Topical Encyclopedia Thammuz, also known as Tammuz, is a deity mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the book of Ezekiel. The name Thammuz is associated with a Mesopotamian god of fertility and agriculture, who was believed to die and rise annually, symbolizing the cycle of seasons. This deity's worship was characterized by mourning rituals, reflecting the death of vegetation during the dry season and its subsequent revival.Biblical Reference: The primary biblical reference to Thammuz is found in Ezekiel 8:14. In this passage, the prophet Ezekiel is shown a vision of the abominations being committed in the temple in Jerusalem. The text states: "Then He brought me to the entrance of the north gate of the house of the LORD, and I saw women sitting there, weeping for Tammuz." (Ezekiel 8:14) This verse highlights the idolatrous practices that had infiltrated the worship of Yahweh, as the women were engaged in mourning rituals for Thammuz, which were contrary to the worship of the God of Israel. Historical and Cultural Context: Thammuz was a significant figure in the ancient Near Eastern pantheon, particularly among the Sumerians, Akkadians, and Babylonians. He was often associated with the goddess Ishtar (Inanna), who was believed to descend into the underworld to rescue him, symbolizing the renewal of life and fertility. The mourning for Thammuz was part of a larger mythological narrative that depicted the seasonal cycle of death and rebirth. The worship of Thammuz involved lamentation and ritual mourning, which were intended to ensure the return of fertility and the continuation of agricultural productivity. These practices were deeply ingrained in the surrounding cultures and posed a significant temptation for the Israelites, who were repeatedly warned against adopting the idolatrous customs of their neighbors. Theological Implications: The mention of Thammuz in Ezekiel serves as a stark reminder of the syncretism that plagued Israel's religious life. The adoption of pagan rituals and the worship of foreign deities were seen as acts of spiritual adultery, violating the covenant relationship between God and His people. The presence of such practices in the temple, the very heart of Israel's worship, underscores the depth of the nation's apostasy. The weeping for Thammuz is emblematic of the broader struggle between the worship of the one true God and the allure of pagan religions. It highlights the constant challenge faced by the Israelites to remain faithful to Yahweh amidst the pervasive influence of surrounding cultures. Moral and Spiritual Lessons: The account of Thammuz in Ezekiel serves as a cautionary tale for believers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity in worship and devotion to God. It warns against the dangers of syncretism and the subtle ways in which idolatry can infiltrate and corrupt true worship. The passage calls for vigilance and a steadfast commitment to the exclusive worship of the Lord, rejecting all forms of idolatry and false religious practices. ATS Bible Dictionary ThammuzSee TAMMUZ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Alt. of Tammuz.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia THAMMUZtham'-uz (tammuz). Library Further Proofs, from Ezekiel. Summary of the Prophetic Argument ... Consider the Lilies of the Field The Eternal Name On the Morning of Christ's Nativity On the Morning of Christ's Nativity The Doxology The Birth of Mary the Holy Mother of God, and Very Glorious Mother ... Concerning the Unity of God . On the Article, I Believe in one God ... Thesaurus Thammuz... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) Alt. of Tammuz. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. THAMMUZ. tham'-uz (tammuz). See TAMMUZ. ... /t/thammuz.htm - 6k Thamnatha Thamar (1 Occurrence) Resources Thammuz: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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