Topical Bible: Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Bel

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Topical Encyclopedia

Bel, also known as Marduk in Babylonian mythology, is one of the prominent idols mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the context of the Babylonian pantheon. The name "Bel" is derived from the Akkadian word "bēlu," meaning "lord" or "master," and it was often used as a title for various deities in the Mesopotamian region. In the Scriptures, Bel is depicted as a false god, representing the idolatrous practices that were prevalent among the Babylonians and a symbol of the spiritual corruption that the Israelites were warned against.

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah 46:1 : "Bel bows down, Nebo stoops low; their idols are borne by beasts of burden. The images that are carried about are burdensome, a burden for the weary." This passage highlights the impotence of Bel and other Babylonian idols, contrasting their inability to save or deliver with the power of the God of Israel. The imagery of Bel bowing down signifies the ultimate downfall and humiliation of false gods before the true God.

2. Jeremiah 50:2 : "Announce and declare among the nations, lift up a banner and proclaim it; keep nothing back, but say: 'Babylon will be captured; Bel will be put to shame, Marduk filled with terror. Her images will be put to shame, her idols filled with terror.'" Here, the prophet Jeremiah foretells the judgment and defeat of Babylon, emphasizing that Bel, as a representation of Babylonian idolatry, will be disgraced. This prophecy underscores the futility of trusting in idols and the certainty of God's sovereign judgment over nations and their gods.

3. Jeremiah 51:44 : "I will punish Bel in Babylon. I will make him spew out what he has swallowed. The nations will no longer stream to him, and the wall of Babylon will fall." This verse further illustrates God's intention to dismantle the power and influence of Bel, symbolizing the collapse of Babylon's religious and political structures. The imagery of Bel spewing out what he has swallowed suggests the undoing of his supposed power and the liberation of those who were under his influence.

Theological Significance:

In the biblical narrative, Bel serves as a representation of the broader theme of idolatry, which is consistently condemned throughout Scripture. The worship of Bel and other idols is portrayed as a deviation from the worship of the one true God, leading to spiritual and moral decay. The prophets' denunciations of Bel highlight the emptiness and deception inherent in idolatry, urging the people of God to remain faithful to Him alone.

The biblical portrayal of Bel also serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority over all creation, including the false gods of the nations. The downfall of Bel and the idols of Babylon is a testament to the power and sovereignty of God, who alone is worthy of worship and allegiance. Through these accounts, Scripture calls believers to reject idolatry in all its forms and to place their trust in the living God, who delivers and sustains His people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 50:2
Declare you among the nations, and publish, and set up a standard; publish, and conceal not: say, Babylon is taken, Bel is confounded, Merodach is broken in pieces; her idols are confounded, her images are broken in pieces.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 51:44
And I will punish Bel in Babylon, and I will bring forth out of his mouth that which he has swallowed up: and the nations shall not flow together any more to him: yes, the wall of Babylon shall fall.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Introduction.
... version, an angel, however, being just mentioned in Daniel's ... praised God, loved justice;
and hated idolatry; who took ... Bel and Dragon 27, the mocker of idols. ...
/.../daubney/the three additions to daniel a study/introduction.htm

CHAP. II. 4-25 (2-23).
... hvbiw] never occurs in the first-mentioned signification ... only increases [Pg 241]
the zeal in idolatry; compare Jeremiah ... effort is made to move the idols to help ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/chap ii 25-apr 2-23.htm

The Sixth vision "On Earth"
... 6; xvi.2; xx.7, 8). Doubtless the idols and idolatry ... head, and shown the source and
origin of all idolatry. ... The woman and the Beast are first mentioned in brief ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the sixth vision on earth.htm

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... for accusation on the points I have mentioned, however they ... But, since one who turns
to idolatry does not ... Thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /