Deuteronomy 16:21

Translation
King James Version
Thou shalt not plant thee a grove of any trees near unto the altar of the LORD thy God, which thou shalt make thee.
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KJV (with Strong's)
Thou shalt not plant H5193 thee a grove H842 of any trees H6086 near unto H681 the altar H4196 of the LORD H3068 thy God H430, which thou shalt make H6213 thee.
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Complete Jewish Bible
"You are not to plant any sort of tree as a sacred pole beside the altar of ADONAI your God that you will make for yourselves.
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Berean Standard Bible
Do not set up any wooden Asherah pole next to the altar you will build for the LORD your God,
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American Standard Version
Thou shalt not plant thee an Asherah of any kind of tree beside the altar of Jehovah thy God, which thou shalt make thee.
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World English Bible Messianic
You shall not plant for yourselves an Asherah of any kind of tree beside the altar of the LORD your God, which you shall make for yourselves.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Thou shalt plant thee no groue of any trees neere vnto the altar of the Lord thy God, which thou shalt make thee.
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Young's Literal Translation
`Thou dost not plant for thee a shrine of any trees near the altar of Jehovah thy God, which thou makest for thyself,
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See also
2 Chronicles 33:32 Kings 17:162 Kings 21:3Exodus 34:131 Kings 16:331 Kings 14:15Judges 3:7
In the KJVVerse 5,364 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Deuteronomy 16:21 issues a stringent divine prohibition against the syncretistic practice of planting a cultic "grove" or Asherah pole near the altar dedicated to Yahweh. This command unequivocally underscores God's demand for exclusive, pure, and unadulterated devotion from His people, safeguarding the sanctity of Israel's worship by explicitly forbidding any association with the idolatrous rituals and symbols of the Canaanite nations.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Deuteronomy 16:21 is strategically placed within a larger legislative section (Deuteronomy 12-26) that outlines the proper worship and social order for Israel as they prepare to inherit the Promised Land. Specifically, it follows the detailed regulations for the three annual pilgrimage festivals—Passover, Weeks (Pentecost), and Booths (Sukkot)—which conclude in Deuteronomy 16:17. The verse immediately precedes a similar prohibition against setting up sacred pillars (maṣṣēbâ) and offering blemished sacrifices (Deuteronomy 16:22 and Deuteronomy 17:1). This cluster of commands forms a coherent unit aimed at protecting the integrity and holiness of Israel's worship at the central sanctuary, emphasizing the immediate and practical necessity of preventing pagan contamination at the very heart of their religious life and national identity.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The command in Deuteronomy 16:21 is deeply embedded in the historical and cultural realities of ancient Canaan, a land saturated with polytheistic religions, particularly the worship of Baal and Asherah. Canaanite cults routinely incorporated sacred trees, wooden poles (Asherah poles), or stone pillars (maṣṣēbâ) as central symbols of their deities, often associated with fertility rites and erected alongside altars for sacrifices. The Israelites were on the verge of entering this land, facing immense pressure to conform to these pervasive practices. This prohibition directly confronts the ever-present threat of syncretism, where Israel might be tempted to blend their worship of Yahweh with the indigenous Canaanite customs, thereby defiling their unique covenant relationship with God. This struggle for purity against idolatrous influences is a recurring theme throughout Israel's history, as vividly depicted in the historical books, such as when Israel served Baal and Asherah in Judges 2:13 or when Judah built high places and Asherah poles in 1 Kings 14:23.
  • Key Themes: This verse powerfully reinforces several foundational themes woven throughout the book of Deuteronomy and the broader Mosaic Law. Firstly, it champions the Purity of Worship, demanding that Israel's devotion to Yahweh remain entirely unblemished by foreign, idolatrous elements. God's worship is to be distinct, holy, and uncompromised. Secondly, it underscores the theme of Exclusive Devotion, echoing the foundational first commandment's call for Israel to have no other gods before Yahweh (Exodus 20:3). The planting of an "Asherah grove" near Yahweh's altar would directly violate this exclusivity, implying a shared or diluted allegiance. Finally, it serves as a practical manifestation of the broader Prohibition of Idolatry that permeates the Mosaic Law, ensuring that the physical spaces of worship reflect the spiritual commitment to Yahweh alone, as seen in commands to utterly destroy all pagan altars and symbols upon entering the land (Deuteronomy 12:2-3).

