2 Kings 17:17

to pass through the fire Of the character of this Moloch-worship, see above 2 Kings 16:3, note.

used divination and enchantments The former word probably refers to some way of seeking out guidance by lots, or by arrows with different marks on them, and the words on the selected one were taken as a direction what to do (cf. Ezekiel 21:21-22). The latter word refers to omens derived from sights or sounds. This was the way in which Joseph used his divining cup (Genesis 44:5).

sold themselves to do evil R.V. that which was evil. The phrase is used before of Ahab (1 Kings 21:25), who had assuredly been the leader of Israel into the worst of their idolatries.