from בַּעַל with pron. suff.; my master; Baali, a symbolical name for Jehovah; Baali.
Transliteration:Baʻălîy
Pronunciation:bah-al-ee'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1180}}` (Baʻălîy) is a unique and highly significant word, derived from the root `{{H1167}}` (Baʻal) combined with the first-person singular possessive pronominal suffix "-i." The root `{{H1167}}` itself carries a broad semantic range, encompassing meanings such as "owner," "master," "lord," and "husband." Thus, `{{H1180}}` literally translates to "my owner," "my master," "my lord," or "my husband." However, its profound theological weight stems from the negative connotations associated with the pagan deity Ba'al, which had become synonymous with idolatry in ancient Israel. The definition explicitly notes its symbolic use as a name for Yahweh, yet in a context of rejection and purification.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H1180}}` appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, making its sole occurrence exceptionally potent. This singular instance is found in [[Hosea 2:16]] (Hebrew 2:18):
"And in that day, declares the LORD, you will call me 'My Husband,' and no longer will you call me 'My Ba'al.'"
The context of Hosea 2 is crucial. This chapter describes God's judgment upon unfaithful Israel (likened to an unfaithful wife) for her spiritual adultery, followed by a promise of restoration and renewed covenant relationship. The verse [[Hosea 2:16]] marks a pivotal moment in this promised restoration. God declares a future time when Israel's language and understanding of Him will be purified.
The contrast drawn between `{{H1180}}` ("My Ba'al") and "Ishi" (אִישִׁי, from `{{H376}}`, meaning "my husband") is central to the passage's message. While `{{H1180}}` literally means "my master/husband," its association with the pagan cult of Ba'al rendered it unacceptable for addressing the true God. Israel had frequently assimilated pagan practices, even referring to Yahweh using terms associated with Ba'al worship, blurring the lines between true worship and idolatry. By forbidding the use of `{{H1180}}`, God explicitly severs any linguistic or conceptual tie between Himself and the false gods. He desires a relationship characterized by intimate, exclusive covenant fidelity, represented by "Ishi," rather than a relationship tainted by the syncretistic practices implied by `{{H1180}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is `{{H1167}}` (Baʻal), the root from which `{{H1180}}` is derived. Understanding the pervasive influence and negative theological implications of `{{H1167}}` as a pagan deity's name is essential for grasping the significance of `{{H1180}}`.
Crucially, `{{H1180}}` is contrasted with "Ishi" (אִישִׁי), derived from `{{H376}}` (ish), meaning "man" or "husband." This contrast in [[Hosea 2:16]] highlights the desired purity and intimacy of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, free from any association with idolatry.
Other related concepts include:
* **Covenant Theology:** The relationship between God and Israel is frequently depicted as a marriage covenant (e.g., [[Jeremiah 3:14]], [[Isaiah 54:5]], [[Ezekiel 16]]), emphasizing fidelity and exclusive devotion.
* **Idolatry and Syncretism:** The historical struggle against the worship of Ba'al throughout Israel's history (e.g., [[Judges 2:13]], [[1 Kings 18]], [[Jeremiah 2:8]]) provides the backdrop for God's rejection of `{{H1180}}`.
* **Divine Jealousy:** God's insistence on exclusive worship and His rejection of any linguistic association with false gods underscore His divine jealousy for His people's devotion.
### Theological Significance
The single occurrence of `{{H1180}}` carries profound theological weight, primarily revealing God's absolute demand for exclusive worship and His commitment to purifying His people.
1. **Rejection of Syncretism and Idolatry:** God's declaration in [[Hosea 2:16]] is a powerful renunciation of any form of syncretism. Even if the Israelites intended `{{H1180}}` to mean "my master" when addressing Yahweh, its association with the pagan Ba'al was intolerable. This demonstrates God's uncompromising nature regarding His unique identity and His refusal to be confused with or worshipped like false gods. He will not share His glory or His name with another.
2. **Divine Purity and Holiness:** The command to cease using `{{H1180}}` signifies God's desire to cleanse not only the actions but also the very language and thought patterns of His people. It speaks to the depth of His holiness, which cannot tolerate any taint of idolatry, even in nomenclature. This purification is part of His redemptive work to restore Israel to a state of unblemished devotion.
3. **Intimacy of Covenant Relationship:** The shift from `{{H1180}}` to "Ishi" underscores God's desire for a deep, intimate, and faithful covenant relationship with His people, akin to a devoted spouse. While "Ba'al" could denote a husband, its corrupted usage in Israel had rendered it unfit to describe the sacred bond between Yahweh and His chosen people. "Ishi" conveys a sense of partnership, affection, and mutual commitment that transcends mere ownership or lordship, highlighting God's loving initiative in restoring His unfaithful bride.
4. **Prophetic Hope and Restoration:** The context of Hosea's prophecy points to a future restoration where Israel will truly know Yahweh and worship Him purely. The rejection of `{{H1180}}` becomes a symbol of this renewed relationship, free from the spiritual adultery of the past, where God is acknowledged as the sole, true, and loving Husband.
### Summary
`{{H1180}}` (Baʻălîy), meaning "my master" or "my Ba'al," is a unique and highly significant term appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Hosea 2:16]]. Derived from `{{H1167}}` (Baʻal), it reflects Israel's past tendency to use language associated with pagan deities even when addressing Yahweh. In this pivotal passage, God explicitly declares that in the day of restoration, His people will no longer call Him `{{H1180}}` but rather "Ishi" (my Husband). This divine decree carries profound theological implications: it is an emphatic rejection of syncretism and idolatry, a demand for linguistic and spiritual purity, and a powerful affirmation of God's desire for an intimate, exclusive, and faithful covenant relationship with His people, free from any taint of the false gods. The word `{{H1180}}` thus serves as a stark reminder of God's uncompromising holiness and His gracious initiative to redeem and purify His beloved bride.
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