Final answer:
According to Hosea 4:17, 'Ephraim is joined to idols,' reflecting the Bible's condemnation of idolatry as seen in Exodus and Ezekiel. This indicator of unfaithfulness to Yahweh resulted in severe consequences and reforms by leaders like King Hezekiah.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Hosea 4:17, 'Ephraim is joined to idols'. The message throughout the Bible, especially in the Old Testament, consistently condemns idolatry, as seen in Exodus 20:4-5 and other passages where the Israelites are admonished for turning away from Yahweh to worship idols. Idolatry is associated with betraying God, which leads to dire consequences like those described in Ezekiel 6:12-13 and Ezekiel 9:4-6. Additionally, biblical figures such as King Hezekiah took actions to reform and remove idol worship, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the worship of Yahweh alone in the history of the Hebrew people.