Exodus 34:13 – “Break down their altars, smash their sacred stones and cut down their Asherah poles.”
Extended Explanation
In Exodus 34:13, God commands the Israelites to take decisive action against the religious practices of the nations occupying the Promised Land. The verse specifically instructs them to destroy altars, sacred stones, and Asherah poles—objects associated with the worship of false gods. This command is not just about physical destruction but symbolizes the rejection and elimination of anything that could lead the Israelites away from the worship of the one true God. By removing these objects, the Israelites would prevent the temptation to adopt the idolatrous practices of the surrounding nations.
Historical Context
This command was given to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the land of Canaan, which was inhabited by various peoples with their own religious systems. The Canaanites and other groups worshiped a variety of gods, with Baal and Asherah being among the most prominent. Asherah poles were wooden symbols representing the goddess Asherah, often placed near altars dedicated to Baal. God knew that if these symbols and places of worship were allowed to remain, they would be a snare to the Israelites, leading them into idolatry. The command to destroy these objects was part of God’s broader plan to establish a pure and holy community in the land He had promised to His people.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights God’s intolerance of idolatry and His demand for exclusive worship. The destruction of altars, sacred stones, and Asherah poles represents the Israelites’ commitment to God and their rejection of all other deities. This command reflects the first commandment, “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3), emphasizing that God alone is worthy of worship. It also underscores the importance of purity in worship; anything that compromises the exclusive devotion to God must be removed.
Literary Analysis
The verse employs strong, active verbs—”break down,” “smash,” and “cut down”—which convey the intensity and urgency of the command. The use of these verbs creates a vivid image of complete and thorough destruction, leaving no room for compromise or partial obedience. This literary approach emphasizes the seriousness of the command and the need for decisive action. The specific mention of altars, sacred stones, and Asherah poles ties the command to the actual practices of the Canaanites, making the command clear and concrete for the Israelites.
Biblical Cross-References
Several other passages in Scripture echo the command given in Exodus 34:13. Deuteronomy 7:5 reiterates the need to break down altars, smash sacred stones, and cut down Asherah poles. In 2 Kings 18:4, we see King Hezekiah carrying out this command by removing the high places, smashing the sacred stones, and cutting down the Asherah poles, demonstrating faithfulness to God’s instructions. Similarly, Judges 6:25-27 describes how Gideon obeyed God’s command to tear down his father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it, leading to a spiritual renewal among the people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 34:13 serves as a powerful reminder to remove anything from our lives that competes with or detracts from our devotion to God. While we may not have physical altars or Asherah poles, there are modern equivalents—habits, relationships, or material possessions—that can become idols in our lives. This verse challenges us to examine our hearts and take radical steps to eliminate anything that hinders our relationship with God. It calls us to prioritize our faith and to be vigilant in maintaining purity in our worship.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This command, while seemingly harsh, is rooted in God’s love and desire for the well-being of His people. God knows that idolatry leads to spiritual destruction, and by commanding the Israelites to remove these temptations, He is protecting them from the harm that comes from turning away from Him. God’s love is expressed in His desire for an exclusive, intimate relationship with His people—a relationship that brings life, blessing, and fulfillment. Just as a loving parent sets boundaries to protect their child, God sets boundaries to keep His people safe from spiritual harm.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 34:13 connects to Jesus Christ in that it foreshadows the work of Christ in purifying His people. Just as the Israelites were called to remove idolatry from their midst, Jesus calls His followers to a life of purity and wholehearted devotion to God. Jesus’ cleansing of the temple (Matthew 21:12-13) is a powerful example of His commitment to true worship, free from corruption and idolatry. Additionally, Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross broke the power of sin and idolatry, enabling believers to live in freedom and purity. Colossians 3:5 urges Christians to “put to death” whatever belongs to their earthly nature, echoing the call to destroy anything that takes the place of God in our lives.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What “altars” or “Asherah poles” in your life might be competing with your devotion to God?
- How can you take practical steps to remove anything that hinders your relationship with God?
- In what ways does God’s command in this verse reflect His love and care for your spiritual well-being?
- How does Jesus’ example of purity in worship challenge you to examine your own life?
- What does it mean for you to “put to death” anything that belongs to your earthly nature, as instructed in Colossians 3:5?