As a subject matter expert in biblical studies, I can provide you with an explanation of the term "Baal" as it is used in the Bible.

In the Bible, the word Baal is a term that generally refers to a variety of pagan deities, particularly those associated with fertility and storms in the ancient Near East. The term is derived from the Semitic root "ba'al," which means "lord" or "master." It was common for different cultures to have their own local Baal, and these deities were often associated with natural phenomena and agricultural cycles.

Baal worship was one of the major forms of idolatry that the Hebrew people were warned against in the Old Testament. The worship of Baal involved practices that were considered abhorrent to the monotheistic faith of the Israelites, including child sacrifice and sexual rituals. The prophets of the Bible often condemned the worship of Baal and called for a return to the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel.

In the New Testament, the term Baal is not directly mentioned, but the concept of false worship and idolatry continues to be a theme, with Jesus and the apostles warning against the dangers of following other gods.

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Baal. "The name of many deities of the Semitic peoples" [Klein], late 14c., Biblical use is from Hebrew Ba'al, literally "owner, master, lord," from ba'al "he took possession of," also "he married;" related to Akkadian Belu (source of Hebrew Bel), name of Marduk.read more >>