Leviticus 18:21

Arabic Bible AVD 1999 (الكتاب المقدس)

وَلَا تُعْطِ مِنْ زَرْعِكَ لِلْإِجَازَةِ لِمُولَكَ لِئَلَّا تُدَنِّسَ ٱسْمَ إِلَهِكَ. أَنَا ٱلرَّبُّ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse commands that no one should offer their children to Molech by passing them through fire, which was a pagan ritual. It also emphasizes not to profane God's name. The speaker is God, giving a direct command to the Israelites.

Explained for Children

Imagine if someone told you that to be part of their team, you had to jump through a big, scary fire. That's what Molech wanted, and it was very dangerous and wrong. God tells us not to do that and to respect His name.

Historical Background

This verse is part of the Book of Leviticus, written by Moses around 1400 BC. It was given to the Israelites as part of God's laws. The Israelites were surrounded by cultures that practiced child sacrifice, which was deeply abhorrent to God.

Living It Out Today

In today's context, this verse reminds us to avoid harmful practices in the name of religion or culture. For example, if a group pressures you to engage in risky behaviors, like extreme sports without safety, it's important to say no and follow what God commands.

Topics

• Idolatry
• Child Sacrifice
• God's Commands
• Respect for God
• Pagan Practices
• Religious Practices

Related Verses

• Leviticus 20:2-5
• Deuteronomy 18:10-12
• 2 Kings 16:3
• 2 Kings 23:10
• Jeremiah 32:35

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Molech?

Molech was a pagan god of the Ammonites, whose worship included the sacrifice of children by fire, a practice that was strictly forbidden by God.

What does it mean to profane God's name?

Profaning God's name involves behaving in a way that brings dishonor or disrespect to God's character and reputation among people.

Why is passing children through fire forbidden?

Passing children through fire was a form of human sacrifice, which is abhorrent to God. It's forbidden because it goes against God's command to love and protect children.

How can we avoid profaning God's name?

We can avoid profaning God's name by living a life that honors God's commands, being honest, and ensuring our actions reflect God's love and truth.