Charles Ellicott Commentary Hosea 4:7-8

"As they were multiplied, so they sinned against me: I will change their glory into shame. They feed on the sin of my people, and set their heart on their iniquity." — Hosea 4:7-8 (ASV)

The increase in numbers and prosperity probably refers to the priesthood, who, as they grew in numbers, became more alienated from the true God. They eat up, or fatten on, the very sins they ought to rebuke. This reference might pertain either to the portion of sacrificial offerings that was the priests' share, or (less probably) to the sin-money and trespass-money collected instead of sin offerings (2 Kings 12:16). (For more on the general condition of the priesthood at this time, see W. R. Smith, Prophets of Israel, pages 99–101.)