The people of Samaria will fear
The people of Samaria tremble for the calf of Beth-aven, and both people and priests mourn over its departed glory.
This verse reveals how deeply their fear and devotion are tied to a doomed idol.
1Israel was a luxuriant vine, 2Their hearts are devious; 3Surely now they will say, 4They speak mere words; 5The people of Samaria will fear 6Yes, it will be carried to Assyria 7Samaria will be carried off with her king 8The high places of Aven will be destroyed— 9Since the days of Gibeah you have sinned, O Israel, 10I will chasten them when I please; 11Ephraim is a well-trained heifer that loves to thresh; 12Sow for yourselves righteousness 13You have plowed wickedness and reaped injustice; 14the roar of battle will rise against your people, 15Thus it will be done to you, O Bethel,