Baal
[bɑ:l]
Definition
(noun.) any of numerous local fertility and nature deities worshipped by ancient Semitic peoples; the Hebrews considered Baal a false god.
Editor: Miriam--From WordNet
Definition
(n.) The supreme male divinity of the Phoenician and Canaanitish nations.
(n.) The whole class of divinities to whom the name Baal was applied.
Editor: Rufus
Definition
n. the chief male deity of the Phœnician nations: a false god generally:—pl. Bā′alim.—ns. Bā′alism; Bā′alite.
Checked by Laurie
Unserious Contents or Definition
n. An old deity formerly much worshiped under various names. As Baal he was popular with the Phoenicians; as Belus or Bel he had the honor to be served by the priest Berosus who wrote the famous account of the Deluge; as Babel he had a tower partly erected to his glory on the Plain of Shinar. From Babel comes our English word 'babble. ' Under whatever name worshiped Baal is the Sun-god. As Beelzebub he is the god of flies which are begotten of the sun's rays on the stagnant water. In Physicia Baal is still worshiped as Bolus and as Belly he is adored and served with abundant sacrifice by the priests of Guttledom.
Typed by Allan
Examples
- They desert the worship of their own god Jehovah,[161] and worship Baal and Ashtaroth (= Bel and Ishtar). H. G. Wells. The Outline of History_Being a Plain History of Life and Mankind.
- Then Joshua began his terrible raid, and from Jericho clear to this Baal-Gad, he swept the land like the Genius of Destruction. Mark Twain. The Innocents Abroad.
- I mean, have you still faith in that Baal of a Lord Wellington? Charlotte Bronte. Shirley.
Edited by Hardy