Cross-references Explore similar Bible verses on Hosea 6:6 in English Standard Version "For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings." 1Sa 15:22 And Samuel said, “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams. Ho 2:20 I will betroth you to me in faithfulness. And you shall know the Lord. Mt 9:13 Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” Mt 12:7 And if you had known what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned the guiltless.