Question About Ancient Canaanite Influence and “False Israelites

Shalom Rabbi, I’ve been studying the history of Israel and came across references in the Tanakh about Israelites adopting Canaanite practices—particularly worship of Moloch and Baal (e.g., Jeremiah 7, Ezekiel 8, Leviticus 18:21). My question is: Is it possible that some groups or individuals identifying as Israelites (or Jews later on) continued secretly practicing Canaanite-influenced worship? And are there Jewish teachings or traditions that talk about “false Israelites”—people who claim Israel’s identity but live by corrupt or idolatrous values? I’m asking purely out of curiosity and a desire to understand the history and spiritual warnings in the Bible. I deeply respect Jewish tradition and would love to hear your thoughts. Toda raba ???? Cyrus Reign Meeks Georgitso

Shalom!

Thank you for your question.

Yes, there were many instances in the Biblical and Talmudic era of Jews unfortunately worship idol and false g-d's in both public and private.

This is not the best forum to elaborate on this as we focus on questions in Jewish law.