2 Kings 17:31: “The Avvites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burned their children in the fire as sacrifices to Adrammelek and Anammelek, the gods of Sepharvaim.”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes the continued idolatry and evil practices of the foreign settlers who had been relocated to Samaria after the exile of the Israelites. The Avvites made idols of Nibhaz and Tartak, while the Sepharvites engaged in the horrific practice of child sacrifice to their gods, Adrammelek and Anammelek. These practices were deeply offensive to God and represented the worst kind of idolatry, which included not only worshiping false gods but also committing grave moral atrocities such as child sacrifice. This verse highlights the depravity of the religious practices these groups brought with them into Samaria and the stark contrast between such actions and the worship of the true God, who condemns such practices.
Historical Context
After the Assyrian conquest of the Northern Kingdom of Israel in 722 B.C., the Assyrian king repopulated the land with people from other conquered nations. These settlers brought with them their native religious customs, which included the worship of idols and even the practice of child sacrifice, a practice strictly condemned in Israelite law. The mention of Adrammelek and Anammelek, gods of the Sepharvites, points to the extreme paganism that took root in Samaria after the Israelites were exiled. The people of Israel had struggled with idolatry, but the introduction of these foreign gods and their detestable practices took the region’s spiritual corruption to new depths.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse underscores the seriousness of idolatry and its destructive consequences. The worship of false gods is not just a harmless mistake—it can lead to moral decay and atrocities, as seen with the child sacrifices mentioned here. God had warned the Israelites not to mix with pagan nations or adopt their religious practices, precisely because of the devastating effects of such practices. This verse demonstrates that idolatry is not just about misplaced devotion but can lead to actions that deeply violate God’s moral law. It serves as a warning about the corrupting power of idolatry and the necessity of worshiping God alone in purity and truth.
Literary Analysis
This verse contrasts the practices of various groups, focusing on their specific forms of idol worship. The naming of gods like Nibhaz, Tartak, Adrammelek, and Anammelek emphasizes the personal and cultural identities these foreign gods held for the settlers. The mention of child sacrifice heightens the gravity of the situation, showing how far removed these practices were from anything acceptable to the God of Israel. The verse is direct and shocking in its presentation, meant to highlight the depth of spiritual corruption in Samaria at this time. The phrase “burned their children in the fire” is particularly jarring, designed to evoke a sense of horror at the consequences of idolatry.
Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 18:21 – God explicitly commands the Israelites not to sacrifice their children to Molek, a pagan practice that mirrors what the Sepharvites did in worshiping Adrammelek and Anammelek.
- Deuteronomy 12:31 – God condemns child sacrifice and other detestable practices of the nations Israel was to dispossess.
- Jeremiah 7:31 – The prophet Jeremiah rebukes the people of Judah for burning their sons and daughters in the fire, showing that this type of pagan practice had sadly spread even to parts of Israel.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of turning away from God and embracing the values or practices of the world. While child sacrifice is an extreme example, the underlying issue is idolatry—the act of giving devotion to something or someone other than God. This can happen in subtle ways when people allow materialism, status, or other pursuits to take precedence over their relationship with God. Christians are called to worship God in spirit and truth, avoiding any form of idolatry, no matter how culturally accepted it may seem. This verse challenges believers to examine their hearts and ensure that their devotion is fully to God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident even in the face of such deep idolatry and evil. While the practices described in this verse are horrific, God’s desire is always for people to turn away from sin and come back to Him. His laws against child sacrifice and idolatry were given to protect His people from the moral corruption and spiritual darkness that such practices bring. God’s love is not only about mercy but also about His holiness—He desires what is good, pure, and life-giving for His people. His commands against these practices show His deep concern for human life and flourishing.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights the need for a Savior who can rescue humanity from the depths of sin and idolatry. The horrific practices mentioned here show the extent of human depravity when people turn away from God. Jesus came to break the power of sin and to call people back to true worship of God. His sacrifice on the cross stands in stark contrast to the pagan practice of child sacrifice. Jesus, as the Son of God, offered Himself as a willing sacrifice to save humanity, showing the ultimate expression of God’s love. Where idolatry leads to death and destruction, Jesus brings life and restoration (John 10:10).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there “idols” in your life—things that compete with your devotion to God or lead you away from Him? How can you refocus on worshiping God alone?
- How does this verse challenge you to be vigilant against allowing worldly values or practices to influence your faith and actions?
- In what ways does Jesus’ sacrifice offer a way out of the spiritual darkness and idolatry that this verse describes? How can you respond to His call to worship God in spirit and truth?