Arcana Coelestia #796
796. Because the Most Ancient Church conducted holy worship on mountains, the Ancient Churches therefore did so as well. Consequently with all the representative Churches of that time, and indeed with 'the nations' too, sacrifices were offered on mountains, and high places were built. This is clear from what is said about Abram in Genesis 12:8; 22:2; about the Jews before the Temple was built, in Deuteronomy 27:4-7; Joshua 8:30; 1 Samuel 9:12-14, 19; 10:5; 1 Kings 3:2-4; about the nations, in Deuteronomy 12:2; 2 Kings 17:9-11; about the Jews, who were idolaters, in Isaiah 57:7; 1 Kings 11:7; 14:23; 22:43; 2 Kings 12:3; 14:4; 15:3-4, 34-35; 16:4; 17:9-11; 21:3, 23:5, 8, 9, 13, 15.
Deuteronomy 27:4-7
4
It shall be, when you have passed over the Jordan, that you shall set up these stones, which I command you this day, in Mount Ebal, and you shall plaster them with plaster.
5
There you shall build an altar to Yahweh your God, an altar of stones: you shall lift up no iron [tool] on them.
6
You shall build the altar of Yahweh your God of uncut stones; and you shall offer burnt offerings thereon to Yahweh your God:
7
and you shall sacrifice peace offerings, and shall eat there; and you shall rejoice before Yahweh your God.
