Nebhaz is a deity mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the syncretistic religious practices that emerged during the time of the Assyrian resettlement of Samaria. The reference to Nebhaz is found in 2 Kings 17:31, which states: "The Avvites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burned their children in the fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim."

Historical Context

The mention of Nebhaz occurs during the period following the Assyrian conquest of the Northern Kingdom of Israel in 722 B.C. The Assyrians, known for their policy of deporting conquered peoples and resettling foreign populations in their place, brought various groups into the region of Samaria. These groups included the Avvites, who are credited with the worship of Nebhaz. This period was marked by a blending of religious practices, as the new inhabitants introduced their own deities and rituals into the land of Israel.

Religious Significance

Nebhaz, along with other deities mentioned in 2 Kings 17, represents the idolatrous practices that were condemned by the biblical authors. The worship of foreign gods was seen as a direct violation of the covenant relationship between Yahweh and the people of Israel. The introduction of such deities was a significant factor in the spiritual decline of the Northern Kingdom, leading to its eventual downfall.

Etymology and Interpretation

The name "Nebhaz" is of uncertain origin, and there is limited information about the specific attributes or characteristics of this deity. Some scholars suggest that the name may be derived from a Semitic root, but the exact meaning remains speculative. The lack of additional historical or archaeological evidence makes it difficult to ascertain the precise nature of Nebhaz's worship or its role within the pantheon of gods revered by the Avvites.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the mention of Nebhaz serves as a cautionary example of the dangers of idolatry and the consequences of abandoning the worship of the one true God. The biblical narrative consistently emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to Yahweh and the rejection of foreign gods. The presence of Nebhaz and other deities in the land of Israel is portrayed as a corruption of true worship and a contributing factor to the nation's spiritual and moral decline.

Biblical Cross-References

The account of Nebhaz in 2 Kings 17 is part of a broader narrative that addresses the spiritual apostasy of Israel and Judah. Other passages that discuss the consequences of idolatry and the call to exclusive worship of Yahweh include Exodus 20:3-5, Deuteronomy 6:14-15, and Jeremiah 2:11-13. These scriptures underscore the consistent biblical theme of monotheism and the rejection of idolatrous practices.

In summary, Nebhaz is a minor yet significant figure within the biblical narrative, representing the syncretistic religious practices that emerged during the Assyrian resettlement of Samaria. The worship of Nebhaz and other foreign deities is depicted as a violation of the covenant with Yahweh, highlighting the theological emphasis on exclusive devotion to the God of Israel.Nebhaz

A god of the Avites, 2 Kings 17:31. Jewish interpreters say the name means barker, and affirm that this idol had the shape of a dog. Historical traces have also been found of the ancient worship of idols in the form of dogs among the Syrians. In the Zabian books, Nibhaz occurs as the "lord of darkness;" which, according to the character of Assyrian- Chaldean mythology, would point to an evil planetary demon.

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