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • plant (Hebrew, nâṭaʻ', H5193): From a primitive root meaning "to strike in, i.e. fix," this word signifies the act of establishing or setting something firmly in the ground. In this context, it refers to the deliberate action of planting a tree or erecting a pole. The prohibition is not merely against the presence of a "grove" but against the act of planting or constructing it, emphasizing the intentionality of the forbidden practice. It highlights that Israel is responsible for actively preventing the introduction of pagan elements into their sacred space.
  • grove (Hebrew, ʼăshêrâh', H842): This term, often translated as "grove" in older versions, refers specifically to a cultic wooden pole, pillar, or even a living tree that served as a sacred object or symbol of Asherah, a prominent Canaanite goddess. Asherah was commonly worshipped as the consort of Baal and was central to fertility cults. These poles were integral to Canaanite worship and frequently erected alongside altars. The prohibition, therefore, is not against planting natural trees but against introducing a specific pagan cultic symbol into the sacred space dedicated to Yahweh, thereby preventing the defilement of His worship with practices of false gods. This specific term highlights God's deep concern for the spiritual integrity of His people.
  • altar (Hebrew, mizbêach', H4196): Derived from a root meaning "to sacrifice," this word refers to a raised structure or platform used for offering sacrifices to God. In the context of Deuteronomy, this primarily refers to the single, central altar at the place the LORD would choose for His name to dwell (Deuteronomy 12:5-7). The altar was the focal point of Israel's legitimate worship, representing God's presence and the means of atonement and communion. The command to not plant an Asherah pole near it underscores the sanctity and exclusive dedication of this sacred space to Yahweh alone, free from any competing or defiling religious symbols.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Thou shalt not plant thee a grove of any trees": This clause issues a direct and absolute prohibition against the act of planting or establishing. The KJV's "grove of any trees" is a translation of the Hebrew 'ăšērâ, which, as analyzed, specifically denotes a cultic object or symbol of the Canaanite goddess Asherah. The command is thus against establishing any symbol of pagan worship, particularly those associated with the fertility cults prevalent in Canaan. It serves as a preemptive strike against syncretism, ensuring that the very act of establishing a place of worship for Yahweh is not contaminated from its inception by idolatrous practices.
  • "near unto the altar of the LORD thy God": This specifies the forbidden location: in close proximity to the altar. The altar is the central and legitimate place of worship for Israel, where sacrifices are offered and communion with Yahweh is sought. Placing an Asherah pole or similar pagan symbol near it would imply a blending of worship, suggesting that Yahweh could be worshipped alongside or in conjunction with pagan deities. This is an affront to God's holiness and His demand for exclusive worship, as it would blur the lines between true and false religion, rendering Israel's devotion ambiguous and defiled.
  • "which thou shalt make thee": This phrase emphasizes Israel's agency and responsibility in constructing their places of worship. It implies that the altar is something they are actively building, maintaining, and using as part of their covenant relationship with God. Therefore, they are directly accountable for ensuring its purity and for preventing any defiling elements from being incorporated into or placed near it. The command underscores the intentionality required in maintaining the sanctity of their worship space and, by extension, their covenant fidelity to Yahweh alone.

Literary Devices

Deuteronomy 16:21 employs several effective literary devices to convey its crucial message of exclusive worship. The primary device is Prohibition, explicitly stating what Israel is forbidden to do, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding the purity of worship. The use of "Thou shalt not" is a direct imperative, characteristic of legal texts and emphasizing divine authority and the absolute nature of the command. Furthermore, the verse uses Metonymy, where "grove" (Asherah) stands for the entire idolatrous system and the pagan practices associated with the Canaanite fertility cults. By prohibiting the symbol, the text implicitly condemns the entire pagan worldview and its associated rituals. There is also an implicit Contrast established between the pure, exclusive worship of Yahweh at His altar and the defiling, syncretistic practices of paganism. The proximity of the forbidden "grove" to the sacred "altar" highlights this stark opposition, underscoring the absolute incompatibility of true worship with idolatry. The specificity of the command, targeting a well-known pagan symbol, enhances its clarity and practical applicability for the Israelites entering Canaan.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Deuteronomy 16:21 is a powerful articulation of God's unwavering demand for exclusive and unadulterated worship, a theme central to the entire biblical narrative. It reinforces the foundational principle that Yahweh alone is God and will not share His glory with idols. This command is not merely about physical objects but represents a spiritual battle against syncretism—the blending of true faith with false ideologies or practices. It teaches that genuine devotion requires absolute allegiance, free from any compromise with the world's competing "gods" or spiritual systems. The purity of the altar reflects the purity of the worshipper's heart and the sanctity of the covenant relationship. This principle resonates throughout Scripture, calling God's people to a radical separation from idolatry in all its forms, whether overt or subtle, ensuring that God receives the singular honor due to His name.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

