Topical Bible: Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Molech or Milcom

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Molech, also referred to as Milcom, is a significant figure in the biblical narrative concerning idolatry, particularly in the context of ancient Israel's struggles with pagan worship. Molech is associated with the Ammonites, a people who lived east of the Jordan River. The worship of Molech is characterized by its particularly abhorrent practices, which included child sacrifice, a ritual explicitly condemned in the Hebrew Scriptures.

Biblical References and Practices

The worship of Molech is first mentioned in the context of prohibitions given to the Israelites. In Leviticus 18:21 , the Lord commands, "You must not give any of your children to be sacrificed to Molech, for you must not profane the name of your God. I am the LORD." This command underscores the severity of the practice and its incompatibility with the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel.

Further warnings are issued in Leviticus 20:2-5 , where the Lord instructs Moses to tell the Israelites, "Any Israelite or any foreigner residing in Israel who gives any of his children to Molech must be put to death. The people of the land are to stone him. I Myself will set My face against that man and cut him off from his people, because he has given his offspring to Molech, defiling My sanctuary and profaning My holy name."

The practice of child sacrifice to Molech is not only a violation of the sanctity of life but also a direct affront to the holiness of God, who demands exclusive worship and reverence. The severity of the punishment reflects the gravity of the sin in the eyes of God.

Historical Context and Influence

Molech worship was not limited to the Ammonites but also infiltrated Israelite society, particularly during periods of spiritual decline. King Solomon, despite his wisdom, is recorded as having built high places for Molech and other foreign deities due to the influence of his foreign wives. 1 Kings 11:7 states, "At that time on a hill east of Jerusalem, Solomon built a high place for Chemosh the abomination of Moab, and for Molech the abomination of the Ammonites."

This syncretism, or blending of religious practices, led to significant consequences for Israel, as it drew the people away from the covenant relationship with Yahweh. The prophets repeatedly condemned such practices, calling the nation to repentance and a return to the worship of the one true God.

Prophetic Condemnation and Reforms

The prophets, including Jeremiah, spoke vehemently against the worship of Molech. In Jeremiah 32:35 , the Lord expresses His dismay: "They built high places for Baal in the Valley of Hinnom to sacrifice their sons and daughters to Molech, though I never commanded—nor did it even enter My mind—that they should commit such an abomination and cause Judah to sin."

Reforms were occasionally undertaken by righteous kings such as Josiah, who sought to eradicate idolatry from the land. 2 Kings 23:10 records Josiah's actions: "He also desecrated Topheth in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, so that no one could sacrifice his son or daughter in the fire to Molech."

Theological Implications

The worship of Molech represents a profound theological deviation from the worship of Yahweh. It highlights the tension between the call to holiness and the temptation to conform to surrounding pagan practices. The biblical narrative consistently portrays the worship of Molech as a grave sin, one that leads to national judgment and exile.

In summary, Molech or Milcom serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of idolatry and the importance of faithfulness to God's commandments. The biblical injunctions against such practices underscore the call to purity and the exclusive worship of the God of Israel.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 18:21
And you shall not let any of your seed pass through the fire to Molech, neither shall you profane the name of your God: I am the LORD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 11:5,33
For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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