Rove
Wilson's Dictionary of Bible Types [1]
Exodus 34:13 (a) The groves which are described in this passage and in the others which are given in this paragraph represent an unusual planting of branches of trees or saplings carved into shapes for immoral purposes. As in most cases of idolatry, immorality is quite evident, so in this case. Men and women approach these groups of planted sticks to arouse their passions and to gain some unnatural satisfaction. (See Deuteronomy 7:5; Deuteronomy 12:3; Deuteronomy 16:21; Judges 6:25; 2 Kings 13:6; 2 Kings 18:4; 2 Chronicles 34:3; Micah 5:14).
2 Kings 23:6 (a) It should be noted that these plantings of items to encourage immorality were found inside the temple of God. They were small in size so that they could be placed in the building. They were to be removed from the temple, burned, and, if they were covered with metal, that was to be ground up and scattered. (See2Ki 23:14). The grove mentioned in Deuteronomy 16:21 and the groves planted by Abraham were normal and natural groups of ordinary trees.
Smith's Bible Dictionary [2]
Grove.
1. A word used in the Authorized Version, with two exceptions, to translate the mysterious Hebrew term, Asherah , which is not a grove, but probably an idol or image of some kind. See Asherah . It is also probable that there was a connection between this symbol or image, whatever it was, and the sacred symbolic tree, the representation of which occurs so frequently on Assyrian sculptures.
2. The two exceptions noticed above are Genesis 21:33 and 1 Samuel 22:6, (margin). In the religions of the ancient heathen world, groves play a prominent part. In the old times, altars only were erected to the gods.
It was thought wrong to shut up the gods within walls, and hence, trees were the first temples; and from the earliest times, groves are mentioned in connection with religious worship. Genesis 12:6-7; Deuteronomy 11:30. Authorized Version, "plain," the groves were generally found connected with temples, and often had the right of affording an asylum.
Webster's Dictionary [3]
(v.) A smaller group of trees than a forest, and without underwood, planted, or growing naturally as if arranged by art; a wood of small extent.
