2 Kings 21:6

He sacrificed his own son in the fire, practiced sorcery and divination, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did great evil in the sight of the LORD, provoking Him to anger.

Study Bible

He sacrificed his own son in the fire
This phrase refers to the practice of child sacrifice, which was strictly forbidden in Israelite law (Leviticus 18:21, Deuteronomy 18:10). The act is associated with the worship of the Canaanite god Molech, a practice that was prevalent among the surrounding pagan nations. Archaeological evidence from sites like Carthage suggests that child sacrifice was indeed practiced in the ancient Near East. This act by Manasseh, king of Judah, represents a severe departure from the worship of Yahweh and a return to the abominable practices of the nations that God had driven out before the Israelites.

practiced sorcery and divination
Sorcery and divination were condemned in the Mosaic Law (Deuteronomy 18:10-12) as they involved seeking guidance and power from sources other than God. These practices were common in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, where people sought to predict the future or manipulate events through supernatural means. Manasseh's engagement in these practices indicates a reliance on occult powers rather than on the God of Israel, further illustrating his rebellion against divine commandments.

and consulted mediums and spiritists
Mediums and spiritists were individuals who claimed to communicate with the dead or with spirits, a practice explicitly prohibited in Israel (Leviticus 19:31, 1 Samuel 28:7-9). This consultation with the dead was seen as an attempt to gain forbidden knowledge and power, bypassing God's revelation. The story of Saul consulting the medium at Endor (1 Samuel 28) serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers and futility of such practices.

He did great evil in the sight of the LORD
This summary statement underscores the gravity of Manasseh's actions. The phrase "in the sight of the LORD" emphasizes that God's perspective is the ultimate measure of morality. Manasseh's reign is characterized by a deliberate and flagrant violation of God's laws, leading to spiritual and moral decay in Judah. His actions are contrasted with the righteous kings of Judah who sought to follow God's commandments.

provoking Him to anger
The provocation of God's anger is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, often resulting from idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness (Deuteronomy 9:7-8, Judges 2:12). God's anger is not capricious but is a response to the breach of the covenant relationship. Manasseh's actions, including idolatry and the shedding of innocent blood, are seen as direct affronts to God's holiness and justice, leading to divine judgment. This foreshadows the eventual exile of Judah as a consequence of persistent disobedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manasseh
The king of Judah who reigned for 55 years and is known for his idolatrous practices and leading Judah into sin.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Manasseh ruled, and which was influenced by his actions.

3. Sorcery and Divination
Practices condemned by God, involving attempts to gain knowledge or power through supernatural means other than God.

4. Mediums and Spiritists
Individuals who claim to communicate with the dead or spirits, practices forbidden in the Law of Moses.

5. The LORD's Anger
The response of God to the evil practices of Manasseh, highlighting the seriousness of his sins.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Idolatry
Manasseh's actions led to severe consequences for Judah, reminding us of the destructive nature of idolatry and sin.

The Importance of Obedience
God's laws against sorcery and divination are clear, and obedience to His commands is crucial for a faithful life.

God's Anger and Justice
The passage highlights that God is just and His anger is kindled by sin, urging us to live righteously.

Repentance and Restoration
Despite Manasseh's grave sins, his later repentance shows that God's mercy is available to all who turn back to Him.

Guarding Against Cultural Influences
Manasseh was influenced by surrounding pagan practices, teaching us to be vigilant against cultural pressures that lead us away from God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What specific actions did Manasseh take that provoked the LORD's anger, and how do these actions relate to God's commandments in the Law of Moses?

2. How does Manasseh's account illustrate the consequences of turning away from God, and what can we learn about the nature of sin and its impact on a community?

3. In what ways can we guard against modern forms of idolatry and practices that are contrary to God's Word?

4. How does the account of Manasseh's eventual repentance and God's forgiveness encourage us in our own spiritual journeys?

5. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that we are not influenced by ungodly cultural practices, and how can we support each other in this effort?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 18:21
This verse forbids child sacrifice, which Manasseh violated by sacrificing his son.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These verses explicitly prohibit sorcery, divination, and consulting with mediums, which Manasseh practiced.

2 Chronicles 33:12-13
Chronicles Manasseh's eventual repentance, showing God's mercy even after great sin.

Isaiah 8:19
Warns against consulting mediums and spiritists, emphasizing reliance on God instead.

Romans 1:18-32
Describes the consequences of turning away from God to idolatry and wickedness, similar to Manasseh's actions.