4:4 Bethel . . . Gilgal. These were important sites in the earlier history of Israel; Bethel was a sanctuary during the period of the judges, and Samuel judged both there and at Gilgal (1 Sam. 7:16). They were also centers of syncretistic worship during the period of the divided kingdom (5:5).

every three days. Although the Hebrew word for “day” can stand for a year or for an unspecified longer period (Gen. 1:5 note), three literal days seem to be meant here. Israel’s religious observances go even beyond what the law required. Though enthusiastic about ritual, they had no living relationship with God.