The various utterances in this section present a picture of terrible deterioration in Israel's worship and religious practices. Chapter 4: 11 and 18 refer to drunken orgies, perhaps at religious festivals to celebrate the grape harvest; 4: 12, 4: 17, S: 4 refer to the worship of idols; 4: 13-14 refers to pagan sacrifices (to Baal), and to cult prostitutes involved in fertility worship. Men and women alike sin. Chapter S: 6 reminds us of Amos 5 :21-23; God no longer wants the sacrifices offered in his name. Not only the priests and people are condemned for their sins, but also the royal family (S: 1). References to Judah as well as Israel indicate that the political division of the people into two kingdoms has not destroyed the idea of the people of God united in the covenant faith.