Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 17 - Verse 10

In this verse from the book of 2 Kings, the setting up of images and groves on high hills and under green trees refers to the pagan worship practices common in ancient Israel. The people of Israel were known to engage in idolatry, worshiping false gods and goddesses in defiance of the commandments of the one true God. These images and groves were likely used as places of worship, where the people would offer sacrifices and engage in rituals to honor their idols. The use of high hills and green trees for these practices symbolizes the elevation of these false deities above the true God, as well as the connection to nature worship prevalent in many ancient religions. This verse serves as a warning against straying from the worship of the true God and falling into the trap of idolatry, which often leads to spiritual and moral decline.

One key theological interpretation of this verse can be found in the context of ancient Canaanite and Israelite religious practices. The setting up of images and groves in high hills and under green trees was a common form of idol worship in the ancient Near East. It was believed that these natural settings provided access to the gods, and so people would create sacred spaces to offer worship and sacrifices. This verse emphasizes the pervasive nature of idolatry among the Israelites, as they even went to great lengths to establish these sites in remote locations. The use of the term "groves" can also refer to sacred trees or wooden poles, which were used in fertility cults. This verse serves as a warning against following the religious practices of the surrounding nations and serves as a reminder of the exclusive worship that the Israelites were called to offer to Yahweh alone.