You shall tear down their altars and break their pillars and cut down their Asherim
The traitors are pardoned and made favorites again. When the covenant was broken, Israel broke it; now that it is renewed, God makes it, so if there be peace, God must have all the glory. These marvels are without precedent, the joy of Israel and the terror of their enemies, wrought to confirm their faith and prove His dominion over nations.
AI summary
Commenting on Exodus 34:10-17
Israel must obliterate these altars, images, and groves entirely; if left standing, they become snares to idolatry and provoke God's wrath. The word 'grove' covers any tree or plant they set apart for false worship, for such places bred both superstition and moral filth.
AI summary
But ye shall destroy their altars, break their images, and cut down their groves: (d) Which pleasant places they chose for their idols.