They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to new gods that came newly up, whom your fathers feared not.
They offered sacrifices to demons, not to God; to gods they didn't know, to new gods that had recently appeared, gods that your ancestors never worshipped or feared.
This verse describes how God's people abandoned Him to worship false gods and demons that were completely foreign to their heritage.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Deuteronomy, Moses is reciting a song that warns the Israelites about the consequences of turning away from God as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. This verse specifically highlights how the people might sacrifice to foreign gods or demons that were unknown to their ancestors, reflecting the influence of surrounding polytheistic cultures in the ancient Near East. Such idolatry was a real threat, as neighboring nations often introduced new deities through conquests and cultural exchanges.
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