Matthew Poole and continuators on Hosea 8:4

4 They have set up kings , but not by me : they have made princes , and I knew it not : of their silver and their gold have they made them idols , that they may be cut off .

Israel the prevailing faction among them in Hosea's time.

Shallum, Menahem, Pekah and Hoshea, who usurpt the Throne.

Not by my direction, or with my approbation, they neither pray'd his blessing, nor askt his leave. And this may be applyed to the very first founding of the Kingdom of Israel, divided from the house of David.

Rulers and Magistrates, or Nobles.

He that will not approve any one evil when his omniscience discerns all, is pleased to say, he knew not what he did not approve.

Heathen like they have made them Gods, and set up Idolatry, so have perverted all in Church and State setled by me.

As if they were resolved to cut themselves off from being a people. By this they thought to establish themselves, but 'twill be quite contrary, these sins will be their ruin.

Marginal references: Chap. [illegible: 1 span]