Topical Encyclopedia
Maachah is a biblical figure associated with idolatry, particularly in the context of the divided monarchy of Israel and Judah. She is most notably recognized as the grandmother of Asa, the king of Judah, and the mother of Abijah (also known as Abijam), who reigned before Asa. Her account is primarily found in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles.
Background and Family LineageMaachah was the daughter of Absalom, the son of King David, making her a member of the royal lineage of Judah. She was married to Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and the first king of the southern kingdom of Judah after the division of the united monarchy. Through this marriage, she became the mother of Abijah, who succeeded Rehoboam as king.
Idolatrous PracticesMaachah's involvement in idolatry is highlighted during the reign of her grandson, Asa. The biblical narrative indicates that Maachah held a significant position of influence as the "queen mother" during the reigns of both her son Abijah and her grandson Asa. However, her influence was marred by her idolatrous practices, which were contrary to the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel.
In
1 Kings 15:13 , it is recorded: "He also removed his grandmother Maachah from her position as queen mother because she had made a repulsive Asherah pole. Asa cut down the pole and burned it in the Kidron Valley." This passage underscores Asa's commitment to religious reform and his determination to eradicate idolatry from Judah. The Asherah pole, associated with the Canaanite goddess Asherah, was a symbol of pagan worship, and its presence in the royal court was a significant affront to the worship of Yahweh.
Religious Reforms of AsaAsa's actions against Maachah's idolatry are further detailed in
2 Chronicles 15:16 : "King Asa also deposed his grandmother Maachah from her position as queen mother because she had made a repulsive Asherah pole. Asa cut down the pole, crushed it, and burned it in the Kidron Valley." This account emphasizes Asa's zeal for purifying the religious practices of Judah and his willingness to take decisive action against even his own family to uphold the covenantal faith.
Significance in Biblical NarrativeMaachah's account serves as a cautionary tale within the biblical narrative, illustrating the dangers of idolatry and the importance of fidelity to the worship of Yahweh. Her removal from power by Asa highlights the biblical theme of reform and the struggle against syncretism and pagan influences in the history of Israel and Judah.
The account of Maachah and her idolatrous practices provides insight into the religious challenges faced by the kings of Judah and the ongoing tension between the worship of Yahweh and the allure of surrounding pagan religions. Her account is a testament to the biblical call for exclusive devotion to God and the rejection of idolatry in all its forms.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Kings 15:13And also Maachah his mother, even her he removed from being queen, because she had made an idol in a grove; and Asa destroyed her idol, and burnt it by the brook Kidron.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
Asa
... Maachah, the king's mother, was a potent influence on the side of idolatry. It seemed
at first impossible to touch her. The king was indebted to her. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/asa.htm
The Kingdom Op Judah.
... Asa's mother, Maachah, a daughter of Absalom, even had an idol in a grove; but ... and
killed his seven brethren; and he permitted and encouraged idolatry in the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/yonge/the chosen people/lesson vii the kingdom op.htm
Resources
Is religious iconography considered idolatry? What is an icon? | GotQuestions.orgDo Catholics worship idols / practice idolatry? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the difference between fornication and adultery? | GotQuestions.orgIdolatry: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
