Judah's actions were seen as evil in the sight of God, indicating a departure from the covenant and commandments that were meant to guide them. This period marked a significant moral and spiritual decline, as the people engaged in practices that were contrary to God's will. The verse underscores the seriousness of their actions by noting that they provoked God's jealous anger more than previous generations. This suggests a cumulative effect of sin, where the continued disobedience and idolatry of the people led to greater consequences.
The mention of God's 'jealous anger' reflects His desire for an exclusive relationship with His people, free from idolatry and unfaithfulness. This serves as a cautionary tale for believers to remain vigilant in their faith, avoiding the pitfalls of complacency and cultural influences that lead away from God's teachings. It encourages introspection and a return to sincere worship and obedience, emphasizing that God's love and guidance are central to a life of spiritual fulfillment.