Topical Bible: Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Nergal

◄ Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Nergal ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Nergal is a deity mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the context of idolatry and the syncretistic practices that were prevalent among the nations surrounding ancient Israel. Nergal was a god worshiped by the people of Cuth, a region associated with the Assyrian Empire. The worship of Nergal is indicative of the broader theme of idolatry that the Israelites were repeatedly warned against throughout the Scriptures.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to Nergal is found in 2 Kings 17:30, which describes the idolatrous practices of the people who were settled in Samaria by the Assyrians after the exile of the northern kingdom of Israel. The verse states: "The men of Babylon made Succoth-benoth, the men of Cuth made Nergal, the men of Hamath made Ashima" . This passage highlights the introduction of foreign gods into the land of Israel, a direct violation of the covenantal command to worship Yahweh alone.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Nergal was a Mesopotamian deity associated with war, plague, and the underworld. He was often depicted as a god of destruction and death, reflecting the harsh realities of life in the ancient Near East. The worship of Nergal, like that of other foreign gods, was characterized by rituals and practices that were abhorrent to the Israelites, who were called to be a people set apart for the worship of the one true God.

The presence of Nergal worship in Samaria is a testament to the religious syncretism that occurred as a result of Assyrian resettlement policies. The Assyrians, after conquering a region, would often relocate populations to prevent rebellion and to integrate diverse cultures into their empire. This policy led to the introduction of various religious practices and deities into the lands they controlled, including the worship of Nergal in Israel.

Theological Implications:

The mention of Nergal in the Bible serves as a reminder of the constant temptation faced by the Israelites to adopt the religious practices of their neighbors. The worship of idols like Nergal was a direct affront to the first commandment, which states, "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3). The Israelites were called to exclusive loyalty to Yahweh, and the presence of foreign gods was a recurring source of spiritual and moral decline.

The biblical narrative consistently portrays idolatry as a grave sin that leads to judgment and exile. The worship of Nergal and other deities is depicted as a betrayal of the covenant relationship between God and His people. The prophets repeatedly warned against such practices, urging the Israelites to return to the worship of Yahweh and to forsake the idols of the nations.

In summary, Nergal represents one of the many foreign gods that infiltrated Israelite society, challenging their faithfulness to God. The biblical account of Nergal's worship underscores the dangers of idolatry and the importance of maintaining a pure and undivided devotion to the Lord.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 17:30
And the men of Babylon made Succothbenoth, and the men of Cuth made Nergal, and the men of Hamath made Ashima,
Torrey's Topical Textbook