ירמיהו, פרק ל״ב, פסוק ל״ד

The corruption of the people reached its absolute peak when they brought idolatry directly into the most sacred of spaces. They actively set up carved idols, statues, and altars dedicated to Baal and other false gods [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. These objects were not merely foreign; they represented deep abomination and disgust [מצודת ציון]. Historically, these severe acts of desecration are directly attributed to the reigns of the kings Ahaz and Manasseh [רד״ק].

Rather than keeping their practices at a distance, the people placed these idols inside the Temple itself. This was the exact location uniquely designated to bear the name of God [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. By positioning their false gods within His sanctuary, their direct intention was to completely pollute and defile the holy house [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].