### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Molóch**, represented by `{{G3434}}`, is defined as an idol of Hebrew origin. This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a specific object of false worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3434}}` is in [[Acts 7:43]], within a speech of rebuke. The verse directly accuses the people of idolatry, stating, "Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of **Moloch**, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them" [[Acts 7:43]]. In this context, **Moloch** is presented not as an abstract concept but as a tangible focus of illicit worship, associated with a physical "tabernacle" and man-made "figures."
### Related Words & Concepts
The single occurrence of `{{G3434}}` is surrounded by words that clarify the nature of this idolatry:
* `{{G4633}}` **skēnḗ** (tabernacle): This word, meaning "a tent or cloth hut," is directly connected to **Moloch**. The people are accused of taking up "the **tabernacle** of Moloch," indicating a dedicated structure for this false worship [[Acts 7:43]].
* `{{G4352}}` **proskynéō** (worship): Defined as to "prostrate oneself in homage," this term specifies the action directed toward the figures of **Moloch**. This is the same word used to describe the worship that should be given only to God [[Matthew 4:10]].
* `{{G4481}}` **Rhemphán** (Remphan): This name for an Egyptian idol is mentioned in the same phrase as **Moloch**, indicating a pattern of worship directed at multiple false gods [[Acts 7:43]].
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This highlights the human origin of the idols, stating that the figures were something "ye **made** to worship them" [[Acts 7:43]], contrasting with the uncreated nature of the true God.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3434}}` is found in its stark representation of idolatry and its consequences.
* **Object of False Worship:** **Moloch** serves as a prime example of an idol, a created object receiving worship that is due only to God. The act of worshipping `{{G4352}}` these figures stands in direct opposition to the command to "worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve" [[Matthew 4:10]].
* **Rejection of God:** The act of taking up `{{G353}}` the tabernacle of **Moloch** is presented as an act of spiritual rebellion. It is a choice to serve a man-made figure rather than the true God `{{G2316}}`, who establishes a covenant to be "their God" [[Hebrews 8:10]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The worship of **Moloch** and Remphan is directly linked to divine punishment. The accusation in [[Acts 7:43]] concludes with the Lord's declaration of judgment: "and I will carry you away beyond Babylon."
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3434}}` **Molóch**, though mentioned only once, serves as a powerful symbol of idolatry within the biblical text. Its context in [[Acts 7:43]] frames it as a deliberate and tangible rejection of God, involving the creation of figures and a dedicated tabernacle for false worship. The term underscores the profound theological conflict between honoring created idols and offering exclusive worship to the one true God, highlighting the severe consequences of such misdirected devotion.
TRV