The prohibition of child sacrifice is a significant theme in the Bible, reflecting God's abhorrence of this practice and His call for the Israelites to maintain holiness and distinctiveness from surrounding nations. Child sacrifice, often associated with pagan worship, is explicitly condemned in several passages throughout the Scriptures.

Old Testament Context

The practice of child sacrifice is first mentioned in the context of the Canaanite deity Molech, to whom children were offered as burnt sacrifices. The Lord explicitly forbids this practice in the Law given to Moses. In Leviticus 18:21, God commands, "You must not give any of your children to be sacrificed to Molech, for you must not profane the name of your God. I am the LORD." This command underscores the sanctity of life and the holiness of God's name, which is desecrated by such abominable acts.

Further, in Leviticus 20:2-5, the Lord prescribes severe penalties for those who engage in or condone child sacrifice: "Tell the Israelites, 'Any Israelite or foreigner residing in Israel who gives any of his children to Molech must be put to death. The people of the land are to stone him. I Myself will set My face against that man and cut him off from his people, because he has given his offspring to Molech, defiling My sanctuary and profaning My holy name.'"

Historical Instances and Prophetic Condemnation

Despite these clear prohibitions, instances of child sacrifice occurred during periods of Israel's apostasy. King Ahaz of Judah is noted for engaging in this detestable practice, as recorded in 2 Kings 16:3: "He walked in the way of the kings of Israel and even sacrificed his son in the fire, according to the abominations of the nations that the LORD had driven out before the Israelites."

The prophets vehemently condemned child sacrifice, viewing it as a grave sin that provoked God's wrath. Jeremiah 7:31 highlights the Lord's denunciation: "They have built the high places of Topheth in the Valley of Hinnom to burn their sons and daughters in the fire—something I did not command, nor did it enter My mind."

Theological Implications

The prohibition of child sacrifice is rooted in the biblical understanding of God as the Creator and sustainer of life. Human life is sacred, created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), and thus must be protected and valued. The practice of child sacrifice is seen as a direct violation of the commandment against murder (Exodus 20:13) and an affront to God's sovereignty and holiness.

Moreover, the prohibition serves to distinguish the Israelites from the surrounding nations, emphasizing their unique covenant relationship with God. By rejecting such practices, the Israelites were to demonstrate their allegiance to the one true God and their commitment to His righteous standards.

New Testament Reflection

While the New Testament does not directly address child sacrifice, the principles underlying its prohibition are consistent with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. The New Testament upholds the sanctity of life and calls believers to love and protect the vulnerable, reflecting the heart of God as revealed in the Old Testament.

In summary, the biblical prohibition of child sacrifice is a profound testament to God's character and His desire for His people to live in holiness, justice, and love, distinct from the corrupt practices of the world.