Hosea was the first of the twelve minor prophets in the Hebrew Bible. He was active during the reign of Jeroboam II, King of Israel, and his prophecies were written down in the Book of Hosea. His message was one of repentance and warning against idolatry and other sins. He is remembered for his passionate love for his unfaithful wife, Gomer, which is seen as a metaphor for God's love for his people.