(Hebrew: molech, king)
A divinity worshiped by the idolatrous Israelites, his cult being supposed to have been introduced into Israel by Solomon (3Kings 11); a form of Baal, representing the sun-god in his destructive aspect. His worship consisted of offering human sacrifices, especially children, causing them to "pass through the fire" after they had been put to death (4Kings 16,17).
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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