# high places #

## Definition: ##

The term "high places" refers to the altars and shrines that were used for worshiping idols. They were usually built on higher ground, such as on a hill or mountainside.

* Many of the kings of Israel sinned against God by building altars to false gods on these high places. This led the people to become deeply involved in worshiping idols.
* When a God-fearing king started ruling in Israel or Judah, often he would remove the high places or altars in order to stop the worship of these idols.
* However, some of these good kings were careless and did not remove the high places, which resulted in the entire nation of Israel continuing to worship idols.

## Translation Suggestions: ##

* Other ways to translate this term could include, "elevated places for idol worship" or "hilltop idol shrines" or "idol altar mounds."
* Make sure it is clear that this term refers to the idol altars, not just to the high place where those altars are located.

(See also: [altar](../other/altar.md) **·** [idol](../other/idol.md) **·** [worship](../kt/worship.md))

## Bible References: ##

* [1 Samuel 09:12-13](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/1sa/09/12)
* [2 Kings 16:3-4](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/2ki/16/03)
* [Amos 04:12-13](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/amo/04/12)
* [Deuteronomy 33:29](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/deu/33/29)
* [Ezekiel 06:1-3](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/ezk/06/01)
* [Habakkuk 03:18-19](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/hab/03/18)