Topical Encyclopedia Nergal is a deity mentioned in the context of idol worship in the Old Testament, specifically within the narrative of the Assyrian resettlement of Samaria. The name Nergal is associated with Mesopotamian mythology, where he is recognized as a god of war, plague, and the underworld. His worship was prevalent among the ancient Babylonians and Assyrians, and he was often depicted as a fierce and destructive deity.Biblical Reference: The primary biblical reference to Nergal is found in 2 Kings 17:30, which describes the idolatrous practices of the peoples brought by the Assyrians to repopulate the cities of Samaria after the exile of the Israelites. The verse states: "The men of Babylon made Succoth-benoth, the men of Cuth made Nergal, the men of Hamath made Ashima" . This passage highlights the syncretism and religious pluralism that characterized the region following the Assyrian conquest. Historical and Cultural Context: Nergal's worship in the biblical account is indicative of the broader Assyrian policy of resettling conquered territories with people from various regions of their empire. This strategy aimed to dilute national identities and prevent rebellion by mixing different ethnic and religious groups. The introduction of foreign deities like Nergal into Samaria reflects the cultural and religious influences that the Assyrian Empire imposed on its vassal states. In Mesopotamian mythology, Nergal was often associated with the city of Cuth (or Cutha), which is consistent with the biblical mention of "the men of Cuth" making Nergal. His cult was centered in this city, and he was revered as a powerful and fearsome god. Nergal's attributes as a god of war and pestilence made him a fitting symbol of the Assyrian military might and their capacity to bring destruction upon their enemies. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the mention of Nergal and other foreign deities in the Bible serves as a stark contrast to the monotheistic worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. The presence of these idols in Samaria is portrayed as a direct violation of the covenantal relationship between God and His people, which demanded exclusive worship and allegiance to Yahweh alone. The biblical narrative often uses the worship of foreign gods as a symbol of Israel's unfaithfulness and the resulting divine judgment. The introduction of Nergal and other idols into the land of Israel underscores the spiritual and moral decline that led to the eventual downfall of the Northern Kingdom. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of idolatry and the importance of maintaining fidelity to the one true God. The biblical authors consistently condemn the worship of idols, emphasizing the futility and deception inherent in serving gods made by human hands. Conclusion: While the Bible provides limited information about Nergal, his inclusion in the narrative of 2 Kings 17 highlights the pervasive influence of idolatry in the ancient Near East and its impact on the people of Israel. The worship of Nergal and other foreign deities stands as a testament to the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their distinct religious identity amidst a polytheistic world. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 17:30And the men of Babylon made Succothbenoth, and the men of Cuth made Nergal, and the men of Hamath made Ashima, Nave's Topical Index Library Mongrel Religion The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Iranian Conquest Resources Nergal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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