When reading Parashat Re’eh, Torah scholars and biblical researchers alike generally understand the phrase, “the place which God shall choose” as referring solely to Jerusalem (Mount Moriah). This understanding makes it  difficult to explain the sacrifices offered to God upon bamot, literally “high places,” the ad hoc altars described in several places in Tanakh. We examine Biblical texts, commentaries, midrash, and archeological findings at Khirbet Qeyafa to reach new understandings about the presence and dismantling of bamot.

5 pages
Divine Dwelling Place
The Chosen Place - HaMakom Asher Yivhar
The One Place of Worship
Prohibition of Bamot
Altar
Altar in Beit El
Courtesy of the Virtual Beit Midrash, Yeshivat Har Etzion