While believers today no longer face the literal threat of planting Asherah poles near physical altars, the timeless principle embedded in Deuteronomy 16:21 remains profoundly relevant for our spiritual lives. This verse challenges us to critically examine our own "altars"—the places, priorities, and practices where we offer our worship, devotion, and allegiance—and to ensure they are meticulously free from any "groves" of competing loyalties or defiling influences. In a world saturated with diverse ideologies, pervasive materialism, and self-serving ambitions, it is remarkably easy for subtle forms of syncretism to subtly creep into our lives, thereby diluting our exclusive devotion to God. This command calls us to radical spiritual purity, urging us to identify and dismantle anything that competes for the supremacy of Christ in our hearts, our homes, our churches, and our communities. It demands an honest assessment of what truly holds preeminence in our lives, ensuring that our worship, offered in spirit and in truth, is directed solely to the Lord our God, uncompromised by the "idols" of our age.

Questions for Reflection

  • What "groves" or competing loyalties might be subtly planted near the "altar" of your devotion to God today?
  • How might modern forms of syncretism manifest in a believer's life, and what proactive steps can we take to guard against them?
  • In what specific areas of your life (e.g., finances, career, relationships, entertainment choices) might you be tempted to compromise your exclusive devotion to God?
  • What practical steps can you implement to ensure the purity and unadulterated nature of your worship, both personally and corporately, in light of this command?

FAQ

What is an "Asherah pole" and why was it forbidden near God's altar?

Answer: An "Asherah pole" (Hebrew: 'ăšērâ, often translated as "grove" in older English versions like the KJV) was not merely a natural tree or a cluster of trees. It was a cultic wooden pole, pillar, or even a sacred tree trunk that served as a prominent symbol or representation of Asherah, a significant Canaanite goddess. Asherah was frequently worshipped as the consort of Baal, and their cults were deeply associated with fertility rites and various idolatrous practices. These poles were typically erected alongside altars where sacrifices were offered to pagan deities. The command in Deuteronomy 16:21 strictly forbade placing such a symbol near the altar of Yahweh because it represented a direct challenge to God's exclusive sovereignty and holiness. Its presence would have implied a blending of Yahweh worship with paganism, a syncretism that God vehemently rejected as a defilement of His pure worship and a direct violation of the first commandment, which states, "You shall have no other gods before me" (Exodus 20:3).

Does this verse mean we shouldn't plant trees near churches or places of worship today?

Answer: The literal prohibition against planting "groves" ('ăšērâ) near altars in Deuteronomy 16:21 is specific to the ancient Israelite context and the pagan cultic symbols prevalent at that time. Therefore, it does not mean that planting natural trees or engaging in landscaping near modern churches or places of worship is forbidden. The underlying theological principle, however, is timeless and profoundly relevant: God demands pure, unadulterated worship, free from any elements that compromise His exclusive claim on our devotion. The "grove" represented idolatry and syncretism. Consequently, the modern application is to ensure that our worship, both individually and corporately, is free from anything that competes with God's glory, whether it be worldly philosophies, material idols, self-serving ambitions, or any form of spiritual compromise. The focus is on the spiritual purity of our devotion and the integrity of our faith, not on the literal horticulture around our buildings.

How does this command relate to the broader theme of holiness in the Bible?

