Matthew Poole and continuators on Hosea 4:16

16 For Israel slideth back, as a backsliding heifer : now the LORD will feed them as a lamb in a large place .

There is just cause why Iudah should not imitate Israel, and this cause is here assigned.

The ten Tribes.

Grown lusty, fed and wanton, will neither endure the yoke to work, nor be confined in her allowed Pastures, breaks over all bounds, casts off all service, so is Israel, as verse 7. which see.

Ere long, or suddenly, so chap. 2. ver. 10.

Offended by their sins, and provoked to displeasure.

In their sinning they were like an untamed heifer, boundless, strong, and stood upon their defence, but in their punishments, they shall be like a lamb, solitary, full of fears, in a large place or Wilderness, where no rest, safety or provision: Such shall be the condition of the ten captivated Tribes. This is a Proverbial speech, setting forth the forlorn state, which Israel ere long should fall under.