The Hebrew Bible is replete with evidence suggesting that the ancient Israelites often worshiped the gods and goddesses of their Canaanite neighbors. Among these practices was the infamous Molech ritual, performed in the Ben Hinnom Valley at the foot of Jerusalem, which is believed to have involved the sacrifice of young children to the gods. From the tale of Isaac to the story of Jephthah’s daughter and the Molech rituals, this lecture will explore the controversial custom – one that all of Israel’s prophets vehemently condemned: the practice of child sacrifice. We will also examine its reflection in the archaeological findings from the biblical cultures, shedding light on the historical context and complexities of this hideous practice.

Assi Meshullam is a visual artist and an associate professor in the Art Department at the University of Haifa. He’s been fortunate to share his insights with diverse audiences over the years. Alongside his background in art, Meshullam holds a bachelor’s degree in archaeology and a master’s in biblical studies. His lectures often reflect a blend of these three disciplines, offering a unique perspective.

CSP Partners: Beth Israel (San Diego, CA), Beth Israel Congregation (Waterville, ME), Center for Small Town Judaism (Waterville, ME), Congregation Adath Jeshurun (Elkins Park, PA), Congregation B’nai Tzedek (Fountain Valley, CA), Congregation B’nai Israel (Tustin, CA), Jewish Collaborative of Orange County, Temple Bat Yahm (Newport Beach, CA), Temple Beth David (Westminster, CA),Temple Beth El of South Orange County (Aliso Viejo, CA), Temple Beth Ohr (La Mirada, CA), Temple Beth Shalom (Needham, MA), Temple Beth Sholom (Hull, MA), Temple Beth Sholom (Santa Ana, CA), Temple Emanuel (Newton, MA), Temple Judea of Laguna Woods, CA,  Town & Village Synagogue (NYC, NY), University Synagogue (Irvine, CA), Valley Beth Shalom (Encino, CA) & Walnut Street Synagogue (Chelsea, MA)