2 Kings 17:31

the Avvites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burned their children in the fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech the gods of Sepharvaim.

Study Bible

the Avvites
The Avvites were a people group mentioned in the Old Testament, often associated with the Philistines. Historically, they were displaced by the Caphtorites, as noted in Deuteronomy 2:23. The Avvites' presence in the land of Israel signifies the diverse and often pagan influences that surrounded the Israelites. Their practices and deities reflect the syncretism that was prevalent in the region, which often led Israel astray from worshiping Yahweh.

made Nibhaz and Tartak
These names refer to deities worshiped by the Avvites. The creation of these gods highlights the human tendency to craft idols and deities that reflect their own image or desires. Nibhaz and Tartak are not well-documented outside of this passage, suggesting that they were localized or lesser-known deities. This underscores the biblical theme of the futility and obscurity of idol worship compared to the worship of the one true God.

the Sepharvites
The Sepharvites were another group of people relocated to Samaria by the Assyrians. Their mention here indicates the Assyrian policy of mixing populations to prevent rebellion, which led to a melting pot of religious practices in the region. This cultural and religious amalgamation often resulted in the Israelites adopting foreign gods, contrary to God's commandments.

would burn their children in the fire
This phrase describes a horrific practice associated with some ancient Near Eastern religions, including those of the Sepharvites. Child sacrifice was a ritual meant to appease or gain favor from deities, reflecting the extreme measures people would take to secure perceived divine favor. This practice is condemned throughout the Bible as abhorrent and contrary to the nature of God, who values life and abhors such cruelty.

to Adrammelech and Anammelech
These are the gods of the Sepharvites, to whom they offered their children. The names suggest a connection to the Assyrian or Babylonian pantheon, where "Adar" and "Melech" could imply a deity associated with power or kingship. The worship of these gods through such extreme means highlights the darkness and desperation of pagan practices, contrasting sharply with the life-giving worship of Yahweh.

the gods of Sepharvaim
Sepharvaim was a city or region whose people were relocated to Samaria. The mention of their gods emphasizes the polytheistic nature of the ancient world, where each city or region had its own deities. The biblical narrative consistently contrasts these localized, powerless gods with the omnipotent, omnipresent God of Israel, who is not confined to any one place or people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Avvites
A people group mentioned in the context of the Assyrian resettlement of Samaria. They brought their own gods, Nibhaz and Tartak, into the land.

2. Sepharvites
Another group resettled in Samaria by the Assyrians. They practiced child sacrifice to their gods, Adrammelech and Anammelech.

3. Nibhaz and Tartak
Deities worshiped by the Avvites. Little is known about these gods, but their mention indicates the syncretism and idolatry prevalent in Samaria.

4. Adrammelech and Anammelech
Gods of the Sepharvites, associated with the horrific practice of child sacrifice, highlighting the depth of pagan worship.

5. Samaria
The region where these foreign peoples were resettled, leading to a mixture of religious practices contrary to the worship of Yahweh.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Syncretism
Mixing true worship with pagan practices leads to spiritual corruption. Believers must guard against incorporating worldly or unbiblical elements into their faith.

The Sanctity of Life
The practice of child sacrifice underscores the value God places on human life. Christians are called to uphold the sanctity of life in all its forms.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
The Israelites' downfall was due to their disobedience and idolatry. Believers today must remain faithful to God's Word and avoid the temptations of cultural conformity.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to moral decay and divine judgment. Christians must identify and remove any idols in their lives, whether they be material, relational, or ideological.

God's Call to Holiness
God desires His people to be set apart and holy. This requires a commitment to living according to His standards and rejecting the sinful practices of the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day practices or beliefs that might be considered a form of syncretism in the church today?

2. How can we, as Christians, actively uphold the sanctity of life in our communities and personal lives?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are being faithful to God's commands in a culture that often contradicts biblical values?

4. What are some potential "idols" in our lives that might be hindering our relationship with God, and how can we address them?

5. How does understanding the historical context of 2 Kings 17:31 help us apply its lessons to our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 18:21
This verse condemns child sacrifice, a practice associated with the worship of Molech, similar to the practices of the Sepharvites.

Deuteronomy 12:31
God explicitly forbids the Israelites from adopting the abominable practices of the nations, including child sacrifice.

2 Kings 17:7-23
Provides context for why God allowed the Assyrians to conquer Israel, emphasizing Israel's idolatry and disobedience.

Jeremiah 19:5
Condemns the practice of child sacrifice, which was never commanded by God and is an abomination in His sight.