God told the prophet Hosea to marry a whore to symbolize the spiritual infidelity of Israel.  In their prosperity, the people had failed to give God thanks and had worshiped idols.  God still loved them, but He said that if they would not repent, they would not be His people and would not obtain mercy.  But in a future time, they will be His people once more and obtain mercy, and Christ will be their King. Hosea. VF-2542