Final answer:
Hosea 4:13 cites burning incense under trees as part of idolatrous practices by the Israelites. These practices were contrary to the teachings of Yahweh and reflected the religious syncretism of the time. Prophets, as in the book of Ezekiel, criticized these actions as unfaithful to God.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Hosea 4:13, the Israelites are described as burning incense under oaks, poplars, and terebinths as part of their idolatrous religious practices, which were contrary to the worship of Yahweh. This behavior is reflective of the syncretism prevalent in ancient Israeli society, merging Canaanite religious customs with their worship. This act of burning incense to other gods under trees was a direct violation of the monotheistic teachings that Yahweh demanded from the Israelites.
In the historical context, as the Israelites transitioned from an agricultural society to a more urban one, some of their religious practices also evolved. While certain agricultural traditions, such as those present during the festival of Sukkot, continued in a symbolic manner; other practices, including the worship of other gods represented by the act of burning incense under trees, were seen as a betrayal of their covenant with Yahweh.
These practices, often adopted from neighboring cultures, were strongly criticized by the prophets, who regarded them as a cause for divine punishment, as depicted in texts like Ezekiel (Ez) 6:12-13 and 20:26. The prophets' messages served as a call for the people to return to the exclusive worship of Yahweh and to abandon their idolatrous practices.