Definition: In the day of our king the princes have made [him] sick with bottles of wine; he stretched out his hand with scorners.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Hosea 7:5. It's a really powerful and important message about judgment and repentance. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: The Princes are the Problem: The verse focuses on a group of princes – powerful rulers and officials – who were drinking excessively with wine. The Wine Makes Them Sick: This excessive drinking caused them to become ill, perhaps physically or emotionally. It’s like a sickness that stems from something harmful. They Scorned Each Other: The key part is that these princes weren't just drinking; they were being arrogant and disrespectful towards each other. They were dismissing and belittling one another – treating each other with contempt. What it Means in Terms of God’s Judgment: God is Watching: Hosea 7:5 suggests that God is observing this situation, noticing the wickedness and disrespect among these princes. Judgment is Coming: The verse implies that God is about to bring judgment on those who are so consumed by pride and contempt that they deserve punishment. It’s a warning – things aren't going to be good for them. It’s About Repentance: The word "sick" suggests that this isn’t just a physical illness; it’s a spiritual sickness of the heart. These princes need to repent (change their ways) and turn back to God. Overall Interpretation: This verse paints a picture of a kingdom or community filled with selfishness, arrogance, and disrespect. It's urging us to recognize that these behaviors are wrong and that we must change our own attitudes and actions if we want to be part of God’s Kingdom – a place of righteousness and peace. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and the importance of humility and seeking forgiveness. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you some context about Hosea? Talk more specifically about the themes in this verse (like repentance or forgiveness)?