2 Chronicles 28:4

And he sacrificed and burned incense on the high places, on the hills, and under every green tree.

Study Bible

And he sacrificed
The act of sacrificing in ancient Israel was a deeply significant religious practice, often involving the offering of animals or other goods to God. In the Hebrew context, the word for "sacrifice" is "זָבַח" (zabach), which implies a ritualistic slaughter. This verse highlights the deviation of King Ahaz from the prescribed worship of Yahweh, as he engaged in pagan practices. Sacrificing to other gods was a direct violation of the first commandment, which underscores the exclusivity of worship due to the Lord alone. This act of sacrifice to false gods represents a profound spiritual adultery and a turning away from the covenant relationship with God.

and burned incense
Burning incense was a common practice in ancient religious rituals, symbolizing prayers rising to the deity. The Hebrew word "קָטַר" (qatar) is used here, indicating the act of burning incense as an offering. In the context of Israelite worship, incense was to be burned in the temple as a pleasing aroma to the Lord (Exodus 30:7-8). However, Ahaz's use of incense in unauthorized places reflects his syncretism and the adoption of pagan customs. This misuse of incense highlights the corruption of true worship and the blending of sacred practices with idolatrous ones, which was detestable to God.

on the high places
High places, or "בָּמוֹת" (bamot) in Hebrew, were elevated sites often used for worship in ancient Canaanite religion. These locations were typically chosen for their height, believed to be closer to the gods. Despite God's command to destroy such places (Deuteronomy 12:2-3), they persisted in Israel and Judah as centers of idolatrous worship. Ahaz's use of high places signifies his departure from centralized worship in Jerusalem and the temple, which was the designated place for sacrifices to Yahweh. This act of worship at high places represents a rejection of God's ordained order and a return to pagan practices.

on the hills
The mention of "hills" further emphasizes the widespread nature of Ahaz's idolatry. Hills, like high places, were often associated with pagan worship. The Hebrew word "גִּבְעוֹת" (gib'ot) suggests natural elevations used for religious rites. This practice was common among the surrounding nations, and Ahaz's participation indicates his assimilation into their religious customs. Worship on hills was a direct challenge to the centralization of worship in Jerusalem and a violation of the covenant, which called for exclusive devotion to Yahweh.

and under every green tree
The phrase "under every green tree" is a vivid depiction of the pervasive idolatry in Judah. The Hebrew "תַּחַת כָּל־עֵץ רַעֲנָן" (tachat kol-etz ra'anan) suggests a widespread and indiscriminate practice of idol worship. Green trees were often associated with fertility cults and the worship of nature deities. This imagery conveys the extent of Ahaz's apostasy, as he engaged in idolatrous practices in every conceivable location. The use of natural settings for worship highlights the allure of pagan religions, which often promised prosperity and fertility, contrasting with the true worship of Yahweh, which required faithfulness and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ahaz
The king of Judah during this time, known for his idolatrous practices and turning away from the worship of Yahweh.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Ahaz reigned. It was meant to be a place of worship for Yahweh but was led astray by Ahaz.

3. High Places
Elevated sites often used for idol worship, contrary to the centralized worship in Jerusalem as commanded by God.

4. Hills and Green Trees
Common locations for pagan rituals and idol worship, symbolizing the widespread nature of Ahaz's apostasy.

5. Idolatry
The central event and sin in this passage, where Ahaz led the people away from God to worship false gods.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to spiritual decay and separation from God. Ahaz's actions serve as a warning against allowing anything to take God's rightful place in our lives.

The Importance of Obedience
God desires obedience to His commands. Ahaz's failure to follow God's instructions regarding worship highlights the importance of adhering to God's Word.

Leadership and Influence
Leaders have a significant impact on the spiritual direction of their people. Ahaz's idolatry led Judah astray, reminding us of the responsibility leaders have to guide others toward God.

The Consequences of Sin
Sin has consequences, both personally and communally. Ahaz's idolatry brought judgment upon Judah, illustrating the broader impact of personal sin.

The Call to Repentance
Despite Ahaz's unfaithfulness, God's call to repentance remains open. This passage encourages us to turn back to God, no matter how far we have strayed.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ahaz's idolatry reflect the spiritual state of Judah during his reign, and what can we learn from this about the influence of leadership?

2. In what ways do modern "high places" or idols manifest in our lives today, and how can we actively work to remove them?

3. How does the command in Deuteronomy 12 to destroy high places relate to our call to eliminate sin from our lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure our worship remains centered on God and not on worldly influences?

5. How can we encourage repentance and a return to God in our communities, drawing from the lessons learned from Ahaz's reign?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12:2-3
God commands the Israelites to destroy the high places and not worship as the pagans do, highlighting the disobedience of Ahaz.

1 Kings 14:23
Similar practices of idol worship under every green tree are mentioned, showing a recurring pattern of sin in Israel's history.

Isaiah 1:29-30
Isaiah condemns the people for their idolatry under the oaks and gardens, which parallels the practices of Ahaz.

Jeremiah 2:20
Jeremiah speaks against Israel's idolatry under every green tree, reinforcing the theme of unfaithfulness to God.