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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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