50+ Bible Verses About Killing Babies (And What They Mean)

Exploring the Bible can be a journey filled with unexpected discoveries. This article compiles 50 verses that touch on the sensitive and often controversial topic of killing babies.

These verses span different books and contexts, offering a range of perspectives. Some may find them unsettling, while others might see them as historical or allegorical. Either way, they provide a window into the complexities of ancient texts.

What Does the Bible Say About Killing Babies

The Bible's verses on killing babies are some of the most challenging and thought-provoking texts. They span various contexts, from war to prophecy, and often leave readers grappling with their meanings. These verses can be unsettling, but they also offer valuable lessons on compassion, justice, and the importance of staying true to one's values.

One key theme is the brutal reality of ancient warfare. Verses like 1 Samuel 15:3 and Joshua 6:21 depict the total destruction of cities, including infants. These passages remind us of the harshness of historical conflicts and the importance of striving for peace in our lives. They challenge us to reflect on the human cost of violence and the need for compassion.

Another theme is divine retribution. Verses such as Jeremiah 11:22 and Ezekiel 5:10 show the severe consequences of turning away from divine guidance. These texts urge us to consider the impact of our actions and the importance of living with integrity and faith. They remind us that our choices have profound effects on ourselves and others.

Lastly, the Bible speaks against sacrificing children to idols. Verses like Leviticus 18:21 and 2 Kings 17:17 highlight the misguided practices of ancient times. These passages encourage us to protect the innocent and reject harmful traditions. They call us to embrace compassion and integrity, guiding us toward a life that honors our deepest values.

Reflecting on these themes, we can find hope and guidance in the Bible's teachings. They remind us to act with compassion, seek justice, and stay true to our values, even in the face of adversity. By applying these lessons in our daily lives, we can create a more compassionate and just world.

50 Bible Verses About Killing Babies

10 Bible Verses on Killing Babies in War

1) 1 Samuel 15:3

Now go and attack Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and do not spare them. But kill both man and woman, infant and nursing child, ox and sheep, camel and donkey.

Meaning: This verse starkly illustrates the brutal realities of ancient warfare. It challenges us to grapple with the harshness of historical contexts and the complexities of divine commands in the Bible.

2) 2 Kings 8:12

And Hazael said, "Why is my lord weeping?" He answered, "Because I know the evil that you will do to the children of Israel: Their strongholds you will set on fire, and their young men you will kill with the sword; and you will dash their children, and rip open their women with child."

Meaning: While the world often teaches us to seek power and control, this verse reveals the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition and cruelty. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of violence and the importance of compassion in our actions.

3) Hosea 13:16

Samaria is held guilty, for she has rebelled against her God. They shall fall by the sword, their infants shall be dashed in pieces, and their women with child ripped open.

Meaning: This verse invites us to reflect on the severe consequences of turning away from divine guidance. It challenges us to reconsider the depth of our faith and the impact of our actions on those around us.

4) Nahum 3:10

Yet she was carried away, she went into captivity; her young children also were dashed to pieces at the head of every street; they cast lots for her honorable men, and all her great men were bound in chains.

Meaning: When you read this, consider the profound impact of losing everything you hold dear. It's a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of conflict.

5) Isaiah 13:16

Their children also will be dashed to pieces before their eyes; their houses will be plundered and their wives ravished.

Meaning: In our daily lives, this verse reminds us of the importance of protecting the vulnerable and standing against injustice. It calls us to be vigilant and compassionate, ensuring that we do not become desensitized to the suffering around us.

6) Jeremiah 51:22

With you also I will break in pieces man and woman; With you I will break in pieces old and young; With you I will break in pieces the young man and the maiden.

Meaning: How do we reconcile such harsh imagery with the idea of a loving deity? This verse challenges us to understand the complexities of divine justice, which often contrasts sharply with our human perceptions of fairness and mercy.

