The leaders of families in the half-tribe of Manasseh were brave warriors and famous men. They had the opportunity and the power to influence and to lead people in the right way but instead were unfaithful to God. It reminds us of the many famous people today, politicians, sports figures, actors, etc. who have great opportunity and power to influence and lead people in the right way. But how many of them do?

The word "prostituted" is used in today's reading. One of the definitions for the word prostitute is "one who sells one's abilities, talent, or name for an unworthy purpose". This is exactly what these leaders of the families from the tribe of Manasseh did. The unworthy purpose was to the gods of the people of the land (Baal, Asherah, Molech, Dagon). They left the only true God to go after worthless false gods.

In addition, spiritual prostitution means being unfaithful to God for the purpose of enriching oneself for the praise, position, prestige, possessions, power, etc. (the "Poisonous Ps of Pride").  Remember, we as Believers enjoy a spiritual marriage relationship as the Bride of Christ.  We can commit spiritual adultery or spiritual prostitution or we can honor our covenant with Him by living a faithful life.

King Ahaz of Judah "…sacrificed his sons in the fire following the detestable ways of the nations…"and "…offered sacrifices and burned incense at the high places…"
He sacrificed his sons in the Valley of Hinnon, south of Jerusalem. The Valley of Hinnon was a place of idolatrous sacrifices, including the sacrifice of humans. In order to put an end to these pagan abominations, King Josiah in later years polluted it with human bones and other corruptions. This valley came to be used then as the city garbage dump and also know as gehenna (often translated hell).

Notice we are continually warned about the "high places". If it sounds repetitious…it is. When God repeats something…that usually means PAY ATTENTION!