To say that Israel “did not know” might sound strange to our ears, as if they were ignorant or unaware of God’s blessings. But since this is the same woman (representing Israel) who had intentionally pursued other lovers despite knowing that she was bound to another man, this cannot be the meaning.1 Thus, Israel had consciously chosen to forget their covenant God. In doing so, they wrongly attributed the source of their wealth and fertility to the Baals. Therefore, the verb “to know” is covenant language. Their not knowing was a choice to withhold their loyalty, love, and obedience to God.2 They have become enamoured by the gifts and forgotten the Giver, just as Deuteronomy 8:11–19 warned. When that happens, idolatry rushes in to fill the void.
8 And she did not know that it was I who gave her the grain, the wine, and the oil, and who lavished on her silver and gold, which they used for Baal.