7) Lamentations 2:21

Young and old lie on the ground in the streets; My virgins and my young men have fallen by the sword; You have slain them in the day of Your anger, You have slaughtered and not pitied.

Meaning: It's like witnessing a storm that spares no one, leaving a trail of devastation. This verse challenges us to consider the weight of our actions and the importance of empathy in a world often marked by indifference.

8) Ezekiel 9:6

Utterly slay old and young men, maidens and little children and women; but do not come near anyone on whom is the mark; and begin at My sanctuary. So they began with the elders who were before the temple.

Meaning: It's like when you see a storm coming and you know some will be safe while others won't. This verse can stir a deep sense of urgency and reflection, reminding us of the importance of being marked by compassion and integrity in our daily lives.

9) Deuteronomy 2:34

And we took all his cities at that time, and we utterly destroyed the men, women, and little ones of every city; we left none remaining.

Meaning: The power of this verse lies in its stark portrayal of total destruction. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of conflict and the importance of striving for peace in our own lives.

10) Joshua 6:21

And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and woman, young and old, ox and sheep and donkey, with the edge of the sword.

Meaning: We often seek to preserve and protect, yet this verse challenges us to confront the harsh realities of total destruction. It invites us to reflect on the weight of our actions and the importance of striving for peace and compassion in our lives.

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11) Isaiah 13:18

Also their bows will dash the young men to pieces, and they will have no pity on the fruit of the womb; their eye will not spare children.

Meaning: It's a stark reminder of the harshness that can exist in the world. This verse teaches us the importance of nurturing compassion and empathy, even in the face of adversity.

12) Hosea 9:13

Just as I saw Ephraim like Tyre, planted in a pleasant place, so Ephraim will bring out his children to the murderer.

Meaning: It's like a wake-up call, urging us to recognize the consequences of our choices. Sometimes, what seems secure and prosperous can lead to unexpected and tragic outcomes.

13) Hosea 9:16

Ephraim is stricken, their root is dried up; they shall bear no fruit. Yes, were they to bear children, I would kill the darlings of their womb.

Meaning: This verse captures the devastating impact of divine judgment, urging us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the importance of staying true to our values.

14) Isaiah 14:21

Prepare slaughter for his children because of the iniquity of their fathers, Lest they rise up and possess the land, And fill the face of the world with cities.

Meaning: Embrace the importance of breaking cycles of wrongdoing in your life. By addressing and correcting past mistakes, you can create a better future for yourself and those around you.

15) Jeremiah 19:9

And I will cause them to eat the flesh of their sons and the flesh of their daughters, and everyone shall eat the flesh of his friend in the siege and in the desperation with which their enemies and those who seek their lives shall drive them to despair.

Meaning: In moments of overwhelming hardship, this verse can remind us of the resilience and strength we possess to endure and overcome even the most desperate situations.

16) Ezekiel 23:25

I will set My jealousy against you, and they shall deal furiously with you; they shall remove your nose and your ears, and your remnant shall fall by the sword; they shall take your sons and your daughters, and your remnant shall be devoured by fire.

Meaning: The verse paints a vivid picture of divine retribution, reminding us of the profound consequences of straying from our path. It underscores the importance of staying true to our values and the transformative power of redemption.

17) Amos 1:13

Thus says the Lord: "For three transgressions of the people of Ammon, and for four, I will not turn away its punishment, because they ripped open the women with child in Gilead, that they might enlarge their territory.

Meaning: When faced with the darkness of human cruelty, this verse reminds us of the importance of justice and the need to protect the innocent. It calls us to stand against such acts and strive for a world where compassion prevails over ambition.

18) Micah 5:6

They shall waste with the sword the land of Assyria, and the land of Nimrod at its entrances; thus He shall deliver us from the Assyrian, when he comes into our land and when he treads within our borders.

Meaning: In the midst of life's battles, remember that you are never alone. Divine protection and deliverance are always within reach, offering hope and strength.

