Who Was Asherah in the Bible?
Asherah, known in the Hebrew as אֲשֵׁרָה (‘Asherah’), was a significant figure in the ancient Near Eastern religious landscape. She was a fertility goddess worshiped by various peoples, including the Canaanites, and often associated with the mother goddess concept. Asherah’s worship included the use of wooden symbols or poles, commonly referred to as “Asherah poles” (1 Kings 14:23), which were set up near altars or high places.
The Presence of Asherah in the Old Testament
The Bible frequently mentions Asherah in the context of idolatry and false worship. The Israelites were repeatedly warned against engaging in the worship of Asherah and other deities, as it was a direct violation of their covenant with Yahweh, the one true God. In Exodus 34:13, the Lord commands the Israelites to “break down their altars, smash their sacred stones and cut down their Asherah poles,” indicating the prevalence of Asherah worship among the neighboring nations and its detestable nature in God’s sight.
In the time of the Judges, we see the figure of Gideon being instructed by God to destroy his father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it (Judges 6:25-30). This act was not only a physical destruction of idolatrous symbols but also a spiritual declaration of allegiance to Yahweh.
Kings Asa and Hezekiah are noted for their reforms in removing Asherah worship from Israel. King Asa deposed his grandmother Maacah from her position as queen mother because she had made an obscene Asherah pole (1 Kings 15:13). King Hezekiah also “removed the high places, smashed the sacred stones, and cut down the Asherah poles” (2 Kings 18:4), demonstrating a commitment to purifying the worship practices of Israel.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Danger of Idolatry
The recurring theme of Asherah worship in the Old Testament serves as a stern warning against idolatry. Idolatry, in the biblical sense, is not limited to the worship of physical idols but extends to anything that takes precedence over the worship and obedience to God. For modern Christians, this can include wealth, power, relationships, or any form of obsession that detracts from our devotion to God. The story of Asherah emphasizes the importance of examining our lives for idols and actively removing them to maintain a pure and undivided devotion to God.
Upholding True Worship
The actions of figures like Gideon, Asa, and Hezekiah illustrate the importance of upholding true worship. True worship is characterized by obedience to God’s commandments and a rejection of practices that are contrary to His will. For contemporary believers, this calls for discernment and commitment to biblical principles in worship practices, ensuring that our worship is centered on Christ and aligned with the teachings of Scripture.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Jealous Love
The biblical narrative surrounding Asherah worship highlights God’s jealousy for His people’s worship. This jealousy is not akin to human envy but is a zealous love that desires the best for His people, which is found in a relationship with Him. The commandment against having other gods before Him (Exodus 20:3) is rooted in this protective love, seeking to guard His people from the spiritual harm that idolatry brings.
For modern Christians, understanding God’s jealousy helps in appreciating His love and the exclusivity of the relationship He desires with us. It calls us to a deeper commitment to Him, recognizing that our ultimate fulfillment and purpose are found in Him alone.
Connection to Jesus Christ
The Fulfillment of True Worship
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ fulfills the law and the prophets, providing the perfect example of true worship and obedience to God. He also becomes the mediator through whom we can approach God, rendering the old system of sacrifices and the associated idolatrous practices obsolete. The Apostle Paul warns against idolatry in the New Testament, urging believers to “flee from idolatry” (1 Corinthians 10:14) and to keep themselves from idols (1 John 5:21).
The worship of Asherah and other false gods in the Old Testament underscores the need for redemption and a savior. Jesus, the “image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15), fulfills this need, offering a relationship with God that is free from the bondage of idolatry.
Conclusion
Asherah’s presence in the Old Testament serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of idolatry and the importance of maintaining pure worship of the one true God. The consistent biblical condemnation of Asherah worship reflects the serious nature of idolatry and its consequences. For modern Christians, these accounts encourage vigilance against idolatry in all its forms, a commitment to true worship, and a deeper appreciation for the relationship we have with God through Jesus Christ. As we navigate our spiritual journey, let us continually seek to honor God above all else, recognizing His rightful place as the sole object of our worship and devotion.