Topical Bible: Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Succothbenoth

◄ Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Succothbenoth ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Succothbenoth is one of the idols mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the context of the syncretistic practices that emerged during the time of the Assyrian resettlement of Samaria. The name "Succothbenoth" is found in 2 Kings 17:30, which describes the various deities worshiped by the people whom the Assyrians brought into the land of Israel after the fall of the Northern Kingdom.

Biblical Reference:
In 2 Kings 17:30 , the text states: "The men of Babylon made Succoth-benoth, the men of Cuth made Nergal, the men of Hamath made Ashima." This passage is part of a larger narrative detailing how the Assyrians, after conquering the Northern Kingdom of Israel, repopulated the area with people from various regions of their empire. These new inhabitants brought with them their own gods and religious practices, leading to a mixture of worship that included both the worship of Yahweh and various foreign deities.

Historical and Cultural Context:
The name "Succothbenoth" is believed to be of Babylonian origin, though its exact meaning and the nature of the deity it represents are not entirely clear. Some scholars suggest that "Succothbenoth" may refer to a goddess associated with fertility or protection, possibly linked to the Babylonian pantheon. The term "Succoth" can be translated as "booths" or "tents," and "benoth" may mean "daughters," leading some to speculate that the idol could have been associated with a cultic practice involving sacred prostitution or the veneration of female deities.

Theological Implications:
The worship of Succothbenoth, along with other foreign gods, was a direct violation of the first commandment given to the Israelites: "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3). The introduction of such idols into the land of Israel was seen as a significant factor in the spiritual decline and eventual downfall of the Northern Kingdom. The syncretism that resulted from the Assyrian resettlement diluted the worship of Yahweh and led to practices that were abominable in the sight of God.

Idolatry and Its Consequences:
The presence of idols like Succothbenoth in Israel serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of idolatry and the consequences of turning away from the worship of the one true God. Throughout the Old Testament, the prophets repeatedly warned the people of Israel about the perils of idolatry, emphasizing that such practices would lead to judgment and exile. The narrative in 2 Kings 17 underscores the importance of faithfulness to God and the need to reject all forms of idolatry.

In summary, Succothbenoth represents one of the many foreign deities that infiltrated Israelite worship during a time of national crisis and spiritual compromise. Its mention in Scripture highlights the ongoing struggle between the worship of Yahweh and the allure of pagan practices, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative.

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