of foreign derivation; Merodak, a Babylonian idol; Merodach. Compare מְרֹאדַךְ בַּלְאָדָן.
Transliteration:Mᵉrôdâk
Pronunciation:mer-o-dawk'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H4781 (מְרֹדָךְ, *Mᵉrôdâk*) is a proper noun of foreign derivation, specifically referring to Merodach, also known as Marduk. Marduk was the preeminent deity of the city of Babylon and the chief god of the Babylonian pantheon. His cult rose to significant prominence during the Old Babylonian period, particularly under Hammurabi, and he became the national god of Babylonia. Marduk was revered as the god of creation, wisdom, magic, water, and justice, and was often associated with kingship and the divine right of rulers. His name was frequently incorporated into the names of Babylonian kings and officials, underscoring his central role in their religious and political life. The term itself carries the semantic weight of ultimate power and divine authority within the Babylonian worldview, directly contrasting with the monotheistic understanding of Yahweh's singular sovereignty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word H4781 appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the prophetic book of Jeremiah:
* [[Jeremiah 50:2]]: "Declare among the nations and proclaim, set up a standard and proclaim, conceal it not; say, 'Babylon is captured, Bel is put to shame, Merodach is dismayed, her images are put to shame, her idols are dismayed.'"
In this singular occurrence, Merodach is presented alongside Bel (likely `{{H1078}}`, another prominent Babylonian deity, often identified with Marduk or a predecessor) as a primary object of divine judgment. The context of Jeremiah 50 is a sweeping prophecy against Babylon, foretelling its utter destruction and humiliation by the Lord. The phrase "Merodach is dismayed" signifies not merely the defeat of a nation, but the profound spiritual collapse of its false gods. The dismay of Merodach and the shame of Bel underscore the impotence of these venerated deities in the face of Yahweh's omnipotent decree. This passage serves as a powerful declaration of Yahweh's supremacy over all pagan gods and their associated empires, highlighting the futility of trusting in idols. The mention of "her images" and "her idols" further emphasizes the comprehensive nature of this divine judgment against Babylonian idolatry.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related concept to H4781 is the figure of Marduk himself, as the chief deity of Babylon.
* **Bel (`{{H1078}}`):** Directly mentioned alongside Merodach in [[Jeremiah 50:2]]. Bel, meaning "lord," was another significant Babylonian deity, often considered synonymous with Marduk or an earlier form of the same god. The pairing emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the judgment against the Babylonian pantheon.
* **Idolatry:** The concept of worshipping false gods, represented by Merodach, is central to the biblical critique. The Bible consistently condemns the worship of created things rather than the Creator, and Merodach embodies the pinnacle of this false worship in the Babylonian context.
* **Babylonian Kingship:** The name Merodach frequently appears in the names of Babylonian kings, such as Merodach-Baladan (מְרֹאדַךְ בַּלְאָדָן), who is mentioned in [[Isaiah 39:1]] and [[2 Kings 20:12]]. While Merodach-Baladan is a compound name and not directly H4781, it demonstrates the pervasive influence and reverence for the deity Merodach within Babylonian royal and political spheres. The fact that a king's name incorporates a god's name highlights the deep integration of the deity into the national identity and power structure, making the deity's "dismay" all the more significant for the nation's downfall.
### Theological Significance
The single, yet potent, appearance of H4781 carries profound theological weight within the prophetic literature.
* **Monotheism vs. Polytheism:** The declaration that "Merodach is dismayed" starkly contrasts the power and sovereignty of Yahweh with the utter impotence of pagan deities. It serves as a polemic against polytheism, asserting the uniqueness and unparalleled power of the God of Israel. Merodach, the supposed creator and sustainer of Babylon, is shown to be powerless to save his city or himself.
* **Divine Judgment and Sovereignty:** The prophecy in Jeremiah underscores Yahweh's absolute sovereignty over all nations, their rulers, and their gods. The downfall of Merodach is not merely a political event but a theological one, demonstrating that the Lord of Hosts is the true ruler of history, capable of bringing low even the most powerful human empires and their spiritual foundations. It is a testament to Yahweh's justice and His ultimate control over the destiny of nations.
* **Futility of Idolatry:** The "dismay" of Merodach serves as a powerful object lesson on the futility of trusting in idols. The passage warns against placing faith in human constructs, whether they be military might, political power, or false gods, rather than in the one true God. The humiliation of Merodach is a divine indictment against all forms of idolatry, reminding believers that only Yahweh is worthy of worship and trust.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The prophecy concerning Merodach's dismay anticipates the historical fall of Babylon, which eventually occurred at the hands of the Persians. This fulfillment validates the divine inspiration of the prophetic word and reinforces the reliability of God's promises and warnings.
### Summary
H4781 (מְרֹדָךְ, *Mᵉrôdâk*) refers to Merodach, or Marduk, the chief deity of ancient Babylon. Its sole biblical appearance in [[Jeremiah 50:2]] is highly significant, portraying Merodach as "dismayed" alongside Bel, signifying the utter defeat and humiliation of Babylon's gods and, by extension, the empire itself, at the hand of Yahweh. This powerful prophetic declaration serves as a profound theological statement affirming Yahweh's absolute sovereignty over all nations and their pagan deities. It underscores the biblical critique of idolatry, demonstrating the futility of trusting in false gods and highlighting the certainty of divine judgment against all forms of unrighteousness. The "dismay" of Merodach powerfully illustrates the incomparable might and authority of the God of Israel.
TRV