Damascus was the capital of Aram (modern day Syria). This was a busy trading city and Aram had been enemies with Israel. The modern day situation where most of the nations surrounding Israel are at odds with Israel to varying degrees is nothing new.
Aroer was on the southern border of Aram. Ephraim had made an alliance with Aram against Judah, hence its mention in these verses, and the prophecy then changes its attention and focuses on Israel (probably just the northern kingdom here). "The fat if his body will fade", now some may see this as a blessing! However, it meant that the years of plenty would vanish to be replaced by lack. The nation would be severely cut back, but not destroyed completely.
Verses 7 and 8 outline the purpose of all this, it is that men will stop looking to worthless idols and instead turn to the Lord who created them. When a people turn away from God waste and decay soon comes in. Even though they made the best plans to grow crops, the harvest would come to nothing.
People and nations boast, they pretend to be strong, but in reality are as weak as nothing. When the wrath of God is turned upon they become nothing.
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