Hosea 3

God commands Hosea to redeem Gomer (the unfaithful wife) from her latest lover and bring her back, though she must remain separated from Hosea for a long period. This symbolizes God's enduring love for the unfaithful people of Israel. God vows that the children of Israel will dwell for many days without a king or prince, without sacrifice or altar, signifying their long spiritual absence. Afterward, they will return and seek the Lord their God and David their King (the Messiah).