Bible Dictionary
BAALZEBUB
Baalzebub, meaning “Lord of flies,” was a Philistine deity worshiped at Ekron and apparently consulted for oracles. King Ahaziah’s appeal to him instead of the Lord was condemned by Elijah.
Definition
Baalzebub, meaning “Lord of flies,” was a deity worshiped by the Philistines at Ekron. The available biblical reference indicates that he was regarded as a god who gave oracles. The reason for the title is uncertain, and the original name may have been corrupted or lost.
Biblical Usage
Ahaziah, king of Israel, sought Baalzebub’s oracle concerning his illness instead of seeking the Lord. Elijah rebuked this act and declared that Ahaziah’s death would result from this insult to Yahweh.
Historical Background
Baalzebub was associated with Ekron, a Philistine city. Beyond the biblical account, the supplied material gives no certain explanation for the deity’s title.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>ba-al-ze'-bub ba`al zebhubh = "Lord of flies"; Baal-muian: A deity worshipped by the Philistines at Ekron (2Ki 1:2,3,6,16). All that can be gathered from this one reference to him in ancient literature is that he had some fame as a god that gave oracles. Ahaziah, son of Ahab, and king of Israel, went to consult him whether he should recover of his sickness, and was therefore rebuked by Elijah, who declared that his death would be the result of this insult to Yahweh. Why he was called "lord of flies," or whether his real name has not be en corrupted and lost are matters of conjecture. See BAAL (1).</p>