Exodus 34:13 (a) The groves which are described in this passage and in the others which are given in this paragraph represent an unusual planting of branches of trees or saplings carved into shapes for immoral purposes. As in most cases of idolatry, immorality is quite evident, so in this case. Men and women approach these groups of planted sticks to arouse their passions and to gain some unnatural satisfaction. (See Deuteronomy 7:5; Deuteronomy 12:3; Deuteronomy 16:21; Judges 6:25; 2 Kings 13:6; 2 Kings 18:4; 2 Chronicles 34:3; Micah 5:14).
2 Kings 23:6 (a) It should be noted that these plantings of items to encourage immorality were found inside the temple of GOD. They were small in size so that they could be placed in the building. They were to be removed from the temple, burned, and, if they were covered with metal, that was to be ground up and scattered. (See2Ki 23:14). The grove mentioned in Deuteronomy 16:21 and the groves planted by Abraham were normal and natural groups of ordinary trees.