### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term **Lôʼ ʻAmmîy**, represented by `{{H3818}}`, is a symbolic name meaning **not my people**. Derived from the Hebrew words for "not" and "people," it appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. It is used exclusively in the book of Hosea as the name given to the prophet's son to signify God's judgment upon Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its first appearance, God commands the prophet to name his son **Loammi** `{{H3818}}`, stating explicitly, "for ye are not my **people** `{{H5971}}`, and I will not be your God" [[Hosea 1:9]]. This act of naming serves as a direct and powerful declaration of a broken covenant. However, the concept is dramatically reversed later, when God promises a future restoration. He says He will **sow** `{{H2232}}` His people in the **earth** `{{H776}}` and will **have mercy** `{{H7355}}` on them, saying "to them which were not my **people** `{{H5971}}`, Thou art my **people** `{{H5971}}`" [[Hosea 2:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the judgment and restoration associated with `{{H3818}}`:
* `{{H5971}}` **`ʻam`** (a people): This is the core term negated by `{{H3818}}`. It refers to Israel as a congregated unit that God is temporarily disowning [[Hosea 1:9]] but will one day reclaim [[Hosea 2:23]].
* `{{H7121}}` **`qârâʼ`** (to call): This word is used for the command to **call** the son's **name** `{{H8034}}` Loammi, highlighting the performative and prophetic nature of the declaration [[Hosea 1:9]].
* `{{H7355}}` **`râcham`** (to have mercy): This concept is set in direct opposition to the judgment of Lo-ammi. The promise of future restoration is centered on God choosing to once again **have mercy** `{{H7355}}` upon those who "had not obtained mercy" [[Hosea 2:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3818}}` is concentrated in the prophetic narrative of Hosea.
* **Symbolic Judgment:** The name is not merely a label but a living prophecy, a stark symbol of God's response to Israel's unfaithfulness. It represents the temporary withdrawal of His covenantal favor [[Hosea 1:9]].
* **Broken Covenant:** The phrase "not my people" is a reversal of the foundational covenant promise. By declaring this, God illustrates the severity of the nation's sin and the consequences of their actions.
* **Promise of Restoration:** The significance of `{{H3818}}` is ultimately found in its reversal. The prophecy that God will say to "not my people" that they are now "my people" is a powerful message of hope, grace, and God's sovereign power to restore a broken relationship [[Hosea 2:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3818}}` **Lôʼ ʻAmmîy** is a profound theological term encapsulated in a symbolic name. It represents a moment of severe covenantal judgment declared by God through Hosea. Yet, it simultaneously sets the stage for one of scripture's most poignant promises: that God, in His mercy, will reclaim and restore those He had declared to be "not my people."
TRV