King Hoshea chose to follow the evil practices of the kings, in Israel, before him. Collectively, the kings of Israel led the Israelites away from God and toward the pagan gods of other countries. Rather than seeking God’s guidance and protection, they began creating alliances with pagan cultures. In a power struggle among Israel, Judah, Aram (Syria) and Assyria, Hoshea joined a group of conspirators that assassinated King Pekah of Israel. King Tiglath-pileser of Assyria rewarded Hoshea by making him king of Israel; but, as a vassal, requiring Hoshea to pay an annual tribute to Assyria. When Tiglath-pileser died, his successor, King Shalmaneser V did not trust Hoshea. In a short time, Shalmaneser learned that Hoshea had entered into an alliance with Egypt. In a battle between Assyria and Israel that lasted three years, Samaria fell and Hoshea was taken prisoner. Many of the inhabitants of Israel were deported to Assyria. [Reflection is based on 2 Kings 17:1-23]