### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Báal**, represented by `{{G896}}`, is of Hebrew origin and refers to a Phœnician deity. It appears **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the Bible, where it is used as a potent symbol of idolatry.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical usage of `{{G896}}` occurs in [[Romans 11:4]]. In this passage, the name is mentioned within a divine declaration. When discussing the remnant of Israel, the text asks what "the answer of God" `{{G5538}}` was to Elijah. The response is that God has reserved seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to **Baal**. This context establishes **Baal** as a primary object of false worship, which stands in direct opposition to faithfulness to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the act of rejecting **Baal**:
* `{{G1119}}` **góny** (the "knee"): This word is used in the definitive phrase "bowed the **knee**" `{{G1119}}` to Baal, signifying submission and worship [[Romans 11:4]]. The same act is redirected toward God and Jesus Christ in other passages ([[Romans 14:11]], [[Philippians 2:10]]).
* `{{G2578}}` **kámptō** (to bend): This verb describes the physical action of worship. The faithful remnant is defined by their refusal to **bow** `{{G2578}}` the knee to the idol [[Romans 11:4]].
* `{{G5538}}` **chrēmatismós** (a divine response or revelation): The mention of Baal is framed by this term. It is within "the **answer of God**" `{{G5538}}` that the rejection of Baal is confirmed as the sign of a faithful remnant [[Romans 11:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G896}}` is centered on the theme of idolatry versus true worship.
* **Symbol of Idolatry:** As stated in its definition, **Baal** functions as the archetype of idolatry. To bow to **Baal** is to turn away from the one true God.
* **The Faithful Remnant:** The sole New Testament reference uses **Baal** as a benchmark for faithfulness. The defining characteristic of God's reserved people is that they have not participated in this specific act of idolatry [[Romans 11:4]].
* **Exclusive Worship:** The associated act of not bowing the knee `{{G1119}}` to **Baal** underscores the principle of exclusive devotion. True worship requires a complete rejection of false gods.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G896}}` serves as a concise and powerful symbol for idolatry within the biblical text. Its solitary appearance in [[Romans 11:4]] is not a casual mention but a crucial element in a divine statement, used to define the nature of God's faithful remnant. The word illustrates how loyalty to God is demonstrated by the explicit refusal to give worship and submission to any other deity.
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