Book of 1 Kings - Chapter 12 - Verse 29

In this verse, it is mentioned that one idol was placed in Bethel and another was placed in Dan. This action signifies the spread of idol worship and the corruption of the people in ancient Israel. Bethel was a significant religious site in Israel, initially established by Jacob after his dream of a ladder reaching to heaven. However, over time, the city of Bethel became a center for idolatry and false worship. Similarly, Dan was a city located in the northern part of Israel, and it also fell into idol worship, leading to the corruption of its inhabitants. The placement of idols in these cities highlights the spiritual decline of the Israelites and their departure from the one true God. This verse serves as a cautionary tale against the dangers of idolatry and the consequences of turning away from God.

In the verse "And he set the one in Bethel, and the other put he in Dan.", the theological interpretation of this passage reveals the significance of these two locations in biblical history. Bethel, meaning "house of God," was a key religious center in ancient Israel where Jacob had a significant encounter with God in Genesis 28. The placing of one of the golden calves in Bethel by King Jeroboam symbolizes idolatry and rebellion against God's commandments. On the other hand, Dan was located in the far north of Israel and was another site where Jeroboam placed a golden calf for the people to worship in disobedience to God. These actions highlight the moral decline and spiritual corruption that plagued the nation of Israel during this period. Word studies on the names of these locations further deepen our understanding of the biblical context and the lessons we can learn from the consequences of turning away from God.