Topical Bible: Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Rimmon

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Topical Encyclopedia

Rimmon is a deity mentioned in the Bible, associated with the ancient Near Eastern pantheon. The name "Rimmon" is derived from the Hebrew word for "pomegranate," but in the context of idolatry, it refers to a specific god worshiped by the Arameans. This idol is primarily noted in the context of the narrative involving Naaman, a commander of the army of the king of Aram, as recorded in the Old Testament.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to Rimmon is found in 2 Kings 5:18, where Naaman, after being healed of leprosy by the prophet Elisha, expresses concern about his duties in the temple of Rimmon. The Berean Standard Bible translates this passage as follows:

"But may the LORD forgive your servant for this one thing: When my master goes into the temple of Rimmon to bow down and he leans on my arm, and I bow there also—may the LORD forgive your servant in this matter."

In this passage, Naaman acknowledges the LORD as the one true God but seeks forgiveness for his participation in the worship of Rimmon due to his obligations to the king of Aram. This highlights the tension between the worship of the God of Israel and the idolatrous practices prevalent in the surrounding nations.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Rimmon was likely a storm or weather god, similar to Hadad, another deity worshiped in the region. The worship of Rimmon would have included rituals and offerings intended to secure favor and protection, particularly in matters related to agriculture and warfare. The presence of such idols in the biblical narrative underscores the pervasive nature of idolatry in the ancient Near East and the challenges faced by those who sought to remain faithful to the God of Israel.

Theological Implications:

The account of Naaman and Rimmon serves as a poignant reminder of the struggle between monotheism and polytheism in the biblical world. It illustrates the pressure on individuals to conform to the religious practices of their culture, even when they have come to recognize the sovereignty of the God of Israel. Naaman's request for forgiveness reflects a desire to maintain his newfound faith while navigating the complexities of his societal role.

The account of Rimmon in Scripture is a testament to the enduring challenge of idolatry and the call for believers to remain steadfast in their devotion to God, resisting the allure of false gods and the cultural pressures that accompany them.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 5:18
In this thing the LORD pardon your servant, that when my master goes into the house of Rimmon to worship there, and he leans on my hand, and I bow myself in the house of Rimmon: when I bow down myself in the house of Rimmon, the LORD pardon your servant in this thing.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... I do find in most such a spirit of whoredom and idolatry concerning the learning ...
and your authors jump,[3] yet believe it for the sake of Scripture's authority ...
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