### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Malkâm**, represented by `{{H4445}}`, is identified as **Malcam or Milcom, the national idol of the Ammonites**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**. The word primarily functions as the name of a foreign deity, though it is also used once as a personal name in a genealogy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{H4445}}` is almost exclusively associated with idolatry. As **Milcom**, it is named as "the abomination of the Ammonites," whom Solomon followed [[1 Kings 11:5]]. This act of worship is given as a reason for God's judgment, because the people had forsaken Him for foreign gods, including "Milcom the god of the children of Ammon" [[1 Kings 11:33]]. A high place built by Solomon for **Milcom** was later defiled as part of King Josiah's reforms [[2 Kings 23:13]]. In a different context, the name **Malcham** appears in a genealogical list as a man begat by Hodesh [[1 Chronicles 8:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the context of `{{H4445}}` as a foreign idol:
* `{{H6253}}` **ʻAshtôreth** (Ashtoreth, the Phoenician goddess of love): This deity is frequently mentioned alongside **Milcom**. Solomon went after **Ashtoreth** the goddess of the Zidonians and after **Milcom** [[1 Kings 11:5]], and both were worshipped by the Israelites when they forsook God [[1 Kings 11:33]].
* `{{H3645}}` **Kᵉmôwsh** (the god of the Moabites; Chemosh): Often listed in the same context as **Milcom**, **Chemosh** is the "god of the Moabites" [[1 Kings 11:33]]. High places were built for both **Chemosh** and **Milcom**, which were later defiled [[2 Kings 23:13]].
* `{{H8251}}` **shiqqûwts** (disgusting...an idol; abominable filth, detestable thing): This term is used to describe **Milcom**, labeling the idol "the abomination of the Ammonites" [[1 Kings 11:5]]. This word defines the nature of such idols in God's eyes.
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used...of the supreme God): This word is applied to **Milcom**, identifying him as "the god of the children of Ammon" [[1 Kings 11:33]], which contrasts with its primary use to refer to the one true God of Israel [[Genesis 1:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4445}}` is significant in understanding Israel's relationship with God.
* **Symbol of Apostasy:** The worship of **Milcom** represents a direct violation of the covenant. It is cited as a key reason for Solomon's downfall and the subsequent division of the kingdom, as he and the people "have forsaken me, and have worshipped" **Milcom** among other gods [[1 Kings 11:33]].
* **National Idolatry:** **Milcom** is distinctly identified as the national god of the Ammonites ([[1 Kings 11:5]], [[1 Kings 11:33]]). This highlights the conflict between the exclusive worship of the LORD and the polytheistic practices of the surrounding nations.
* **Divine Condemnation:** The consistent description of **Milcom** as an "abomination" `{{H8251}}` underscores the divine perspective on idolatry. The high places dedicated to **Milcom** were eventually destroyed, signifying God's ultimate rejection of such worship [[2 Kings 23:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4445}}` serves as a potent biblical example of a foreign idol whose worship led to severe consequences. While it appears once as a personal name, its primary identity as **Milcom**, the "abomination of the Ammonites," marks it as a central figure in the narrative of Israel's spiritual decline under Solomon. Its presence in Scripture is a stark reminder of the dangers of idolatry and the call to exclusive faithfulness to God.
TRV