Abstract

In a study of the complexity of the redaction of the Pentateuch, the Book
of Hosea plays an important role. This Book is a witness to many theological
motifs which are also found in the Torah. Nowadays, the opinion is generally
held that the Pentateuch is a predominantly post-exilic work, particularly in
relation to the patriarchs. However, if we assume that in fact the majority of
the text of Hosea was written in the eighth century B.C., it becomes evident
that many of the theological concepts were already known in the time of
Hosea. Particularly noteworthy is the idea of the creation of the People, their
election in the desert and their bringing out of Egypt. The prophet shows us
that the commandments of the Decalogue are a component of the covenant.
Noteworthy is the fact that there is a convergence of ideas between Hosea
and Deuteronomy, which is particularly exhibited in the common image of
father and son, and in the idea of God’s enduring love for his people. Hosea
also presents a lot of information about the patriarch Jacob, which indicates
that this figure has its own ancient history.