8:4 kings . . . princes. Israel’s independence from God in the political sphere was apparent in their refusal to consult God in their choice of leaders. This led to a series of conspiracies and violent assassinations (7:3–7; 2 Kin. 15:8–30). See Introduction: Date and Occasion.

idols. In making gods of silver and gold, Israel expressed her defiant rejection of the good (v. 5; Ex. 20:3–6; 34:17; Lev. 19:4).