19) Zechariah 14:2

For I will gather all the nations to battle against Jerusalem; The city shall be taken, The houses rifled, And the women ravished. Half of the city shall go into captivity, But the remnant of the people shall not be cut off from the city.

Meaning: Take a moment to reflect on the resilience and hope that can emerge from even the darkest times. This verse reminds us that no matter how dire the situation, there is always a remnant that holds the promise of renewal and redemption.

20) Isaiah 47:9

But these two things shall come to you in a moment, in one day: The loss of children, and widowhood. They shall come upon you in their fullness because of the multitude of your sorceries, for the great abundance of your enchantments.

Meaning: This verse captures the sudden and overwhelming nature of loss, urging us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the importance of living with integrity and compassion.

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21) Psalm 137:9

Happy the one who takes and dashes your little ones against the rock.

Meaning: In the face of overwhelming adversity, this verse can remind us of the strength and resilience we possess. It encourages us to hold onto hope and faith, even in the darkest of times.

22) Jeremiah 11:22

Therefore thus says the Lord of hosts: "Behold, I will punish them: The young men shall die by the sword, their sons and their daughters shall die by famine.

Meaning: Sometimes, we need a reminder that our actions have consequences, and it's never too late to turn back to what truly matters—love, forgiveness, and purpose.

23) Jeremiah 18:21

Therefore deliver up their children to the famine, and pour out their blood by the force of the sword; let their wives become widows and bereaved of their children. Let their men be put to death, their young men be slain by the sword in battle.

Meaning: Sometimes, the harshest moments in life push us toward profound growth and renewal. It's in these trials that we often find the strength to transform and deepen our faith.

24) Lamentations 4:10

The hands of the compassionate women have cooked their own children; They became food for them in the destruction of the daughter of my people.

Meaning: God's unwavering presence and promises remind us that even in the darkest times, there is a profound strength and resilience within us. This verse speaks to the enduring power of faith and the human spirit to overcome unimaginable hardships.

25) Ezekiel 5:10

Therefore fathers shall eat their sons in your midst, and sons shall eat their fathers; and I will execute judgments among you, and all of you who remain I will scatter to all the winds.

Meaning: Reflect on the profound consequences of our actions and the importance of nurturing compassion and integrity. Let this verse inspire you to make choices that foster unity and understanding in your life.

26) Isaiah 49:26

I will feed those who oppress you with their own flesh, And they shall be drunk with their own blood as with sweet wine. All flesh shall know That I, the Lord, am your Savior And your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.

Meaning: It's like a rock-solid promise you can lean on. God's words here offer unwavering assurance that He will stand up for you and bring justice, leaving no doubt about His power and commitment to protect and redeem.

27) Deuteronomy 28:53

You shall eat the fruit of your own body, the flesh of your sons and your daughters whom the Lord your God has given you, in the siege and desperate straits in which your enemy shall distress you.

Meaning: In ancient times, sieges were brutal, often leading to unimaginable desperation. This verse shifts our perspective, challenging us to see the depths of human suffering and the lengths to which people might go when pushed to their limits. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of compassion and the dire consequences of conflict.

28) Leviticus 26:29

You shall eat the flesh of your sons, and you shall eat the flesh of your daughters.

Meaning: In the darkest moments of despair, when everything seems lost, this verse reminds us of the profound consequences of turning away from our values. It's a stark contrast to the joy and peace we seek, urging us to hold onto compassion and integrity even in the face of chaos.

29) 2 Kings 6:29

So we boiled my son, and ate him. And I said to her on the next day, "Give your son, that we may eat him"; but she has hidden her son.

Meaning: Consider the depths of desperation and the lengths to which people might go when faced with extreme hardship. How can this verse challenge you to cultivate compassion and seek solutions that uplift rather than destroy?

