Molek among the Hebrews A Hebrew God or an Ancient Ritual?

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 MA, Department of philosophy and Religions, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of philosophy and Religions, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran.

Abstract

The verse in the Old Testament that states, "All the firstborn are mine," has been interpreted in two different ways. One interpretation suggests that Yahweh demanded the sacrifice of firstborns, and children were offered as sacrifices to Him. The other interpretation reveals Yahweh's abhorrence of such practices and the severe warnings He issued to the Israelites against child sacrifices. The authors of the Old Testament depict "Molek" in the ancient Near East as a deity associated with child sacrifices. It seems that these authors deliberately attributed the act of child sacrifice to the God Molek to portray it as an alien and detestable practice in the eyes of Yahweh and to dissuade people from offering their children to Yahweh. The main question is: What is the connection between child sacrifice and Molek? Is Molek the name of a god, or does it refer to a specific ritual? This study is descriptive-analytical, based on sacred texts, historical records, and interpretations by scholars, and seeks to examine the nature, concept, and role of Molek among the Hebrews.

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References

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Religions and Mysticism
Volume 57, Issue 2
Autumn & Winter 2024/2025
March 2025
Pages 553-570

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