Hosea spoke for several decades around 740-720 BC after the prosperous reign of northern
Israel’s king Jeroboam II (786-745 BC). He prophesied during the days of Isaiah, Amos and
Micah and identified the coming enemy as Assyria. In these days the people forsook the
truth of God’s revelation to Israel, even though both northern Israel and southern Judah were experiencing tremendous economic prosperity and borders that extended to the largest
size since the days of Solomon (970 BC). Israel was living in luxury with ample gold and
silver and the three staple products of the Mediterranean climate:

Grain – wheat and corn
Grapes – raisins and wine
Olive – oil for food, oil for cosmetics,
oil for lamps, oil for religious rituals

In the midst of this prosperity the people willingly embraced the worship of Baal or the
many “Baals.” In Hosea Baal is often plural and translated “the Baals” (2:13, 17; 11:2).
So, the philosophy, morality and historical perspective embraced by Israel came from
these prominent Baals and their lesser underling deities:

Baal-Shamem –  “Lord of the heavens” who was called upon for rain and to end
droughts. He was often considered the highest God and the
supreme weather god.
Baal-Melqart – “Baal of Tyre” or “King of the City” who was known to the Greeks as
Heracles. He was the protector of cities. His death and resurrection
where celebrated annually. He produced wealth and fertility.
Baal Hadad – “rider of the clouds” or “mighty Baal” or “the prince, lord of the earth.” 
His consort is Astarte (Anat) and the land depended on his ability to bring rain.

During days of prosperity and luxury it is easy to embrace a false philosophy and accept
destructive morality if the Truth is not clearly identified, presented, proven and defended.