30) Jeremiah 19:7

And I will make void the counsel of Judah and Jerusalem in this place, and I will cause them to fall by the sword before their enemies and by the hands of those who seek their lives; their corpses I will give as meat for the birds of the heaven and for the beasts of the earth.

Meaning: Sometimes, life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but remember that even in the darkest times, there is a greater plan at work. Trust that you are never alone and that strength and guidance are always within reach.

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31) Leviticus 18:21

And you shall not let any of your descendants pass through the fire to Molech, nor shall you profane the name of your God: I am the Lord.

Meaning: The phrase "pass through the fire" is like a stark warning sign. It's a reminder of the lengths people might go to for misguided beliefs, urging us to protect what we hold dear and stay true to our values, much like safeguarding a cherished family heirloom from harm.

32) Deuteronomy 12:31

You shall not worship the Lord your God in that way; for every abomination to the Lord which He hates they have done to their gods; for they burn even their sons and daughters in the fire to their gods.

Meaning: God's love and grace are unwavering, guiding us away from harmful practices and towards a life of peace and assurance. Trust in His promises, knowing that His ways are always for our good and protection.

33) 2 Kings 17:17

And they caused their sons and daughters to pass through the fire, practiced witchcraft and soothsaying, and sold themselves to do evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke Him to anger.

Meaning: There's a profound hope in knowing that we can choose a path of integrity and love, even when the world tempts us with shortcuts and deceit. This verse challenges us to reject harmful practices and embrace a life that honors our deepest values.

34) 2 Kings 21:6

Also he made his son pass through the fire, practiced soothsaying, used witchcraft, and consulted spiritists and mediums. He did much evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke Him to anger.

Meaning: It's a reminder that our choices have profound impacts. Hold onto the idea that staying true to your values can guide you through life's challenges, offering a path of integrity and peace.

35) 2 Chronicles 28:3

He burned incense in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, and burned his children in the fire, according to the abominations of the nations whom the Lord had cast out before the children of Israel.

Meaning: The vivid imagery in this verse captures the intensity of misguided devotion. Its poetic depth serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to our values and the beauty of a life lived with integrity.

36) 2 Chronicles 33:6

He caused his sons to pass through the fire in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom; he practiced soothsaying, used witchcraft and sorcery, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did much evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke Him to anger.

Meaning: In every season of life, remember that our choices shape our path. Stay true to your values, and you'll find a guiding light through both joy and hardship.

37) Jeremiah 7:31

And they have built the high places of Tophet, which is in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire, which I did not command, nor did it come into My heart.

Meaning: In light of this verse, remember the importance of protecting and cherishing the innocent. It calls us to reject harmful practices and embrace a life of compassion and integrity.

38) Jeremiah 19:5

They have also built the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings to Baal, which I did not command or speak, nor did it come into My mind.

Meaning: It's incredible to realize how deeply God cares for us, guiding us away from harm and towards His loving embrace. His wisdom and grace are always there, offering comfort and protection.

39) Ezekiel 16:20

Moreover you took your sons and your daughters, whom you bore to Me, and these you sacrificed to them to be devoured. Were your acts of harlotry a small matter,

Meaning: God's heart aches when we turn away from Him, yet His patience and love remain steadfast, inviting us back to a path of faith and integrity.

40) Ezekiel 20:31

For when you offer your gifts and make your sons pass through the fire, you defile yourselves with all your idols, even to this day. So shall I be inquired of by you, O house of Israel? As I live,” says the Lord God, “I will not be inquired of by you.

Meaning: In moments of uncertainty, this verse serves as a grounding reminder to stay true to your values and avoid paths that lead to harm. It encourages you to seek guidance and strength from a higher source, knowing that there is always a greater plan at work.

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41) 2 Kings 3:27

Then he took his eldest son who would have reigned in his place, and offered him as a burnt offering upon the wall; and there was great indignation against Israel. So they departed from him and returned to their own land.

