Matthew Poole and continuators on Hosea 8:14

14 For Israel hath forgotten his Maker , and buildeth temples : and Judah hath multiplied fenced cities : but I will send a fire upon his cities , and it shall devour the palaces thereof.

The ten revolted Idolatrous Tribes.

The same with chap. 2.8. which see; or chap. 4.1. and 6. ver. Either remembers not at all, or 'tis without love, thankfulness and consideration what becomes him towards God.

Who made, who preserved, who advanced them and gave them all those priviledges wherein they excel other nations, who brought them out of Egypt, &c.

The word will bear Palaces, or Towers. It is like their Idol-Temples were Magnificent that they might boast of them, and strong like towers that they might for need Garrison and Fortifie them, and trust in their strength in a day of War and trouble.

On like designs and motives doth Iudah multiply strong holds fortifying against threatned Judgments, making flesh their arm whilest their heart (as at this time of Ahaz his Reign and Apostacy) did depart from the living God.

Bring an enemy upon them that shall besiege them in their Cities, and burn them which was effected by Nebuchadnezzar and his Armies about 130 years after.

The stately Palaces of their Princes and Nobles in their Cities, these shall be burnt too, Iudah hath imitated Israel, and made himself like to Israel in sin, and God will make them like in sufferings; the Fire which their sin hath kindled, shall consume both.