They have built also the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings unto Baal, which I commanded not, nor spake it, neither came it into my mind:
They have built worship places for the false god Baal, where they burn their own children alive as sacrifices to Baal. I never commanded this, never spoke about it, and it never even entered my thoughts.
God is expressing horror and disgust that His people are sacrificing their own children to false gods—something He never asked for and finds completely abhorrent.
📚 Historical Context
During Jeremiah's time (around 600 BC), some Israelites had adopted the horrific practice of child sacrifice from surrounding pagan nations, particularly in worship of the Canaanite god Baal. These sacrifices often took place at 'high places'—elevated outdoor shrines built on hills or artificial platforms. This practice was completely contrary to God's character and commands, representing one of the most extreme departures from true worship.
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