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Leviticus 20:3

And I will set my face against that man, and will cut him off from among his people; because he hath given of his seed unto Molech, to defile my sanctuary, and to profane my holy name.

Leviticus 20:3 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, God is expressing his disapproval towards those who sacrifice their children to Molech, an ancient Ammonite deity associated with child sacrifice. By offering their children to this false god, they are defiling God's sanctuary and profaning his holy name. This act goes against God's commandments and represents a complete betrayal of his divine presence. The consequences for such actions are severe, as God promises to set his face against those who engage in such practices and cut them off from among his people. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring God and following his laws, as well as the consequences of turning away from him and engaging in sinful practices. It emphasizes the seriousness of idolatry and the necessity of remaining faithful to God's commandments in order to receive his blessings and protection.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the phrase "he hath given of his seed unto Molech" is a reference to the practice of sacrificing children to the ancient Canaanite god, Molech. This act was considered abhorrent and detestable in the eyes of God. The word "Molech" itself is believed to be derived from the Hebrew word for "king," emphasizing the idolatrous nature of worshiping this false deity. By giving their children to Molech, the people were not only defiling God's sanctuary but also dishonoring His holy name. The act of sacrificing children was an ultimate betrayal of the covenant relationship between God and His people, resulting in severe consequences such as being cut off from the community. This verse serves as a stark warning against idolatry and the worship of false gods, emphasizing the importance of remaining faithful to the one true God.

Leviticus 20:3 in other translations

American Standard Version

I also will set my face against that man, and will cut him off from among his people; because he hath given of his seed unto Molech, to defile my sanctuary, and to profane my holy name.

World English Bible

I also will set my face against that person, and will cut him off from among his people because he has given of his seed to Molech, to defile my sanctuary, and to profane my holy name.

Douay-Rheims

And I will set my face against him: and I will cut him off from the midst of his people, because he hath given of his seed to Moloch, and hath defiled my sanctuary, and profaned my holy name.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And I will set my face against that man and cut him off from among his people, because he hath giuen his children vnto Molech, for to defile my Sanctuarie, and to pollute mine holy Name.