Deuteronomy 12:31

You must not worship the LORD your God in this way, because they practice for their gods every abomination which the LORD hates. They even burn their sons and daughters in the fire as sacrifices to their gods.

Study Bible

You must not worship the LORD your God in their way
This phrase serves as a direct command from God to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of distinct and holy worship. The Hebrew word for "worship" here is "עָבַד" (avad), which means to serve or to work. This implies that worship is not merely ritualistic but involves a lifestyle of service and devotion. The phrase "in their way" refers to the Canaanite practices that were prevalent in the land. Historically, these practices were often idolatrous and morally corrupt, involving rituals that were detestable to God. The Israelites were called to be set apart, a holy nation, and this required a form of worship that was pure and in accordance with God's commandments.

because they practice for their gods every abomination
The term "abomination" is translated from the Hebrew word "תּוֹעֵבָה" (to'evah), which signifies something that is detestable or loathsome. In the context of ancient Near Eastern cultures, abominations were practices that were not only religiously offensive but also morally reprehensible. The Canaanites engaged in various forms of idolatry and immoral acts, which were considered abominations by the standards of the Mosaic Law. This phrase underscores the severity of these practices and the reason why God forbade His people from adopting them. It serves as a reminder of the holiness and righteousness that God demands from His followers.

which the LORD hates
The word "hates" is derived from the Hebrew "שָׂנֵא" (sane), indicating a strong aversion or detestation. This is not a passive dislike but an active opposition to what is evil. The LORD's hatred of these practices is rooted in His nature as a holy and just God. Throughout Scripture, God's hatred is directed towards sin and unrighteousness, which corrupt and destroy His creation. This phrase highlights the personal nature of God's response to sin, emphasizing that these practices are not merely against His laws but against His very character.

They even burn their sons and daughters in the fire as sacrifices to their gods
This horrific practice is a reference to child sacrifice, which was a part of some Canaanite religious rituals. The Hebrew word for "burn" is "שָׂרַף" (saraph), meaning to consume by fire. Archaeological evidence from sites like Carthage and other ancient Near Eastern locations has confirmed the existence of such practices, which were intended to appease or gain favor from deities. The phrase "as sacrifices to their gods" indicates the extreme lengths to which these cultures would go in their idolatry. This act is the epitome of the abominations mentioned earlier and serves as a stark contrast to the life-affirming worship that God desires. It underscores the value God places on human life and the abhorrence He has for practices that devalue it. This serves as a powerful reminder of the sanctity of life and the call for God's people to uphold it in their worship and daily lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving instructions on how to live and worship in the Promised Land.

3. Canaan
The land the Israelites are entering, inhabited by nations practicing abominable religious rituals.

4. Pagan Nations
The inhabitants of Canaan who worship false gods and engage in detestable practices.

5. God (Yahweh)
The one true God, who commands His people to worship Him in a manner distinct from pagan practices.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Worship
God calls His people to worship Him in a manner that reflects His holiness and distinctiveness from the world.

Rejection of Pagan Practices
Believers must be vigilant in rejecting any practices or influences that contradict God's commands and character.

Value of Human Life
The sanctity of life is paramount in God's eyes, and His people must uphold and protect it.

Obedience to God's Commands
True worship involves obedience to God's instructions, not conforming to the practices of surrounding cultures.

Discernment in Worship
Christians are called to discern and ensure that their worship aligns with biblical principles, avoiding syncretism.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Canaanite practices enhance our comprehension of God's command in Deuteronomy 12:31?

2. In what ways can modern Christians ensure their worship remains distinct and holy, as instructed in this passage?

3. How does the prohibition of child sacrifice in Deuteronomy 12:31 reflect God's view on the sanctity of life, and how can this be applied today?

4. What are some contemporary "abominations" that Christians might be tempted to incorporate into their worship, and how can they guard against this?

5. How do the teachings in Romans 12:1-2 complement the instructions in Deuteronomy 12:31 regarding worship and sacrifice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 18:21
This verse also condemns the practice of child sacrifice, emphasizing the sanctity of life and the holiness required in worship.

Jeremiah 7:31
Highlights the abomination of child sacrifice in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, reinforcing God's abhorrence of such practices.

Romans 12:1-2
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, contrasting with the abominable sacrifices of the pagans.