Topical Bible: Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Nisroch

◄ Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Nisroch ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Nisroch is an Assyrian deity mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the context of the narrative surrounding the Assyrian king Sennacherib. The reference to Nisroch is found in the historical account of Sennacherib's assassination, which is recorded in the book of 2 Kings and the book of Isaiah.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 19:37 : "One day, while he was worshiping in the temple of his god Nisroch, his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer struck him down with the sword and escaped to the land of Ararat. And his son Esarhaddon reigned in his place."

2. Isaiah 37:38 : "One day, while he was worshiping in the temple of his god Nisroch, his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer struck him down with the sword and escaped to the land of Ararat. And his son Esarhaddon reigned in his place."

In these passages, Nisroch is identified as the god in whose temple Sennacherib was worshiping when he was assassinated by his own sons. The context of these events highlights the idolatrous practices of the Assyrians, who were known for their polytheistic worship and the veneration of various deities.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Assyrian Empire, during the reign of Sennacherib, was a dominant power in the ancient Near East. The Assyrians were known for their military prowess and their extensive pantheon of gods, which reflected their belief in the divine right to conquer and rule over other nations. Nisroch, although not extensively detailed in historical records outside the Bible, is considered one of the many gods worshiped by the Assyrians.

The worship of Nisroch, like other forms of idolatry, was in direct opposition to the monotheistic worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. The biblical narrative often contrasts the idolatrous practices of surrounding nations with the covenantal relationship between Yahweh and His people, Israel. The assassination of Sennacherib in the temple of Nisroch serves as a dramatic illustration of the futility and ultimate downfall associated with idolatry.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Nisroch in the Bible underscores the biblical condemnation of idolatry. The worship of idols, such as Nisroch, is portrayed as a deviation from the worship of the one true God. The biblical authors consistently emphasize that idols are powerless and that reliance on them leads to destruction and judgment.

The account of Sennacherib's death in the temple of Nisroch also serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over the nations. Despite the apparent power and might of the Assyrian Empire, the assassination of its king in the very place of his idolatrous worship demonstrates the ultimate authority of God over all earthly rulers and their gods.

In summary, Nisroch is a representation of the idolatrous practices that were prevalent among the nations surrounding Israel. The biblical narrative uses the account of Sennacherib's assassination to highlight the consequences of idolatry and to affirm the supremacy of Yahweh, the God of Israel.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 19:37
And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword: and they escaped into the land of Armenia. And Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead.
Torrey's Topical Textbook