High Place
LocationsGeographical Setting
High places were elevated outdoor sanctuaries in the ancient Near East used for communal religious rituals and sacrifices.
What is the meaning of High Place in the Bible?
A high place denotes an elevated site utilized for religious worship in ancient Israel and surrounding regions, typically characterized by the presence of standing stones (masseboth) and sacred trees (asherim), with archaeological evidence revealing their structural layout and usage patterns.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding high places clarifies the religious landscape of the biblical period, illustrating the tension between centralized worship in Jerusalem and the decentralized, local cultic practices that persisted among the populace.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention High Place in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does High Place clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.