The Book of Hosea
Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia
—the first among the books of the Minor Prophets. It consists of fourteen chapters and is found without alteration in all ancient manuscripts and complete translations of the Old Testament. Its recognition as inspired by the Hebrew synagogue is confirmed by New Testament writers. Hosea 11:1 is quoted in Matthew 2:15 as spoken by the prophet concerning the Lord. The Lord Himself twice refers to Hosea, in Matthew 9:13 and 12:7. Paul names him in Romans 9:25–26, and Peter clearly alludes to him in 1 Peter 2:10. The book may be dated between 786 and 726 BC. Its first three chapters describe symbolic actions; the remaining eleven consist chiefly of prophecies.