Who is Belial in the Bible?

Belial is a figure that appears in the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament, and is often associated with wickedness, lawlessness, and worthlessness. The name "Belial" itself is derived from a Hebrew term that can be translated to mean "worthless," "lawless," or "wicked." Over time, Belial has come to be understood as a personification of evil, sometimes equated with Satan or a high-ranking demon in later Christian literature. To fully understand who Belial is in the Bible, it is essential to explore the various contexts in which the term appears and how it has been interpreted throughout biblical and extra-biblical texts.

In the Old Testament, the term "Belial" is used in a descriptive manner rather than as a proper noun. For example, in Deuteronomy 13:13, the term "sons of Belial" is used to describe individuals who lead others into idolatry: "Certain men, the children of Belial, are gone out from among you, and have withdrawn the inhabitants of their city, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which ye have not known." Here, Belial is not a specific entity but rather a term used to describe those who act in a corrupt or idolatrous manner.

Similarly, in 1 Samuel 2:12, the sons of Eli are described as "sons of Belial" because of their wicked behavior: "Now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial; they knew not the Lord." Again, Belial is used descriptively to signify their moral depravity and lack of reverence for God. This usage continues in other passages such as Judges 19:22 and 1 Kings 21:10, where "sons of Belial" refers to individuals of low moral character.

The transition of Belial from a descriptive term to a proper noun representing a specific demonic entity occurs more prominently in later Jewish literature and early Christian writings. In the intertestamental period, texts such as the Dead Sea Scrolls and the apocryphal literature begin to personify Belial as a leader of evil forces. For instance, in the War Scroll from the Dead Sea Scrolls, Belial is depicted as the leader of the forces of darkness in a cosmic battle against the forces of light: "But for corruption thou hast made Belial, an angel of hostility; all his dominion is in darkness, and his purpose is to bring about wickedness and guilt" (1QM 13:11).

In the New Testament, the name Belial appears explicitly in 2 Corinthians 6:15, where Paul contrasts Christ with Belial: "And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?" Here, Belial is clearly used as a proper noun, representing a personified force of evil in direct opposition to Christ. This passage underscores the absolute incompatibility between righteousness and wickedness, between the followers of Christ and the forces of evil.

The identification of Belial with Satan or a high-ranking demon is further solidified in later Christian literature. For example, in John Milton's "Paradise Lost," Belial is depicted as one of the fallen angels who followed Lucifer in his rebellion against God. Milton describes Belial as embodying sloth and vice, a figure who is persuasive and deceitful but ultimately corrupt and worthless. This portrayal aligns with the earlier biblical usage of Belial as a symbol of moral depravity and lawlessness.

Theologically, the concept of Belial serves as a powerful symbol of the forces of evil that oppose God and His purposes. Belial represents the antithesis of divine order, righteousness, and holiness. The usage of Belial in the Bible and subsequent literature highlights the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil, a theme that is central to the Christian faith.

Furthermore, the New Testament's use of Belial in 2 Corinthians 6:15 emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment and separation from evil influences. Paul’s rhetorical question, "And what concord hath Christ with Belial?" serves as a stark reminder to Christians to maintain their allegiance to Christ and to avoid any association with wickedness. This call to holiness and separation from evil is echoed throughout the New Testament, as believers are urged to live lives that reflect the character and purity of Christ.

In summary, Belial in the Bible is a multifaceted term that evolves from a descriptor of moral worthlessness and lawlessness to a personified embodiment of evil. While initially used to describe individuals of corrupt character, Belial later becomes identified as a demonic entity opposed to God and His people. This evolution in understanding underscores the biblical theme of the cosmic struggle between good and evil, a struggle that continues to be relevant for believers today. The figure of Belial serves as a potent reminder of the reality of evil and the necessity for Christians to remain vigilant, discerning, and committed to living lives that honor God.