Meaning: The power of sacrifice and the consequences of our actions can deeply impact those around us. This verse reminds us that even in the darkest moments, the choices we make can lead to profound change and reflection.

42) 2 Kings 16:3

But he walked in the way of the kings of Israel; indeed he made his son pass through the fire, according to the abominations of the nations whom the Lord had cast out from before the children of Israel.

Meaning: Sometimes, human nature leads us astray, but God's guidance is always there to bring us back. This verse reminds us to stay true to our values and avoid harmful practices, much like a wise elder advising us to choose the right path.

43) 2 Kings 17:31

And the Avites made Nibhaz and Tartak; and the Sepharvites burned their children in fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim.

Meaning: Even in the darkest times, God's guidance is a beacon of hope. Trust in His unwavering promises, knowing that His path leads to peace and protection.

44) 2 Kings 23:10

And he defiled Topheth, which is in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, that no man might make his son or his daughter pass through the fire to Molech.

Meaning: When you face difficult choices, remember that staying true to your values can guide you through even the toughest times. It's about protecting what matters most and finding strength in your convictions.

45) 2 Chronicles 33:9

So Manasseh seduced Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to do more evil than the nations whom the Lord had destroyed before the children of Israel.

Meaning: The timeless truth here is that our actions can lead others astray or guide them towards good. Embrace the opportunity to be a positive influence, showing love and integrity in all you do.

46) Psalm 106:37

They even sacrificed their sons and their daughters to demons.

Meaning: Faith can be a powerful anchor in turbulent times. Trust in God's unwavering love and protection, knowing that He is always there to guide and safeguard you.

47) Jeremiah 32:35

And they built the high places of Baal which are in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, to cause their sons and their daughters to pass through the fire to Molech, which I did not command them, nor did it come into My mind that they should do this abomination, to cause Judah to sin.

Meaning: God's presence is a constant source of guidance and protection. This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and align them with values that promote love and integrity, steering away from harmful practices.

48) Ezekiel 23:39

For after they had slain their children for their idols, on the same day they came into My sanctuary to profane it; and indeed thus they have done in the midst of My house.

Meaning: It's like finding a hidden gem of hope and renewal amidst the chaos. This verse reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is always a path back to grace and redemption.

49) Judges 11:31

Then it will be that whatever comes out of the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the people of Ammon, shall surely be the Lord’s, and I will offer it up as a burnt offering.

Meaning: Embrace the truth of this verse by recognizing the power of commitment and sacrifice in your daily life. Let your actions reflect your deepest values, showing love and faith through tangible deeds.

50) Judges 11:39

And it was so at the end of two months that she returned to her father, and he carried out his vow with her which he had vowed. She knew no man.

Meaning: Sometimes, life demands difficult choices that test our faith and resolve. Embrace the strength within you to honor your commitments, even when the path is tough.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Killing Babies

Applying the Bible's teachings about killing babies to our daily lives can help us cultivate compassion, justice, and integrity. These ancient texts, though challenging, offer valuable lessons that can guide our actions and attitudes.

Here are some practical steps to live out these biblical principles:

• Practice Compassion: Make a habit of showing kindness to those around you. Simple acts like listening to someone in need or offering a helping hand can make a big difference.
• Seek Justice: Stand up against injustice in your community. This could mean volunteering at a local shelter, supporting fair trade, or advocating for those who can't speak for themselves.
• Reflect on Your Actions: Take time each day to consider the impact of your choices. Ask yourself if your actions align with your values and make adjustments as needed.
• Pray for Guidance: Incorporate prayers into your daily routine, asking for wisdom and strength to live with integrity and compassion.
• Engage with Your Community: Join a local church group or community organization that focuses on helping others. Being part of a supportive community can reinforce positive habits and attitudes.

Remember, God's presence is always with you, offering strength and guidance. By living out these principles, you can make a meaningful impact in your life and the lives of others. Explore more prayers and Bible verses on PrayersFor or use our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.