Topical Bible: Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Nebo

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Nebo, also known as Nabu, is a significant idol mentioned in the Bible, particularly within the context of Babylonian worship. Nebo was revered as the god of wisdom, writing, and vegetation, and was considered the son of Marduk, the chief deity of Babylon. The worship of Nebo was prevalent in the ancient Near East, especially in Babylon and Assyria, where he was often depicted with a stylus and a tablet, symbolizing his association with writing and knowledge.

The biblical reference to Nebo is found in the book of Isaiah, where the prophet speaks against the idols of Babylon. In Isaiah 46:1 , it is written: "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 futility and burden of idol worship, contrasting the impotence of these idols with the power and sovereignty of the God of Israel. The imagery of Nebo stooping low signifies the downfall and humiliation of false gods before the true God.

Nebo's worship was deeply ingrained in the culture and religious practices of Babylon, and his name appears in various Babylonian inscriptions and texts. The city of Borsippa, near Babylon, was a major center for the worship of Nebo, and it housed a significant temple dedicated to him. The prominence of Nebo in Babylonian society is further evidenced by the fact that several Babylonian kings, such as Nebuchadnezzar, incorporated his name into their own, indicating the deity's esteemed status.

The biblical denunciation of Nebo and other idols serves as a reminder of the monotheistic faith of Israel, which stands in stark contrast to the polytheistic practices of surrounding nations. The prophets of Israel consistently called the people to reject idolatry and to worship the one true God, who is not made by human hands and who does not require the support of beasts of burden.

In the broader biblical narrative, the mention of Nebo and other idols underscores the recurring theme of idolatry as a spiritual and moral challenge for the people of God. The prophets' messages against idols like Nebo are part of a larger call to faithfulness and obedience to the covenant with Yahweh, the God of Israel, who alone is worthy of worship and adoration.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 46:1
Bel bows down, Nebo stoops, their idols were on the beasts, and on the cattle: your carriages were heavy laden; they are a burden to the weary beast.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Chapter xi
... the city and the tower are mentioned separately in v.4 ... first building already appointed
to these idols; because we do not believe that idolatry had developed ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xi.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... The prophets, their struggle against Phonician idolatry, the story ... and statue of
Dagon are mentioned in the ... harmony with history and other parts of Scripture. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm