What pagan practices was Israel avoiding?

A. Worship of Idols and Offerings to Demons

The Israelites were avoiding the worship of idols and offerings to demons, which was a common practice in the surrounding pagan nations. They were also avoiding the consumption of food offered to idols, which was a practice that was outlawed in Israel (Deut. 18:10-14). This practice was considered an abomination to God, and those who participated in it were considered to be defiling themselves and their worship of God.

B. Pagan Ritual Feasts and Orgies

The Israelites were also avoiding pagan ritual feasts and orgies, which were a significant temptation to their flesh. These feasts and orgies were a part of the pagan worship practices of the nations around them, and they would have enticed the Israelites to abandon their spiritual values and compromise their relationship with God. The Israelites were called to be holy, like God, and to avoid the corrupting influences of the surrounding cultures.

C. Child Sacrifice and Lewd Worship

The Israelites were also avoiding child sacrifice and lewd worship, which were practices that were associated with idol worship in the pagan nations. These practices were considered to be an abomination to God, and those who participated in them were considered to be defiling themselves and their worship of God. The Israelites were called to be a holy people, separate from the corrupting influences of the surrounding cultures, and to worship God in a manner that was pleasing to Him. By avoiding these pagan practices, the Israelites were able to maintain their spiritual purity and remain faithful to God.