The phrase "those who sacrifice in gardens" is found in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Isaiah. This expression is used to describe individuals who engage in idolatrous practices, often in direct opposition to the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. The gardens mentioned are likely sacred groves or high places where pagan rituals were performed, a common practice among the surrounding nations of ancient Israel.

Biblical Context

In Isaiah 65:3, the prophet Isaiah conveys God's displeasure with the Israelites who have turned away from Him to engage in pagan worship: "These people continually provoke Me to My face, sacrificing in gardens and burning incense on altars of brick." . This verse highlights the rebellious nature of the Israelites who, despite being chosen by God, adopt the religious customs of their neighbors, thereby provoking God's wrath.

The gardens are symbolic of fertility cults and nature worship, which were prevalent in Canaanite religion. These practices often involved rituals that were abhorrent to the God of Israel, including the worship of Baal and Asherah, deities associated with fertility and the natural world. The use of gardens for such sacrifices indicates a deliberate choice to forsake the prescribed worship at the Temple in Jerusalem, where sacrifices were to be made according to the Law of Moses.

Historical and Cultural Background

The ancient Near Eastern context provides insight into why gardens were chosen as sites for sacrifices. Gardens, often lush and secluded, were seen as places where the divine could be encountered. The Canaanites, among others, believed that their gods inhabited these natural settings, making them ideal locations for worship and sacrifice. The Israelites, influenced by these surrounding cultures, sometimes adopted these practices, despite the clear prohibitions in the Mosaic Law.

The Law explicitly forbade the worship of other gods and the use of high places or groves for sacrifices. Deuteronomy 12:2-4 commands the Israelites to destroy all the places where the nations they dispossess worship their gods, whether on high mountains, hills, or under spreading trees. The persistence of these practices among the Israelites is a recurring theme in the prophetic books, where prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel call the people back to exclusive worship of Yahweh.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the act of sacrificing in gardens represents a breach of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It signifies a turning away from the worship of the one true God to the worship of false gods, which is seen as spiritual adultery. The prophets consistently warn that such actions lead to judgment and exile, as they are a violation of the first commandment: "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3).

The practice also reflects a deeper issue of the heart, where the people of Israel are drawn to the tangible and immediate allure of pagan rituals rather than the faith and obedience required in worshiping an unseen God. This idolatry is not merely a physical act but a spiritual defection, indicating a lack of trust and faithfulness to Yahweh.

Prophetic Critique and Call to Repentance

The prophets, including Isaiah, serve as God's messengers, calling the people to repentance and a return to true worship. Isaiah 66:17 further condemns those who "consecrate and purify themselves to enter the groves, following after one in the midst, eating the flesh of pigs and rats and other abominable things—they will meet their end together with the one they follow, declares the LORD" . This passage underscores the severity of the sin and the inevitable judgment that follows.

The prophetic critique is not merely about external practices but addresses the underlying spiritual infidelity. The call to repentance is an invitation to restore the covenant relationship with God, emphasizing His mercy and willingness to forgive those who turn back to Him with sincere hearts.

In summary, "those who sacrifice in gardens" serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of idolatry and the importance of faithfulness to God. The prophetic literature of the Old Testament consistently calls God's people to reject pagan practices and to worship Him alone, in spirit and truth.