Deuteronomy 12:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 12:31
31 Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters they have burnt in the fire to their gods.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 12 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, fellowship, judgment. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 12:31
31 Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters they have burnt in the fire to their gods.
Analysis
The reason for prohibition: 'Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters they have burnt in the fire to their gods.' Canaanite worship included 'abominations' (to'evah, תּוֹעֵבָה, detestable things)—practices God 'hates' (שָׂנֵא, sane). Specifically mentioned: child sacrifice—burning sons and daughters as offerings. This horrific practice honored Molech/Moloch, attested archaeologically at Carthage (Phoenician colony) and biblical texts (Leviticus 18:21; 2 Kings 23:10; Jeremiah 7:31). God absolutely forbids syncretizing His worship with such practices. What pagans do 'unto their gods' must never be done 'unto the LORD.'
Historical Context
Archaeological evidence confirms child sacrifice in Canaanite/Phoenician religion. Tophet sites (ritual burial grounds for sacrificed children) have been excavated. Despite prohibition, some Israelites adopted this practice—Ahaz and Manasseh sacrificed their sons (2 Kings 16:3; 21:6). Jeremiah condemns the Valley of Hinnom (Gehenna) where children were burned to Molech (Jeremiah 19:5). Josiah's reform desecrated these sites (2 Kings 23:10). This abomination exemplifies pagan religion's depravity, justifying God's command for complete destruction.
Reflection
- How does child sacrifice illustrate the depths of human depravity when worshiping false gods?
- What modern practices might parallel ancient child sacrifice in devaluing human life for selfish ends (abortion, exploitation)?
- Why is syncretism (mixing true worship with false practices) so dangerous rather than merely neutral or misguided?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 2 Kings 21:2
- References God: Deuteronomy 9:5, 12:4
- Parallel theme: Exodus 23:2, Leviticus 18:3, Jeremiah 7:31, 32:35