Leviticus 20:4

And if the people of the land ever hide their eyes and fail to put to death the man who gives one of his children to Molech,

Study Bible

And if the people of the land ever hide their eyes
This phrase emphasizes the communal responsibility of the Israelites. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the community was expected to uphold God's laws collectively. "Hiding their eyes" suggests a willful ignorance or neglect of duty, which is condemned throughout Scripture (e.g., Ezekiel 22:30). The phrase underscores the importance of vigilance in maintaining holiness and justice within the community.

and fail to put to death
The prescribed punishment for giving a child to Molech was death, reflecting the severity of the crime. This command highlights the sanctity of life and the abhorrence of idolatry, particularly child sacrifice, which was prevalent among neighboring cultures like the Ammonites. The death penalty here serves as a deterrent and a means of purging evil from among the people, aligning with the broader biblical theme of divine justice (Deuteronomy 17:7).

the man who gives one of his children to Molech
Molech worship involved detestable practices, including child sacrifice, which was strictly forbidden (Leviticus 18:21). This act was not only a violation of God's commandments but also a betrayal of the covenant relationship with Yahweh. The reference to Molech connects to the broader biblical narrative of Israel's struggle with idolatry and the call to exclusive worship of the one true God (Exodus 20:3). This phrase also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself willingly, contrasting with the forced sacrifices to Molech.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The People of the Land
Refers to the Israelites, God's chosen people, who are living in the Promised Land. They are expected to uphold God's laws and maintain holiness within the community.

2. Molech
A pagan deity associated with child sacrifice, which was strictly forbidden by God. Worship of Molech was a significant issue in ancient Canaanite religion and posed a threat to the spiritual purity of Israel.

3. Child Sacrifice
A detestable practice condemned by God, where children were offered as sacrifices to Molech. This act was seen as a grave sin and a violation of God's commandments.

4. The Act of Hiding Eyes
Symbolizes willful ignorance or turning a blind eye to sin. It implies a communal responsibility to address and correct sinful behavior.

5. The Command to Execute
Reflects the seriousness of the crime and the need for justice. It underscores the importance of communal responsibility in maintaining the holiness of the community.

Teaching Points

The Call to Holiness
God calls His people to be holy and separate from the sinful practices of surrounding nations. This requires active participation in upholding His laws.

Communal Responsibility
The community is responsible for addressing sin within its midst. Ignoring sin can lead to greater corruption and distance from God.

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry, in any form, is a serious offense against God. It leads to moral decay and spiritual separation from Him.

The Importance of Justice
Justice is a key component of God's character. Upholding justice within the community reflects God's righteousness and maintains order.

Vigilance Against Sin
Believers must remain vigilant against sin and idolatry, recognizing their subtle forms and resisting the temptation to compromise.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the command to not "hide their eyes" teach us about our responsibility towards sin in our communities today?

2. How can we identify and resist modern forms of idolatry that may not be as obvious as ancient practices like child sacrifice?

3. In what ways can we ensure that justice is upheld within our church communities, reflecting God's character?

4. How does the concept of communal responsibility in Leviticus 20:4 relate to the New Testament teachings on church discipline?

5. What practical steps can we take to maintain holiness in our personal lives and within our communities, in light of the warnings against idolatry and sin?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 18:10
This verse also condemns child sacrifice and other detestable practices, reinforcing the prohibition against such acts.

Jeremiah 32:35
Highlights the continued struggle with idolatry and child sacrifice among the Israelites, showing the persistent temptation and the need for vigilance.

Ezekiel 20:31
Discusses the defilement of Israel through idolatry and child sacrifice, emphasizing the consequences of turning away from God.