Definition: "Hosea 2:3" is a phrase that originated from the Bible's book of Hebrews where Hosea (who was also a prophet) addresses God regarding Israel's oppression and mistreatment by Assyria.

The literal translation reads: "Now, behold, I am in travail; how can I go forth to bring my people into the land they have received? [God has] set them down among the nations: where is their king?" (v. 3) This verse was originally meant for Hosea's own sorrow and anguish over his nation's oppression, but it quickly gained popularity due to its use in mocking Israel. The phrase "Hosea 2:3" became a symbol of Israel's suffering and humiliation under Assyria. Here is an edgy example sentence using this slang term: "I have been through so much, how can I go forth to bring my people into the land they have received? [God has] set them down among the nations: where is their king?" (v. 3) This metaphorical statement of Israel's suffering and oppression against their Assyrian oppressor implies that God does not hold Israel accountable for his actions, which is a stark contrast to the biblical narrative in which Israel was called to defend themselves from enemies who would harm them. This verse effectively mocks the Israelite worldview and presents a nuanced critique of the biblical narrative.