Gomer wife of Hosea

Gomer, the wife of the prophet Hosea in the 8th century BC, is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible's Book of Hosea (1:3). She is described as a promiscuous woman or prostitute in various translations but was divinely appointed for Hosea to marry. Gomer is also noted as the daughter of Diblaim.

Hosea and Gomer have three children with symbolic names reflecting God's relationship with Israel: Jezreel, Lo-Ruhamah, and Lo-Ammi. While the latter two are not explicitly stated to be Hosea's, it is considered unlikely they resulted from adultery. Later, in Hosea 3:1, Gomer is described as an adulteress loved by another man. Hosea redeems her for 15 shekels and a quantity of barley.

Gomer's story has inspired numerous cultural references. The film *The Milky Way* features a prostitute with symbolically named children. Brooke Fraser’s song "Hosea's Wife" and Third Day’s "Gomer's Theme" are musical tributes, with the latter inspiring fan identification as "Gomers." Francine Rivers’ novel *Redeeming Love* and Mesu Andrews’ *Love In A Broken Vessel* adapt her story. Michael Card’s "Song Of Gomer," Robert DeLong’s lyrics in "Mud in My Eyes," and Bob Dylan’s allusions in "Key West (Philosopher Pirate)" also reference her. Films like *Walk on the Wild Side*, *Left Luggage*, and *Amazing Love* draw from her narrative, with the latter retelling Hosea's story prominently featuring Gomer.