Definition: Moreover he burnt incense in the valley of the son of Hinnom, and burnt his children in the fire, after the abominations of the heathen whom the LORD had cast out before the children of Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 28:3. It's a really shocking and disturbing passage that describes a horrific act of ritual sacrifice. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Story: The Scene: This verse comes from a time when the Israelites were in a very difficult situation – they were fleeing from the wrath of the Philistines and were lost and desperate. The Sacrifice: The story describes a man named “Hezekiah” (named after his father, Hezekiah) who was a priest in the temple of God. He performed a bizarre and incredibly wicked act: he burned incense and children in a fiery oven. The ‘Abominations’: “Abominations” is a strong word – it means something that is considered deeply offensive to God and is completely out of line with His will. These were the practices of the Philistines, who had previously been worshippers of other gods. What's Happening in Simple Terms: Incense & Children: Hezekiah was using incense – a special mixture of herbs used in religious rituals – and placing children inside it. This is considered a very serious transgression because children are sacred to God, and this act was seen as a direct challenge to the divine order. The Fire: The fire itself is symbolic; it represents God’s judgment and punishment. It's a way of expressing God's anger and displeasure with the Israelites’ choices. Why is this so disturbing? This event is incredibly shocking because it demonstrates a complete disregard for God’s laws and divine order. It signifies a profound spiritual crisis within the Israelite community, highlighting their lack of reverence and their willingness to defy God's guidance. It shows that they were not truly repentant or willing to change their ways. Important Note: This story is presented as a very disturbing example, and it’s important to understand that it's a story about sin and the consequences of disobedience. It’s a reminder of the seriousness of God’s law and the importance of seeking His guidance and obedience. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part of the verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context (why this story happened)? Compare it to other stories about ritual sacrifice in the Bible?