Topical Encyclopedia Jerubbesheth is a name that appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the narrative surrounding Gideon, one of the judges of Israel. The name "Jerubbesheth" is a variant of "Jerubbaal," which means "Let Baal contend against him." This name was given to Gideon after he destroyed the altar of Baal, as recorded in the Book of Judges.Biblical Context The account of Gideon is found in the Book of Judges, chapters 6 to 8. Gideon, the son of Joash, was called by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. In Judges 6:25-32, Gideon is instructed by God to tear down his father's altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. In obedience, Gideon does so, and as a result, the people of the town demand his death. However, Joash, Gideon's father, defends him by saying, "If Baal is a god, let him contend for himself, since someone has torn down his altar" (Judges 6:31). Consequently, Gideon is given the name Jerubbaal, meaning "Let Baal contend." The name Jerubbesheth appears in 2 Samuel 11:21, where it is used in reference to Gideon. The context of this passage is a recounting of the death of Abimelech, the son of Gideon, during a battle at Thebez. The use of "Jerubbesheth" instead of "Jerubbaal" is part of a broader tendency in the Hebrew Scriptures to replace the element "Baal" with "Bosheth," which means "shame." This practice reflects the Israelites' disdain for the Canaanite deity Baal and their desire to avoid using his name. Theological Significance The account of Gideon, and by extension the name Jerubbesheth, highlights several key theological themes. First, it underscores the sovereignty of God over false deities. Gideon's actions in tearing down the altar of Baal demonstrate the impotence of idols and the supremacy of the God of Israel. The name Jerubbesheth serves as a reminder of this victory over idolatry. Second, the narrative emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience. Gideon's initial hesitance and subsequent courage illustrate the journey of faith that believers are called to undertake. Despite his doubts, Gideon obeys God's command, leading to the deliverance of Israel from their enemies. Lastly, the transformation of Gideon's name from Jerubbaal to Jerubbesheth reflects the ongoing struggle against idolatry in Israel's history. It serves as a testament to the cultural and religious shifts that occurred as the Israelites sought to distance themselves from the influence of surrounding pagan practices. Cultural and Historical Context The period of the judges was marked by cycles of apostasy, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. The Israelites frequently turned to the worship of Canaanite gods, including Baal, which led to their subjugation by neighboring peoples. The judges, like Gideon, were raised up by God to lead the people back to Him and to restore true worship. The replacement of "Baal" with "Bosheth" in names reflects the Israelites' rejection of Canaanite religion and their commitment to the worship of Yahweh. This linguistic shift is seen in other biblical names as well, such as Ishbosheth, the son of Saul, whose original name was Eshbaal. In summary, Jerubbesheth is a name that encapsulates the triumph of faith over idolatry and the enduring legacy of Gideon's obedience to God. It serves as a historical and theological marker within the narrative of Israel's judges. Concordance Jerub'besheth (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 11:21 Thesaurus Jerub-besheth (1 Occurrence)Jerub-besheth. Jerub'besheth, Jerub-besheth. Jeruel . Multi-Version Concordance Jerub-besheth (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 11:21 who ... /j/jerub-besheth.htm - 6k Jerub'besheth (1 Occurrence) Jerubbesheth (1 Occurrence) Meribbaal (2 Occurrences) Merib-baal (2 Occurrences) Jeruel (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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