### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word **Tartâq**, represented by `{{H8662}}`, is of foreign derivation and identifies **Tartak, a deity of the Avvites**. This term is extremely rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance serves to name one of the foreign idols established in Samaria by transplanted peoples.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole mention of `{{H8662}}` occurs in [[2 Kings 17:31]], which lists the gods created by the foreign nations that the king of Assyria settled in Samaria. The passage states, "And the Avites{H5757} made{H6213} Nibhaz{H5026} and **Tartak**{H8662}." This verse places the worship of **Tartak** in the context of widespread idolatry that replaced the worship of God in the land after the Israelites were exiled.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its surrounding context help clarify the setting of **Tartak**'s worship:
* `{{H5757}}` **ʻAvvîy** (an Avvite or native of Avvah): This identifies the specific people group responsible for making and worshipping **Tartak** [[2 Kings 17:31]].
* `{{H5026}}` **Nibchaz** (a deity of the Avites): This idol is mentioned in tandem with **Tartak**, indicating they were a pair of deities worshipped by the Avvites [[2 Kings 17:31]].
* `{{H152}}` **ʼĂdrammelek** (splendor of (the) king; Adrammelek, the name of an Assyrian idol): A deity worshipped by the Sepharvites through child sacrifice, mentioned in the same verse, highlighting the grim nature of the idolatry in the region [[2 Kings 17:31]].
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (gods in the ordinary sense): This general term is used to categorize the foreign deities, including **Adrammelech** and **Anammelech**, as false **gods** [[2 Kings 17:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8662}}` is derived entirely from its context as an example of idolatry.
* **The Creation of False Gods:** The Bible explicitly states that the Avites "**made**" `{{H6213}}` **Tartak**. This underscores the theological principle that idols are man-made objects, not divine beings.
* **Syncretism and Apostasy:** The worship of **Tartak** is part of a larger biblical narrative about the foreign peoples who brought their pagan practices into Samaria, corrupting the land after the exile of Israel.
* **Association with Paganism:** Though not directly attributed to the worship of **Tartak**, the same verse notes that the Sepharvites "**burnt**" `{{H8313}}` their **children** `{{H1121}}` in **fire** `{{H784}}` to their gods, placing **Tartak** within a passage that condemns practices abhorrent to God [[2 Kings 17:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8662}}` **Tartâq** is a name that represents the introduction of foreign, man-made idols into Samaria. Its single appearance in scripture serves as a specific example within a broader condemnation of pagan worship. While little is known about **Tartak** itself, its mention alongside other deities in [[2 Kings 17:31]] firmly establishes it as an object of false worship brought into the land by the Avvites.
TRV