Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The term "Belial" is used in the Bible as a title and name for the devil, representing wickedness and worthlessness. It is often associated with lawlessness and rebellion against God. The name Belial is derived from a Hebrew word meaning "worthless" or "without profit," and it is used to describe individuals or entities that embody these characteristics. Biblical References: The name Belial appears in several passages throughout the Old Testament, often in the context of describing individuals who are corrupt or morally depraved. In the New Testament, the term is used to draw a stark contrast between righteousness and wickedness. 1. Old Testament Usage: · Deuteronomy 13:13 : "Some worthless men have gone out from among you and have enticed the inhabitants of their city, saying, ‘Let us go and serve other gods’—gods you have not known." Here, the term "worthless men" is translated from the Hebrew "sons of Belial," indicating individuals who lead others into idolatry and rebellion against God. · 1 Samuel 2:12 : "Now the sons of Eli were wicked men; they had no regard for the LORD." The phrase "wicked men" is again translated from "sons of Belial," highlighting their moral corruption and disregard for divine authority. · 2 Samuel 23:6 : "But the worthless are all like thorns raked aside, for they can never be gathered by hand." The "worthless" here refers to those who are aligned with Belial, symbolizing their ultimate rejection and destruction. 2. New Testament Usage: · 2 Corinthians 6:15 : "What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?" In this passage, Belial is used as a direct contrast to Christ, emphasizing the incompatibility between righteousness and evil. The apostle Paul uses the term to illustrate the spiritual dichotomy between followers of Christ and those who are aligned with wickedness. Theological Significance: Belial is not merely a descriptor of moral depravity but is often personified as a representation of Satan himself. In Jewish and Christian traditions, Belial is seen as a powerful adversary to God, embodying the essence of evil and opposition to divine order. The use of Belial in Scripture serves as a warning against the dangers of aligning oneself with wickedness and the inevitable consequences of such a path. Symbolism and Interpretation: Belial symbolizes the ultimate rejection of God's authority and the embrace of lawlessness. Those referred to as "sons of Belial" are depicted as individuals who have wholly given themselves over to sin and rebellion. The term serves as a stark reminder of the spiritual battle between good and evil, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to avoid the snares of the devil. Conclusion: While the term Belial is not as frequently used as other names for the devil, its presence in Scripture underscores the pervasive nature of evil and the constant threat it poses to the faithful. By understanding the implications of Belial, believers are better equipped to recognize and resist the forces of darkness in their spiritual journey. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 6:15And what concord has Christ with Belial? or what part has he that believes with an infidel? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Dialogue against the Luciferians. The Ascension of Isaiah. Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &C. The Influence of the King James Version on English Literature The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, The Doctrine Resources What are the different names and titles of the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the names and titles of the Holy Spirit? | GotQuestions.org What are the different names and titles of Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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