Groves

/GROHVZ/

Summary

Sacred trees or poles associated with pagan worship, often condemned in Scripture as sites of idolatry.

☩Use in Worship

Groves were used from early times for religious purposes, being naturally fitted as 'God's first temples.' However, they were also resorted to by heathen idolaters who sacrificed on hilltops under oaks, poplars, and elms because 'the shadow thereof is good.' Israel was commanded to destroy these pagan worship sites.

Key verses:Genesis 21:33Hosea 4:13Deuteronomy 16:21

☩Asherah Poles

The Hebrew word 'Asherah,' often translated 'grove,' more properly signifies a wooden image or pole sacred to the goddess Astarte. These objects stood near altars of Baal and were to be cut down and burned. The prophets of Baal and of 'the groves' were challenged by Elijah on Mount Carmel.