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Book of 1 Kings - Chapter 21 - Verse 26

21:26
And he did very abominably in following idols, according to all things as did the Amorites, whom the LORD cast out before the children of Israel.

Meaning

In this verse, the Bible is highlighting the sinful behavior of the people who turned away from worshipping the one true God and instead chose to follow idols like the Amorites. The Amorites were a pagan people who lived in Canaan before the children of Israel conquered the land with God's help. By mentioning that the people did very abominably in following idols just like the Amorites, the verse is emphasizing the severity of their actions and the depth of their unfaithfulness to God. The LORD had specifically commanded the Israelites to avoid idol worship and to remain loyal to Him alone. By following in the ways of the Amorites, the people were not only disobeying God's commands but also embracing a lifestyle that God had deemed as detestable. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of remaining faithful to Him.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the focus is on the actions of the idolaters and the comparison to the Amorites, who were considered enemies of the Israelites. The word "abominably" carries a strong connotation of disgust and moral repugnance, emphasizing the severity of the idolatry being committed. The use of idols as objects of worship was a direct violation of the first commandment given to the Israelites by God. By following idols, the individuals in question were not only abandoning the true God but also engaging in practices that were common among the Amorites, the very people whom the Lord had removed from the land due to their wickedness. The mention of the Amorites serves as a cautionary tale, warning the Israelites against falling into the same sinful patterns and facing similar consequences. This verse highlights the importance of staying faithful to God and avoiding the temptations of idolatry that can lead one astray from His commands.

American Standard Version

And he did very abominably in following idols, according to all that the Amorites did, whom Jehovah cast out before the children of Israel.)
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