Topical Bible: Idolatry: Objects of, Worshipped with Libations

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In the biblical context, idolatry refers to the worship of idols or images as gods, and it is consistently condemned throughout Scripture. One of the practices associated with idolatry is the offering of libations, which are liquid offerings, often of wine or oil, poured out in honor of a deity. This practice is frequently mentioned in the Bible as part of the rituals performed by those who worship false gods.

Old Testament References

The Old Testament provides numerous instances where libations are associated with idolatrous practices. In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses warns the Israelites against adopting the idolatrous customs of the nations they will encounter in the Promised Land. Deuteronomy 32:37-38 states, "He will say: ‘Where are their gods, the rock in which they took refuge, who ate the fat of their sacrifices and drank the wine of their drink offerings? Let them rise up and help you; let them give you shelter.’" This passage highlights the futility of relying on idols that receive libations but offer no real protection or aid.

The prophet Isaiah also speaks against the practice of pouring out drink offerings to idols. In Isaiah 57:6 , it is written, "Your portion is among the smooth stones of the valley; indeed, they are your lot. Yes, to them you have poured out drink offerings and offered grain offerings. Should I relent because of these?" Here, God expresses His disapproval of the Israelites' idolatrous practices, including the pouring of libations to inanimate objects.

Jeremiah further condemns the practice in Jeremiah 7:18 : "The children gather wood, the fathers light the fire, and the women knead the dough to make cakes for the queen of heaven. They pour out drink offerings to other gods to provoke Me to anger." This verse illustrates the communal nature of idolatrous worship, involving entire families in the act of offering libations to false deities, thereby inciting God's wrath.

New Testament Context

While the New Testament does not explicitly mention the practice of libations in the context of idolatry, it continues to uphold the prohibition against idolatrous worship. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, warns against participating in pagan rituals and emphasizes the incompatibility of such practices with the Christian faith. In 1 Corinthians 10:20-21 , Paul writes, "No, but the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, not to God. And I do not want you to be participants with demons. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot partake in the table of the Lord and the table of demons."

Cultural and Historical Background

In the ancient Near Eastern cultures surrounding Israel, libations were a common element of religious ceremonies. These offerings were believed to appease the gods, secure their favor, or express gratitude. The Israelites, however, were called to worship Yahweh alone, and the incorporation of libations into their worship of other gods was a direct violation of the first commandment: "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3).

Theological Implications

The practice of offering libations to idols underscores the broader theological issue of idolatry, which is the misplacement of trust and devotion. By engaging in such practices, individuals demonstrate a reliance on created things rather than the Creator. The Bible consistently calls believers to exclusive worship of the one true God, who alone is worthy of honor and praise.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 57:6
Among the smooth stones of the stream is your portion; they, they are your lot: even to them have you poured a drink offering, you have offered a meat offering. Should I receive comfort in these?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 19:13
And the houses of Jerusalem, and the houses of the kings of Judah, shall be defiled as the place of Tophet, because of all the houses on whose roofs they have burned incense to all the host of heaven, and have poured out drink offerings to other gods.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Iranian Conquest
... rule of good!" and proceeded to pour libations in honour ... phenomena which were the
chief objects of worship ... that the earliest Achaemenids worshipped Ahura-mazda ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm