Adrammelech is identified in the Bible as a deity worshiped by the people of Sepharvaim, a region associated with Assyrian influence. The name "Adrammelech" is thought to mean "Adar is king" or "Adar is counselor," with Adar being a prominent deity in the Assyrian and Babylonian pantheon, often associated with the sun and war.

Biblical References:

Adrammelech is mentioned in 2 Kings 17:31, which states: "The Sepharvites burned their children in the fire as sacrifices to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim." This passage highlights the idolatrous practices of the Sepharvites, who were among the peoples resettled in Samaria by the Assyrian king after the fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The worship of Adrammelech involved child sacrifice, a practice that was abhorrent to the Israelites and strictly forbidden by the Mosaic Law (Leviticus 18:21).

The context of 2 Kings 17 describes the spiritual decline of Israel, attributing their downfall to the adoption of foreign gods and practices. The introduction of Adrammelech worship into the land of Israel is depicted as part of the broader syncretism and idolatry that led to divine judgment.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Adrammelech's association with child sacrifice aligns with the broader ancient Near Eastern practices where human sacrifices were sometimes offered to appease or gain favor from deities. The worship of Adrammelech, alongside Anammelech, reflects the polytheistic and often brutal religious customs of the Assyrian Empire and its vassal states.

The Assyrian Empire, known for its military prowess and cultural influence, often imposed its religious practices on conquered peoples. The resettlement policy, as seen in the case of the Sepharvites, was a strategy to prevent rebellion by mixing populations and diluting national identities. This policy also facilitated the spread of Assyrian religious practices, including the worship of deities like Adrammelech.

Theological Implications:

The worship of Adrammelech serves as a stark contrast to the monotheistic worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. The biblical narrative consistently condemns idolatry and the adoption of foreign religious practices, emphasizing the exclusive covenant relationship between Yahweh and His people. The presence of Adrammelech worship in Israel is portrayed as a violation of this covenant and a direct cause of divine judgment.

The biblical account of Adrammelech underscores the theme of faithfulness to God and the dangers of syncretism. It serves as a warning against the assimilation of pagan practices and the moral and spiritual corruption that accompanies idolatry.

Conclusion:

The mention of Adrammelech in the Bible is brief but significant, illustrating the pervasive influence of Assyrian culture and religion in the ancient Near East. It highlights the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their distinct identity and faith amidst foreign domination and cultural pressures.2 Kings 17:31
And the Avites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burnt their children in fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim.
Nave's Topical Index

152. Adrammelek -- "Adar is prince," an Assyr. idol, also a son of ...
... From 'adar and melek; splendor of (the) king; Adrammelek, the name of an Assyrian
idol, also of a son of Sennacherib -- Adrammelech. see HEBREW 'adar. ...
/hebrew/152.htm - 6k

'He Uttered his Voice, the Earth Melted'
... the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer ... We are not told where
the Assyrian army was ... and his corpse lay stretched before his idol, an object ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture g/he uttered his voice the.htm

The Triumph of Faith
... house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer ... that probably the notion
that the Assyrian army was ... and that bloody corpse before the idol that could ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture h/the triumph of faith.htm

The Woman of Samaria
... Indeed, the very idol-feasts and sacrifices were mixed ... their children in the fire,
to Adrammelech and Anammelech ... land to which the cruel Assyrian conqueror had ...
/.../kingsley/town and country sermons/sermon xxvi the woman of.htm

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