Ezekiel 20:29 – “Then I said to them: What is this high place you go to?’ (It is called Bamah to this day.)”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, God confronts the Israelites about their use of high places for idol worship. The rhetorical question, “What is this high place you go to?” underscores God’s disapproval and highlights the people’s unfaithfulness. The reference to “Bamah” (which means “high place” in Hebrew) serves as a lasting reminder of their idolatry. This question challenges the Israelites to reflect on their actions and consider why they have turned away from God to pursue worship at these forbidden locations.
Historical Context
High places were elevated sites often used for pagan worship in the ancient Near East. Despite God’s commands to destroy these sites (Deuteronomy 12:2-3), the Israelites frequently adopted them for sacrifices, offerings, and rituals, even though this violated their covenant with God. These locations became symbols of rebellion and unfaithfulness, and their use persisted through much of Israel’s history. The continued reference to “Bamah” indicates that these practices left a lasting mark on the nation’s spiritual history.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of worshiping God in the way He commands, rather than following personal preferences or cultural influences. Idolatry is not just about the physical act of worship but about the heart’s attitude and loyalty. The Israelites’ use of high places represented a departure from God’s holiness and a rejection of His authority. God’s question in this verse reveals His desire for genuine, faithful worship from His people.
Literary Analysis
The use of a rhetorical question (“What is this high place you go to?”) invites reflection and emphasizes God’s disapproval. The parenthetical statement about the name “Bamah” provides historical and cultural context, showing how deeply ingrained these practices had become. The straightforward and direct tone reflects God’s frustration with His people’s persistent idolatry.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 12:4-6: God commands the Israelites to worship Him only in the place He designates, not at high places.
- 1 Kings 14:22-23: Judah is condemned for building high places and provoking God’s anger.
- 2 Kings 23:13: King Josiah destroys the high places as part of his reforms to restore proper worship.
- John 4:23-24: Jesus teaches that true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, not tied to specific locations.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, this verse challenges us to consider the “high places” in our own lives—areas where we have allowed cultural or personal preferences to take priority over faithful worship of God. It reminds us that true worship is not about external rituals or locations but about a heart fully devoted to God. This verse also calls us to examine whether we are compromising our faith by following the patterns of the world instead of God’s commands.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s confrontation of Israel’s idolatry reflects His deep love and desire for their undivided worship. He knows that idolatry leads to spiritual harm and separation from Him, and He calls them out of it for their own good. God’s question in this verse is not just one of judgment but also an invitation to repentance and restoration, showing His patience and faithfulness.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus fulfills God’s desire for true worship by teaching and demonstrating what it means to worship the Father in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus makes it possible for believers to approach God with pure hearts, free from the distractions and corruptions of idolatry. He calls His followers to forsake all rivals to God and live lives wholly devoted to Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there any “high places” in your life—things or practices that distract you from fully worshiping God?
- How does this verse challenge you to evaluate the focus and priorities of your worship?
- What does this passage teach you about God’s desire for genuine and faithful worship?
- How can you follow Jesus’ example of worshiping the Father in spirit and truth?
- In what ways can you remove “high places” from your life and encourage others to do the same?