift underscores God's redemptive power to reverse curses into blessings and to transform a people's destiny.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hosea 2:22 powerfully articulates God's unwavering covenant faithfulness and His ultimate desire for the restoration of His people. It demonstrates that even after severe judgment for unfaithfulness, God's nature is to extend mercy and bring about profound renewal. The verse underscores God's absolute sovereignty over creation, revealing that the very fabric of the natural world responds to His command, providing for His people when they are in right relationship with Him. This reversal of the curse of barrenness into abundant fertility is a testament to His redemptive power, transforming a symbol of scattering (Jezreel) into a promise of fruitful sowing. It foreshadows a time when God's people will not only be physically sustained but also spiritually nourished, living in harmony with God and His creation.

* [Deuteronomy 28:1-14](/deuteronomy/28-1-14 "Deuteronomy 28:1-14 - Blessings of Obedience")
* [Joel 2:23-26](/joel/2-23-26 "Joel 2:23-26 - Restoration of the Land and Abundance")
* [Amos 9:13-15](/amos/9-13-15 "Amos 9:13-15 - Restoration of Israel and Abundance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hosea 2:22 offers profound encouragement for believers today, reminding us that God's character is ultimately one of restoration and abundant grace, even in the face of our unfaithfulness. Just as God promised to reverse Israel's desolation and transform their judgment into blessing, so too does He work in our lives, capable of bringing forth spiritual and physical harvests even from barren seasons. This verse invites us to trust in God's sovereign control over all circumstances, recognizing that He can orchestrate events—from the heavens to the earth, to our daily provisions—to bring about His good purposes. It challenges us to consider our own "Jezreel" moments, those areas of our lives that may feel scattered or under judgment, and to embrace the hope that God desires to "sow" us for His glory, cultivating growth, fruitfulness, and renewed relationship. It's a call to return to Him, assured that His response will be one of overflowing provision and steadfast love, enabling us to flourish in every season.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to experience God's "sowing" and restoration, transforming barrenness into fruitfulness?**
* **How does the interconnectedness of creation "hearing" and responding to God's command deepen your understanding of His sovereignty and provision?**
* **Considering the transformation of "Jezreel," how does this verse encourage you about God's ability to redeem and repurpose past failures or judgments in your life?**
* **What specific "corn, wine, and oil" (blessings, provisions, joys) are you currently experiencing that you can recognize as God's faithful response to His covenant with you?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "hearing" motif in Hosea 2:22?**

Answer: The motif of "hearing" (Hebrew: *ʻânâh*) is central to understanding the reciprocal nature of God's restoration in this verse. It signifies more than just auditory perception; it implies an active, responsive obedience and acknowledgment. In [Hosea 2:21](/hosea/2-21 "Hosea 2:21 - The Chain of Divine Response"), God answers the heavens, meaning He responds to their need for rain. The heavens then "hear" or respond by providing rain to the earth. The earth, in turn, "hears" or responds by yielding the "corn, wine, and oil." Finally, these agricultural blessings "hear" or respond to "Jezreel," meaning they are directed towards and acknowledge the restored people of Israel. This chain of "hearing" highlights God's absolute sovereignty over all creation and His ability to orchestrate every element to bring about His purposes of blessing and provision for His covenant people. It's a picture of creation in harmony, responding to divine command, in stark contrast to the earlier desolation caused by Israel's unfaithfulness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hosea 2:22, with its profound imagery of divine sowing, abundant provision, and the transformation of judgment into blessing, finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The promise of God making the land fruitful and directing its blessings towards a restored "Jezreel" points forward to the new covenant established through Christ, where spiritual barrenness is replaced by an overflow of grace and life. Jesus is the true "seed" sown by God ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - The Promises Made to Abraham and His Seed")), through whom all the promises of God find their "Yes" and "Amen" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are Yes in Christ")). He is the "bread of life" and the "true vine," providing spiritual "corn, wine, and oil" to those who believe ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus the Bread of Life"); [John 15:1](/john/15-1 "John 15:1 - Jesus the True Vine")). Through His atoning sacrifice, the curse of sin and spiritual barrenness is reversed, and believers are "sown" into His kingdom, becoming fruitful branches that bear much fruit for God's glory ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Bearing Fruit in Christ")). The transformation of "Jezreel" from a name of scattering to one of sowing and gathering is fully realized in Christ, who gathers His people from every nation, making them one body, a new creation, destined for eternal blessing and abundance in the new heavens and new earth, where God's provision will be unending ([Matthew 23:37](/matthew/23-37 "Matthew 23:37 - Jesus Laments Over Jerusalem"); [Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hosea 1:4

And the LORD said unto him, Call his name Jezreel; for yet a little [while], and I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu, and will cause to cease the kingdom of the house of Israel.

Joel 2:19

Yea, the LORD will answer and say unto his people, Behold, I will send you corn, and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith: and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen:

Hosea 1:11

Then shall the children of Judah and the children of Israel be gathered together, and appoint themselves one head, and they shall come up out of the land: for great [shall be] the day of Jezreel.

Jeremiah 31:12

Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the LORD, for wheat, and for wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all.