Pronunciation: [məlˈɛt͡ʃ] (IPA) 
The word "molech" is spelled as /ˈmoʊlɛk/. It refers to a deity worshiped in ancient times, often associated with child sacrifice. The spelling of the word is derived from the Hebrew language, where it is written as מֹלֶךְ. The pronunciation of the word includes a long "o" sound and a soft "e" sound at the end. Despite its historical significance, the worship of molech is considered taboo in modern times due to its cruel nature.
Molech is a noun with historical and cultural significance. Derived from ancient Hebrew, Molech (also spelled Moloch) refers to an ancient deity worshiped by certain Canaanite and later Semitic peoples, including the Ammonites and Phoenicians. As a god of the Ammonites and a significant figure in their religious practices, Molech is often associated with child sacrifice.
In ancient times, Molech was commonly represented as a bronze statue of a bull-headed god with outstretched arms. The statue would be heated until it glowed, and infants or young children would be placed on its outstretched arms or into the structure within it, believed to be a fiery furnace, as an offering to the deity.
Over time, the name "Molech" has come to symbolize extreme or barbaric acts, particularly the sacrificing of innocent lives or the prioritization of personal gain over the well-being of others. The term is often used metaphorically to express criticism or condemnation of practices that involve sacrificing moral principles, valuing material wealth excessively, or causing harm to vulnerable individuals or societies.
As a word with historical and symbolic connotations, Molech serves as a reminder of the destructive potential of human behavior and the dangers of relinquishing ethical considerations in pursuit of personal or collective gain.
The etymology of the word "Molech" can be traced back to the Hebrew language. In Hebrew, the word is מֹלֶךְ (pronounced "mōleḵ"). It is believed to have originated from the root מָלַךְ (pronounced "mālaḵ"), which means "to reign" or "to be king" in Hebrew.
"Molech" is specifically referenced in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament, where it is associated with idolatry and pagan worship. It was the name of a Canaanite god associated with child sacrifice, and is often depicted as a deity with whom fires were used for ritual offerings.
As for the origin of the Hebrew word itself, scholars trace it to ancient Semitic languages, such as Phoenician and Ugaritic.
