Chemosh

Chemosh was the national god of the Moabites, a Semitic people whose kingdom was located east of the Dead Sea in what is now Jordan. His worship is attested in various ancient texts, most notably in the Hebrew Bible and on the Mesha Stele (also known as the Moabite Stone). The Mesha Stele, dating to the 9th century BCE, describes King Mesha of Moab's victories over Israel, attributing them to Chemosh. The name itself is believed to derive from a root meaning 'to handle' or 'to take away', possibly referring to his role in war or sacrifice.

In the Hebrew Bible, Chemosh is often depicted as a rival deity to Yahweh, and his worship is condemned by Israelite prophets. King Solomon is said to have built a high place for Chemosh in Jerusalem, a practice later denounced and destroyed by King Josiah. The association of Chemosh with human sacrifice, particularly child sacrifice, is mentioned in some biblical passages, further solidifying his negative portrayal within the Israelite narrative. Despite this, he was clearly a central and powerful figure in Moabite religion and culture.