Topical Encyclopedia Baal-Berith, meaning "Lord of the Covenant," was a deity worshiped by the Shechemites, a Canaanite people residing in the city of Shechem. This god is mentioned in the context of Israel's recurring apostasy during the period of the Judges. The worship of Baal-Berith is indicative of the syncretism that plagued Israel, as they frequently turned to the gods of the surrounding nations, forsaking the covenant with Yahweh.Biblical References: 1. Judges 8:33 : "And as soon as Gideon died, the Israelites turned and prostituted themselves with the Baals. They made Baal-Berith their god." This passage highlights the Israelites' quick departure from the worship of Yahweh following the death of Gideon, a judge who had delivered them from Midianite oppression. The adoption of Baal-Berith as their god signifies a breach of their covenant with Yahweh, as they embraced the idolatrous practices of the Canaanites. 2. Judges 9:4 : "They gave him seventy shekels of silver from the temple of Baal-Berith, and with this Abimelech hired worthless and reckless men, who followed him." This verse refers to Abimelech, the son of Gideon, who used funds from the temple of Baal-Berith to finance his violent rise to power. The existence of a temple dedicated to Baal-Berith in Shechem underscores the organized and institutional nature of this idolatrous worship. 3. Judges 9:46 : "When all the leaders of the tower of Shechem heard about this, they entered the inner chamber of the temple of El-Berith." The mention of El-Berith, which may be another name or aspect of Baal-Berith, suggests a syncretistic blending of Canaanite deities. The leaders of Shechem sought refuge in this temple during Abimelech's attack, indicating its significance as a religious and possibly political center. Historical and Cultural Context: Baal-Berith's worship reflects the broader Canaanite religious landscape, characterized by a pantheon of gods and goddesses associated with fertility, weather, and war. The name "Baal" itself means "lord" or "master" and was a common title for various local deities. The addition of "Berith" (covenant) suggests a specific role or function, possibly as a deity overseeing agreements or treaties, which would have been significant in a city like Shechem, known for its strategic location and historical covenants (e.g., Genesis 12:6-7; Joshua 24:25). The Israelites' repeated turn to Baal-Berith and other Canaanite gods illustrates the spiritual and moral challenges they faced in maintaining their distinct identity and faithfulness to Yahweh amidst the pervasive influence of Canaanite culture. This apostasy often led to cycles of oppression and deliverance, as recorded in the Book of Judges, highlighting the consequences of forsaking the covenant with the one true God. Theological Implications: The worship of Baal-Berith serves as a cautionary example of the dangers of idolatry and syncretism. It underscores the importance of covenant fidelity and the need for spiritual vigilance. The narrative of Baal-Berith in the Book of Judges calls believers to recognize the subtle allure of cultural assimilation and the imperative to remain steadfast in their commitment to God, resisting the temptation to compromise their faith for the sake of societal acceptance or convenience. Nave's Topical Index Judges 9:4And they gave him three score and ten pieces of silver out of the house of Baalberith, with which Abimelech hired vain and light persons, which followed him. Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 1170. Baal Berith -- "Baal of (the) covenant," a Shechemite god... god NASB Word Usage Baal-berith (2). Baal-berith. From Ba'al and briyth; Baal of (the) covenant; Baal-Berith, a special deity of the Shechemites -- Baal-berith. ... /hebrew/1170.htm - 6k Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What is the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jehu destroy the Baal worship in Israel but not the worship of golden calves? | GotQuestions.org Why is Gideon referred to as Jerubbaal? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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