In the biblical context, "high hills" and "leafy trees" often symbolize places of worship, both legitimate and idolatrous. These natural features are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as sites where people would gather for religious ceremonies, sacrifices, and offerings.

High Hills

High hills, or "high places," are recurrently mentioned in the Bible as locations where both the Israelites and surrounding nations conducted worship. These elevated sites were often chosen for their proximity to the heavens, symbolizing a closer connection to the divine. However, the use of high hills for worship is predominantly associated with idolatry and pagan practices.

In the Book of Kings, we see a recurring theme of the Israelites being led astray by the allure of high places. For instance, 1 Kings 14:23 states, "For they also built for themselves high places, sacred pillars, and Asherah poles on every high hill and under every green tree." These high places were often used for the worship of foreign gods, which was strictly forbidden by the Mosaic Law.

Despite their association with idolatry, high places were not always condemned. Before the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, high places were sometimes used for the worship of Yahweh. For example, the prophet Samuel offered sacrifices at high places (1 Samuel 9:12-14). However, once the Temple was established, worship at high places was considered illegitimate, as centralized worship in Jerusalem was commanded.

Leafy Trees

Leafy trees, often referred to as "green trees" in the Bible, are similarly associated with idolatrous practices. These trees provided shade and a sense of sacredness, making them attractive sites for worship. The phrase "under every green tree" is frequently used to describe locations where the Israelites engaged in idolatry, as seen in 2 Kings 17:10: "They set up for themselves sacred pillars and Asherah poles on every high hill and under every green tree."

The use of leafy trees in worship is often linked to the Canaanite religious practices that the Israelites were warned against. These trees were sometimes associated with the goddess Asherah, and the worship conducted under them often involved rituals that were abhorrent to the God of Israel.

The prophets repeatedly condemned the use of high hills and leafy trees for idolatrous worship. Jeremiah 2:20 highlights this, saying, "For long ago you broke your yoke and tore off your bonds, saying, 'I will not serve!' Indeed, on every high hill and under every green tree you lay down as a prostitute."

Theological Implications

The frequent biblical references to high hills and leafy trees serve as a reminder of the Israelites' struggle with idolatry and the temptation to adopt the religious practices of surrounding nations. These natural sites symbolize the tension between the worship of the one true God and the allure of pagan rituals. The biblical narrative consistently calls the people of God to reject these practices and to worship Him in the manner He prescribed, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and obedience to His commandments.