Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Ashe'rahs, often referred to in the plural form as "Asherim" or "Asheroth," are significant in the biblical narrative as objects of idolatrous worship. They are associated with the Canaanite goddess Asherah, a deity linked to fertility and motherhood. The presence and worship of Ashe'rahs are frequently condemned in the Old Testament, as they represent a departure from the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. Biblical References and Description: The term "Ashe'rah" can refer to both the goddess herself and the wooden cultic objects or poles that were erected in her honor. These objects were often placed near altars or high places dedicated to Baal, another prominent Canaanite deity. The Bible frequently mentions the destruction of these objects as part of religious reforms led by faithful kings and prophets. In Deuteronomy 16:21, the Israelites are explicitly commanded: "Do not set up any wooden Asherah pole beside the altar you build to the LORD your God." This command underscores the incompatibility of Asherah worship with the worship of Yahweh. The Book of Judges records the Israelites' repeated lapses into idolatry, including the worship of Baal and Asherah. Judges 3:7 states, "The Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD; they forgot the LORD their God and served the Baals and the Asherahs." Historical Context: The worship of Asherah was widespread among the Canaanites and other neighboring cultures. Asherah was often considered the consort of El, the chief god, and later associated with Baal. The Israelites, influenced by surrounding nations, frequently fell into the syncretistic practice of incorporating Asherah worship into their religious life, despite the clear prohibitions in the Mosaic Law. Religious Reforms and Destruction of Ashe'rahs: Throughout the history of Israel and Judah, several leaders undertook significant religious reforms to eradicate the worship of Asherah. King Hezekiah is noted for his efforts to purify the worship practices in Judah. 2 Kings 18:4 records, "He removed the high places, shattered the sacred stones, and cut down the Asherah poles." Similarly, King Josiah's reforms were comprehensive in their scope. 2 Kings 23:6 describes his actions: "He brought the Asherah pole from the house of the LORD to the Kidron Valley outside Jerusalem, burned it there, ground it to powder, and threw its dust on the graves of the common people." Prophetic Condemnation: The prophets of Israel consistently condemned the worship of Asherah and other foreign deities. The prophet Jeremiah, for instance, rebuked the people for their idolatry, warning of the consequences of forsaking the covenant with Yahweh. Jeremiah 17:2 highlights the pervasive nature of this idolatry: "Even their children remember their altars and Asherah poles by the green trees and on the high hills." Theological Implications: The presence of Ashe'rahs in Israelite worship represents a significant theological challenge, as it reflects the tension between the covenantal faithfulness demanded by Yahweh and the persistent temptation to adopt the religious practices of surrounding nations. The repeated cycles of idolatry and reform in the biblical narrative underscore the importance of exclusive devotion to Yahweh and the rejection of all forms of idolatry. Conclusion: The biblical account of Ashe'rahs serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of syncretism and the need for steadfast adherence to the worship of the one true God. The consistent biblical mandate to destroy these objects highlights the seriousness with which God views idolatry and the call for His people to remain distinct and holy. Concordance Ashe'rahs (2 Occurrences)2 Chronicles 19:3 2 Chronicles 33:3 Thesaurus Ashe'rahs (2 Occurrences)Ashe'rahs. Asherahs, Ashe'rahs. Asherim . Multi-Version Concordance Ashe'rahs (2 Occurrences). 2 Chronicles 19:3 Nevertheless there ... /a/ashe'rahs.htm - 7k Asherim (20 Occurrences) Asherahs (23 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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