The addressees of this command are not identified, though it is likely that the appeal is being made to every Israelite (see Hosea 2:2). In keeping with Hosea 1:10–11, Hosea is declaring God’s gracious and glorious reversal of his judgment against his people.1 But Hosea will shift back in Hosea 2:2 to warn Israel of God’s impending judgment for their infidelity. The prophet exhorts God’s people to celebrate God’s ultimate promises, which are not contained in the naming of Hosea’s children (Hosea 1:4, Hosea 1:6, Hosea 1:9). Instead he will make them his people, showing them mercy, and gathering them to himself.
1 Say to your brothers, “You are my people,” and to your sisters, “You have received mercy.”