Definition: And they built the high places of Baal, which [are] in the valley of the son of Hinnom, to cause their sons and their daughters to pass through [the fire] unto Molech; which I commanded them not, neither came it into my mind, that they should do this abomination, to cause Judah to sin.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 32:35. It’s a really important and troubling passage in the Bible about worship and idolatry. Here's a simplified explanation: What it says: “And they built the high places of Baal, which [are] in the valley of the son of Hinnom, to cause their sons and their daughters to pass through the fire unto Molech; which I commanded them not, neither came it into my mind, that they should do this abomination, to cause Judah to sin.” Here’s a breakdown: “They built the high places of Baal…” : This refers to worshiating a false god named Baal. Baal was a very old and powerful deity worshipped by the Canaanites (the people who lived in what is now Israel). It's important to understand that this wasn’t just about worship ; it was about offering sacrifices and making idols. “…which [are] in the valley of the son of Hinnom…” : This tells us where these high places were located – a very dark and desolate place called the "valley of the Son of Hinnom." This valley is described as being filled with filth and evil. It’s a place of intense negativity. “…to cause their sons and their daughters to pass through the fire unto Molech;” : This is the crucial part. Jeremiah is telling us that they were actively causing a terrible thing: They were sacrificing a child, called Molech, to this false god Baal. Molech was considered an evil god because he was seen as a destroyer of everything. “Which I commanded them not, neither came it into my mind, that they should do this abomination, to cause Judah to sin.” : This is where the worry comes in. Jeremiah says he (God) didn’t forbid this act, and he didn't even think about it before it happened. He was completely surprised and dismayed by what their people were doing. He realized that they were deliberately provoking God’s wrath – causing sin and trouble among the Israelites. So, what's the big takeaway? This verse is a warning about the dangers of idolatry – worshipping false gods instead of worshiping Yahweh (God). It highlights that people can make choices that are harmful to their nation, even when they don’t fully understand the consequences. It shows a serious crisis in Israel and calls for God's judgment on them. Why is this important? This passage is part of a larger story in the Bible about a period of great conflict and division in Israel. It's a reminder that resisting temptation and prioritizing God’s will over human desires is essential for a righteous life. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss what "idolatry" means in more detail? Connect this passage to other stories or themes in the Bible?