Deuteronomy 12:2

Destroy completely all the places where the nations you are dispossessing have served their gods--atop the high mountains, on the hills, and under every green tree.

Study Bible

You must utterly destroy
The phrase "utterly destroy" in Hebrew is "הַאֲבֵד תְּאַבְּדוּן" (ha'aved te'abedun), which conveys a sense of complete annihilation. This command reflects the seriousness with which God viewed the idolatrous practices of the Canaanites. The Hebrew root "אבד" (abad) means to perish or destroy, emphasizing the totality of the action required. Historically, this command was given to prevent the Israelites from being led astray by the pagan practices of the land they were entering. It underscores the need for purity and devotion to God, free from the corrupting influences of idolatry.

all the places
This phrase indicates the comprehensive nature of the command. "All the places" refers to every location where idolatrous worship was practiced. The Hebrew word for "places" is "מָקוֹם" (makom), which can mean a physical location or a more abstract space. Archaeologically, this would include high places, groves, and altars scattered throughout the land. The command to destroy these places highlights the importance of removing all traces of idolatry to establish a land dedicated solely to the worship of Yahweh.

where the nations you are dispossessing
The nations referred to are the Canaanite tribes inhabiting the Promised Land before the arrival of the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "nations" is "גּוֹיִם" (goyim), often used to describe non-Israelite peoples. Historically, these nations practiced various forms of idolatry and pagan rituals. The term "dispossessing" indicates the divine mandate given to Israel to take possession of the land, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham. This phrase serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His covenant promises.

worship their gods
The act of worship here is central to the command. The Hebrew word "עָבַד" (avad) means to serve or worship, indicating a deep, devoted practice. The "gods" mentioned are the false deities of the Canaanites, such as Baal and Asherah. Scripturally, this highlights the first commandment, which forbids the worship of other gods. The Israelites were to be distinct in their worship, serving only Yahweh. This phrase underscores the spiritual battle against idolatry and the call to exclusive devotion to the one true God.

on the high mountains and on the hills and under every green tree
This description provides a vivid picture of the widespread nature of Canaanite worship practices. "High mountains" and "hills" were often chosen for altars and shrines due to their elevation, believed to be closer to the gods. "Under every green tree" suggests the use of groves or sacred trees in worship, a common practice in ancient Near Eastern religions. The specificity of these locations emphasizes the thoroughness required in eradicating idolatry. Spiritually, it serves as a metaphor for rooting out sin and false worship from every area of life, ensuring that no part of one's devotion is compromised.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are being instructed to purify the land they are about to inhabit.

3. Canaan
The land that the Israelites are entering, which is currently inhabited by nations practicing idolatry.

4. High Places
Elevated sites where pagan worship was commonly practiced, often associated with idolatry.

5. Pagan Nations
The current inhabitants of Canaan, who worship false gods and whose practices are to be eradicated by the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Purity of Worship
God desires pure worship, free from the influence of idolatry. Just as the Israelites were to destroy pagan sites, Christians are called to remove anything that competes with God for their devotion.

Separation from Sin
The command to destroy idolatrous places underscores the importance of separating from sin and anything that leads us away from God.

Obedience to God
The Israelites' success in the Promised Land was contingent upon their obedience to God's commands, including the destruction of high places. Similarly, our spiritual success is linked to our obedience to God's Word.

Vigilance Against Idolatry
Idolatry can take many forms today, not just physical idols. Believers must be vigilant in identifying and removing anything that takes precedence over God in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "high places" or idols that can distract us from worshiping God wholeheartedly?

2. How can we apply the principle of destroying idolatrous influences in our personal lives today?

3. In what ways does the New Testament reinforce the call to separate from idolatry and sin?

4. How does the command to destroy pagan worship sites reflect God's holiness and desire for a holy people?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our worship remains pure and focused solely on God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:13
This verse also commands the Israelites to tear down altars and destroy sacred stones, emphasizing the need to remove idolatry.

2 Kings 23:13-14
King Josiah's reforms included destroying high places, demonstrating obedience to God's command in Deuteronomy.

1 Corinthians 10:14
Paul advises believers to flee from idolatry, echoing the Old Testament's call to separate from pagan practices.

Ephesians 5:11
Believers are instructed to have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, similar to the call to destroy idolatrous sites.