Book of Isaiah - Chapter 57 - Verse 5

In this verse from the book of Isaiah, the prophet is condemning the people of Israel for their idolatry and pagan practices. The image of "enflaming yourselves with idols under every green tree" paints a picture of the Israelites worshiping false gods in the lush, natural surroundings. This signifies their abandonment of the true God and His commandments in favor of seeking fulfillment and guidance from man-made idols. The mention of "slaying the children in the valleys under the clifts of the rocks" is a grim reminder of the extreme lengths to which the people had gone in their worship, including sacrificing their own children to these idols. The prophet is expressing deep sorrow and disbelief at the horrendous acts committed by the Israelites in their pursuit of false gods. This verse serves as a powerful warning against turning away from the one true God and falling into the trap of idolatry and wickedness.

This verse from the book of Isaiah paints a vivid picture of the idolatry and child sacrifice that were prevalent in ancient times. The phrase "enflaming yourselves with idols" speaks to the passionate devotion that people had towards these false gods, leading them to engage in immoral and abhorrent practices. The mention of worshiping idols under every green tree highlights the widespread nature of idol worship during that era. Furthermore, the act of slaying children in the valleys under the cliffs of the rocks underscores the depths of depravity to which these idolaters had sunk. In terms of theological interpretation, this verse serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers of turning away from the one true God and giving in to the temptations of idolatry. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of abandoning moral and ethical values in pursuit of worldly desires. Through word studies, one can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical context in which these events took place, shedding light on the significance of idol worship and child sacrifice in ancient societies.