Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe term "Belial" is often associated with lawlessness and worthlessness in the Bible. It is used to describe individuals or entities that embody wickedness and rebellion against God. The concept of Belial is rooted in the Hebrew Bible and carries significant theological implications, particularly in understanding the nature of evil and moral corruption. Etymology and Usage The Hebrew word "בְּלִיַּעַל" (Belial) is derived from a combination of two words: "beli" meaning "without" and "ya'al" meaning "profit" or "worth." Thus, Belial can be understood as "worthlessness" or "lawlessness." In the Old Testament, the term is often used adjectivally to describe people who are corrupt or morally depraved. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, Belial is not used as a proper name but rather as a descriptor for individuals who act in defiance of God's laws. For example, in Deuteronomy 13:13, the term is used to describe "worthless men" who lead others to worship other gods: "Some worthless men have gone out from among you and have enticed the inhabitants of their city, saying, ‘Let us go and serve other gods’—gods you have not known." Similarly, in 1 Samuel 2:12, the sons of Eli are described as "worthless men" (sons of Belial) who "did not know the LORD." This usage underscores their moral and spiritual corruption, as they abused their priestly positions for personal gain. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the term "Belial" appears explicitly in 2 Corinthians 6:15, where the Apostle Paul contrasts Christ with Belial: "What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?" Here, Belial is personified and represents the antithesis of Christ, symbolizing the forces of evil and lawlessness that oppose the righteousness of God. Theological Implications The concept of Belial as lawlessness is significant in understanding the biblical worldview of good versus evil. Belial represents the rejection of divine authority and the embrace of moral chaos. This theme is consistent throughout Scripture, where lawlessness is seen as a rebellion against God's order and a path to destruction. In the broader biblical narrative, lawlessness is often associated with the influence of Satan and demonic forces. Belial, as a symbol of lawlessness, serves as a reminder of the spiritual battle between righteousness and wickedness, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and obedience to God's commandments. Conclusion While the term "Belial" is not frequently used in Scripture, its implications are profound. It serves as a stark warning against the dangers of lawlessness and the importance of adhering to God's moral and spiritual laws. Through the lens of Belial, believers are called to discern the forces of evil and to align themselves with the righteousness of Christ. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 13:13Certain men, the children of Belial, are gone out from among you, and have withdrawn the inhabitants of their city, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which you have not known; Nave's Topical Index 2 Corinthians 6:15 Library Thyatira Thy Kingdom Come Progress of Reform in Germany. Progress of Reform in Germany Resources Miscellaneous Bible Questions (All) | GotQuestions.orgIs it right for a Christian to date or marry a non-Christian? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about fun and entertainment? | GotQuestions.org Belial: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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