Ezekiel 20:29

So I asked them: 'What is this high place to which you go?' (And to this day it is called Bamah.)

Study Bible

Then I asked them
This phrase indicates a direct communication from God through the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew root for "asked" is "שָׁאַל" (sha'al), which implies a seeking or inquiring. This reflects God's desire for a relationship with His people, where He engages them in dialogue, even when they are in rebellion. It underscores the patience and persistence of God in reaching out to His people, inviting them to reflect on their actions and return to Him.

What is this high place to which you go?
The term "high place" is translated from the Hebrew "בָּמָה" (bamah), which refers to elevated sites used for worship, often of pagan deities. Historically, these were locations where the Israelites engaged in idolatrous practices, contrary to God's commandments. The question posed by God is rhetorical, meant to provoke self-examination among the Israelites. It highlights the contrast between God's holy worship and the corrupt practices adopted by the people, urging them to recognize the futility and sinfulness of their actions.

(So it is called Bamah to this day.)
The parenthetical note serves as a historical marker, indicating that the name "Bamah" persisted as a reminder of Israel's idolatrous past. The phrase "to this day" suggests that the consequences of their actions had a lasting impact, serving as a cautionary tale for future generations. It emphasizes the enduring nature of God's word and the importance of remembering past mistakes to avoid repeating them. This serves as a call to faithfulness and a return to true worship, aligning with God's covenantal expectations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites, often involving judgment and calls for repentance.

2. Israelites
The people of God who are being addressed in this passage. They have a history of turning away from God and worshiping idols.

3. Bamah
A Hebrew term meaning "high place," often associated with pagan worship sites where the Israelites engaged in idolatry.

4. High Places
Locations often on elevated ground where the Israelites and other ancient Near Eastern peoples would worship deities other than Yahweh.

5. God's Inquiry
God questions the Israelites about their idolatrous practices, highlighting their disobedience and the ongoing issue of idol worship.

Teaching Points

Understanding Idolatry
Recognize that idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but anything that takes the place of God in our lives. Reflect on modern "high places" that may distract us from true worship.

God's Call to Repentance
God consistently calls His people to turn away from idolatry and return to Him. This is a reminder of His grace and desire for a relationship with us.

The Danger of Compromise
The Israelites' use of high places shows how easily God's people can compromise their faith. We must be vigilant in maintaining our devotion to God alone.

Historical Context and Relevance
Understanding the historical context of high places helps us see the seriousness of idolatry in the biblical account and its relevance today.

Self-Examination
Regularly examine your life for any "high places" that may have crept in, and take steps to remove them, prioritizing your relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "high places" that can distract us from our relationship with God, and how can we identify them in our lives?

2. How does understanding the historical context of high places in Israel's history help us apply this passage to our lives today?

3. In what ways does God call us to repentance in our own lives, and how can we respond to His call?

4. How can we guard against the subtle compromises that lead us away from true worship of God?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to remove a "high place" from your life. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 14:23
This verse discusses the Israelites building high places, sacred stones, and Asherah poles, which connects to the idolatrous practices mentioned in Ezekiel 20:29.

Jeremiah 7:31
This passage condemns the building of high places in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, showing the severity of idolatry in Israel's history.

2 Chronicles 28:4
King Ahaz's worship at high places is another example of Israel's leaders leading the people into idolatry.