When the faithless Jewish leaders accused Christ of performing his miracles by the power of Beelzebub [also a code word for Satan], I wondered about their accusation. Who was "the god of Ekron" with that name? What I learned when I did some research was revolting. According to one account, bowel movements were associated with worship of this diety. Don't ask. There was more, none of it suitable for this forum. But here's a bit of background that is useful.
Rick Renner tells us, "The name Beelzebub was initially used by the Philistines of the Old Testament to describe the god of Ekron. It literally meant, “lord of the flies” (2 Kings 1:2-6). Originally, it was spelled Baalzebub. As time progressed, the Jews altered Baalzebub to Beelzebub, which added an even dimmer idea to this particular name of the devil. The new name (Beelzebub) now meant, “lord of the dunghill,” or “lord of the manure.”
Two powerful and important images of Satan are presented in these two names. First of all, he is presented as Baalzebub, the “lord of the flies.” This is clearly the picture of Satan masquerading himself as the lord of demon spirits.
Secondly, he is presented as Beelzebub, the “lord of the dunghill.” By adding this twist to this name of Satan, the Jews told us something very important about the devil. Both he and his evil spirits, like nasty, dirty flies, are attracted to “dunghills” or environments where rotting, stinking, carnality pervades. This is the environment where Satan thrives best."
While this may turn people's stomachs to read, it is vital to understand the clear image of disgusting evil. Even more, is to now understand the depth of the hatred of Jewish leaders in accusing the Savior of the world with this foul collusion. What an insult. How deeply this wounds my heart. Truly our Messiah descended below all things to rise to His throne above!
ReplyDeleteVery true, and so grievous!
DeleteEw. Good one, Mom.
ReplyDeleteThis was great! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteMight I enquire of the sources used to research "Beelzebub," that you found so revolting? So's I can go and do likewise (that is my own research)? ;-)
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Steven Montgomery
Steven, I sent you a folder to the email address listed on your blog.
ReplyDeleteThis morning as I read your post on Beelzebub, I thought how our children need to be taught about this. The world paints evil as so attractive, appealing and funny. The use of crude language is so common. It disturbs me that so many of our children's animated movies are filled with "potty humor", which causes the audience to roar with laughter. It's not funny, and this article helps explain why I have always been so uncomfortable with it.
ReplyDelete