Introduction
According to the Webster dictionary, BA’AL, noun: An idol among the ancient Chaldeans and Syrians, representing the sun.
The word signifies also lord, or commander; and the character of the idol was varied by different nations, at different times. Thus baal Berith is supposed to signify the Lord of the Covenant; Baal Peor, or rather Baal Phegor, the Lord of the dead. Ps. cvi, Baal Zebub, the god of flies, etc. Assurance of Salvation Scriptures and Verses Explain
Who or What is Baal?
Baal (sometimes spelled Ba’al) was a title meaning “lord” in ancient Semitic languages and was used for several local gods in the Canaanite religion.
In the Bible, Baal is often portrayed as a false god worshipped by the Israelites when they turned from Yahweh. Baal worship often involved idolatry, fertility rituals, and sometimes child sacrifice.
Key Bible References to Baal
- Baal as a false god
- Judges 2:11-13 (KJV) “And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and served Baalim, and forsook the LORD God of their fathers…”
- Context: Israel repeatedly fell into sin by worshipping Baal and other idols after the death of Joshua.
- Conflict between Baal worship and Elijah
- 1 Kings 18:20-40 (KJV) Elijah confronts the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, demonstrating the power of the true God over Baal.
- This is a classic story showing Yahweh’s supremacy over Baal, especially through the miracle of fire consuming Elijah’s sacrifice.
- Condemnation of Baal worship
- Hosea 2:16-17 (KJV) “And it shall be at that day, saith the LORD, thou shalt call me Ishi; and shalt call me no more Baali.”
- Context: God symbolically renames Himself to show His covenant love and reject Baal as a rival deity.
- Israel tempted by Baal
- Judges 10:6 (KJV) “And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD, and served Baal and the groves…”
- Shows a recurring cycle of sin and repentance in Israel. 5 Powerful Bible Verses Needed for 2024
- Warning against idolatry
- 2 Kings 17:16 (KJV) “And they left all the commandments of the LORD their God, and made them molten images, even two calves, and made a grove, and worshipped all the host of heaven, and served Baal.”
- Context: The Northern Kingdom of Israel fell into Baal worship, which led to their exile.
