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Book of 1 Kings - Chapter 22 - Verse 53

22:53
For he served Baal, and worshipped him, and provoked to anger the LORD God of Israel, according to all that his father had done.

Meaning

These words are found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of 1 Kings. They refer to a king named Ahaziah who reigned in Israel after the death of his father, Ahab. The verse emphasizes how Ahaziah followed in the footsteps of his father by serving and worshiping Baal, a pagan god, instead of the LORD God of Israel. This act of idolatry provoked the anger of the LORD, as it went against the commandments given to the Israelites. By continuing in the sinful ways of his father, Ahaziah demonstrated a lack of faith and obedience to the one true God. This verse serves as a warning against the dangers of following false gods and straying from the path set by God. It highlights the consequences of disobedience and the importance of remaining faithful to God.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the act of serving Baal and worshipping him is described as provoking the LORD God of Israel to anger. Baal was a Canaanite god associated with fertility and agriculture, often depicted as a storm god. The worship of Baal was a common practice among the Israelites, despite being strictly prohibited by the LORD. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the consequences of turning away from the true God and worshiping idols. By choosing to serve Baal instead of the LORD, the individual mentioned in the verse not only disobeyed God's commandments but also fell into idolatry, which was a major sin in the eyes of God. This verse serves as a warning about the dangers of straying from the path of righteousness and the importance of staying faithful to the one true God.

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