Topical Encyclopedia Adramelech is a figure mentioned in the Bible, associated with both a pagan deity and a royal individual. The name "Adramelech" appears in two distinct contexts within the Scriptures, each carrying significant implications for understanding the religious and historical landscape of the ancient Near East.1. Adramelech as a Pagan Deity: Adramelech is identified as a god worshiped by the people of Sepharvaim, a city whose inhabitants were relocated to Samaria by the Assyrian king after the conquest of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. In 2 Kings 17:31, the Berean Standard Bible states: "The Sepharvites burned their children in the fire as sacrifices to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim." This passage highlights the idolatrous practices that were introduced into Israel following the Assyrian resettlement policy. The worship of Adramelech involved child sacrifice, a practice that was abhorrent to the God of Israel and strictly forbidden in the Mosaic Law (Leviticus 18:21; Deuteronomy 12:31). The introduction of such foreign deities and their associated rituals into the land of Israel was a direct violation of the covenantal relationship between God and His people. It underscores the syncretism and spiritual decline that characterized the period of the divided kingdom, ultimately leading to the judgment and exile of the Northern Kingdom. 2. Adramelech as a Royal Figure: Adramelech is also the name of a son of Sennacherib, the king of Assyria. In 2 Kings 19:37 , it is recorded: "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." This event is corroborated in Isaiah 37:38, where the same account is given. The assassination of Sennacherib by his own sons is a significant historical event, reflecting the political intrigue and instability within the Assyrian empire. The act of regicide by Adramelech and Sharezer may have been motivated by internal power struggles or dissatisfaction with Sennacherib's rule. Following the assassination, the two brothers fled to the land of Ararat, indicating a possible alliance or refuge sought in a region outside Assyrian control. This incident marks a pivotal moment in Assyrian history, as it led to the ascension of Esarhaddon, another son of Sennacherib, to the throne. In summary, Adramelech is a multifaceted figure within the biblical narrative, representing both the idolatrous practices that infiltrated Israel and the turbulent political dynamics of the Assyrian empire. The accounts of Adramelech serve as a reminder of the spiritual and moral challenges faced by God's people and the broader historical forces at play during the biblical era. Concordance Adramelech (1 Occurrence)2 Kings 19:37 Thesaurus Adramelech (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Adramelech (1 Occurrence). 2 Kings 19:37 and it cometh to pass, he is bowing himself in the house of Nisroch ... /a/adramelech.htm - 6k Adra Adrammelech (3 Occurrences) Sharezar (1 Occurrence) Share'zer (3 Occurrences) Reigneth (54 Occurrences) Bowing (35 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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