The affliction of Israel - This refers to what the Israelites had suffered for two reigns at the hands of the Syrians ([Reference 2 Kings 10…

Affliction. —Better, oppression.

Bitter. —So the Septuagint, Syriac, and Vulgate Better, stubb…

For the Lord saw the affliction of Israel, that it was very
bitter
Being sorely oppres…

God raised up the prophet Jonah, and by him declared the purposes of His favor to Israel. It is a sign that God has not cast off His people if He c…