Answer: Deuteronomy 16:21 is intrinsically linked to the broader biblical theme of holiness. God is inherently holy, and He calls His people to be holy as He is holy (Leviticus 11:44-45). Holiness implies separation—separation from sin, from the profane, and from anything that defiles God's character or His worship. The prohibition against planting an Asherah pole near Yahweh's altar is a concrete and vivid expression of this demand for holiness in worship. It ensures that the sacred space, and by extension, the sacred covenant relationship between God and Israel, remains distinct and undefiled by the idolatrous practices of the surrounding nations. This principle extends powerfully into the New Testament, where believers are called to be set apart for God, to cleanse themselves from all defilement of body and spirit, and to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1-2 and 2 Corinthians 7:1). It underscores that true worship requires an uncompromised commitment to God's purity.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Deuteronomy 16:21, with its stern prohibition against defiling God's altar with pagan symbols, finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound spiritual resonance in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "groves" of Asherah represented a compromise with false gods, a dilution of true worship, and a constant temptation to syncretism. Christ, however, is the very embodiment of pure worship and exclusive devotion to the Father. He is the true and perfect sacrifice, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, whose singular offering perfectly cleanses and sanctifies, rendering all other altars and sacrifices obsolete. In Him, the need for a physical altar is transcended, as He becomes both the High Priest and the ultimate sacrifice, opening the way for worship "in spirit and truth" (John 4:23-24). The New Covenant, inaugurated by Christ's blood, calls believers to be living temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), where the "altar" is now the human heart, consecrated to God. The prohibition against "groves" near the altar thus transforms into a call for believers to purge their hearts of all idolatry—whether it be the worship of self, possessions, power, or any worldly philosophy—ensuring that Christ alone reigns supreme. He is the one who purifies His temple, driving out all that defiles (Matthew 21:12-13), and through His atoning work, He enables us to draw near to God with confidence, offering pure and acceptable worship, free from any spiritual syncretism or divided loyalties, making us truly consecrated to Him alone (Hebrews 10:19-22).

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Commentary on Deuteronomy 16 verses 18–22

Here is, I. Care taken for the due administration of justice among them, that controversies might be determined, matters in variance adjusted, the injured redressed, and the injurious punished. While they were encamped in the wilderness, they had judges and officers according to their numbers, rulers of thousands and hundreds, Exo 18:25. When they came to Canaan, they must have them according to their towns and cities, in all their gates; for the courts of judgment sat in the gates. Now, 1. Here is a commission given to these inferior magistrates: "Judges to try and pass sentence, and officers to execute their sentences, shalt thou make thee." However the persons were pitched upon, whether by the nomination of their sovereign or by the election of the people, the power were ordained of God, Rom 13:1. And it was a great mercy to the people thus to have justice brought to their doors, that it might be more expeditious and less expensive, a blessing which we of this nation ought to be very thankful for. Pursuant to this law, besides the great sanhedrim that sat at the sanctuary, consisting of seventy elders and a president, there was in the larger cities, such as had in them above 120 families, a court of twenty-three judges, in the smaller cities a court of three judges. See this law revived by Jehoshaphat, Ch2 19:5, Ch2 19:8. 2. Here is a command given to these magistrates to do justice in the execution of the trust reposed in them. Better not judge at all than not judge with just judgment, according to the direction of the law and the evidence of the fact. (1.) The judges are here cautioned not to do wrong to any (Deu 16:19), nor to take any gifts, which would tempt them to do wrong. This law had been given before, Exo 23:8. (2.) They are charged to do justice to all: "That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, Deu 16:20. Adhere to the principles of justice, act by the rules of justice, countenance the demands of justice, imitate the patterns of justice, and pursue with resolution that which appears to be just. Justice, justice, shalt thou follow." This is that which the magistrate is to have in his eye, on this he must be intent, and to this all personal regards must be sacrificed, to do right to all and wrong to none.

II. Care taken for the preventing of all conformity to the idolatrous customs of the heathen, Deu 16:21, Deu 16:22. They must not only not join with the idolaters in their worships, not visit their groves, nor bow before the images which they had set up, but, 1. They must not plant a grove, nor so much as a tree, near God's altar lest they should make it look like the altars of the false gods. They made groves the places of their worship either to make it secret (but that which is true and good desires the light rather), or to make it solemn, but the worship of the true God has enough in itself to make it so and needs not the advantage of such a circumstance. 2. They must not set up any image, statue, or pillar, to the honour of God, for it is a thing which the Lord hates; nothing belies or reproaches him more, or tends more to corrupt and debauch the minds of men, than representing and worshipping by an image that God who is an infinite and eternal Spirit.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 18–22. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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