In the early days of Solomon's reign, the Israelites were still using high places for their sacrifices and worship. These high places were often hilltops or elevated sites where altars were built. The use of high places was a holdover from earlier times when centralized worship was not yet established. The temple in Jerusalem, which Solomon would later build, was intended to be the central place for worshiping the LORD, providing a unified and proper setting for sacrifices and religious observances.
The use of high places was a practical solution at the time, but it also posed risks. Without a central temple, the Israelites were more susceptible to adopting the worship practices of surrounding nations, which could lead to idolatry. This verse underscores the transitional period in Israel's religious life and the need for a dedicated space to focus their worship on the LORD alone. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's desire for His people to worship Him in spirit and truth, in a manner that is set apart from other religious practices.