מלכים ב, פרק ט״ו, פסוק ד׳

Throughout this era, a popular custom persisted among the people to offer sacrifices outside of the central Temple. Instead of bringing their offerings to one unified location, they maintained local high places. These outdoor altars were specific sites where the people directed their sacrifices to God.

This deep-rooted habit proved difficult to break. The widespread practice of offering sacrifices and burning incense at these scattered high places was never fully removed, and the situation continued for many years [ביאור שטיינזלץ].