Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 17 - Verse 30

This verse from the book of 2 Kings in the Bible describes the different idols that were worshiped by various groups of people in ancient Babylon, Cuth, and Hamath. Succothbenoth, Nergal, and Ashima were all considered to be pagan gods by the Israelites. The worship of these idols was seen as a betrayal of the one true God, and a violation of the commandments against idolatry. The men of Babylon, Cuth, and Hamath were seduced by these false gods and turned away from the worship of Yahweh. Succothbenoth, Nergal, and Ashima represent the lure and temptation of other religions and beliefs that the Israelites were warned against time and time again in the Bible. This verse serves as a reminder of the dangers of worshiping false gods and straying from the path of righteousness that leads to God.

This verse from 2 Kings 17:30 lists the names of false gods worshipped by various people in Babylon, Cuth, and Hamath. Succothbenoth is associated with fertility and may have been connected to cultic practices involving temple prostitutes. Nergal was a deity associated with war and the underworld, worshipped in the city of Cuth. Ashima is a deity that remains largely mysterious, with some interpretations suggesting she was a goddess of fate or misfortune. These names reflect the diverse and syncretic religious beliefs of the ancient Near East, where different cultures often adopted and adapted the gods of their conquered territories. The mention of these false gods reminds readers of the sinful practices and spiritual corruption that led to the downfall of the Israelites and the destruction of their kingdoms. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of turning away from the true God and worshipping idols.