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

But if the people of the land
This phrase refers to the collective responsibility of the community in ancient Israel. The Hebrew word for "people" is "עַם" (am), which often denotes a group bound by common identity and covenant with God. The "land" signifies the Promised Land, a gift from God to the Israelites, where they were to live according to His statutes. This phrase underscores the communal nature of the covenant and the shared duty to uphold God's laws.

ever hide their eyes
The Hebrew root for "hide" is "עָלַם" (alam), meaning to conceal or ignore. This phrase suggests a willful neglect or turning away from sin. In the context of ancient Israel, it was a serious offense to ignore idolatry or child sacrifice, as these acts were direct violations of God's commandments. The phrase calls for vigilance and moral courage among the people to confront and address sin within their community.

from that man
"That man" refers to an individual who commits the grievous sin of sacrificing a child to Molech. The specificity of "that man" highlights personal accountability. In the ancient Near Eastern context, Molech worship involved detestable practices, and identifying the perpetrator was crucial for maintaining the holiness of the community.

when he gives any of his children to Molech
The act of giving children to Molech was a form of idolatry and child sacrifice, condemned throughout Scripture. The Hebrew word for "gives" is "נָתַן" (natan), implying a deliberate act of offering. Molech was a Canaanite deity associated with fire and sacrifice. This practice was abhorrent to God, as it violated the sanctity of life and the exclusive worship due to Him alone.

and they fail to put him to death
The failure to execute justice reflects a breakdown in the community's adherence to God's law. The Hebrew word for "fail" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), meaning to neglect or omit. The prescribed penalty of death for such an act underscores the severity of the crime and the necessity of purging evil from among the people. This phrase emphasizes the importance of upholding divine justice to maintain the purity and holiness of the community.

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.