Baal in the Bible refers to several related Canaanite and Phoenician deities, most notably a god of fertility, rain, storms, and agriculture. The name "Baal" means "lord" or "master" in Semitic languages and was used both as a specific deity's name and as a title for various local gods in different regions, such as Baal-Peor and Baal-Hermon

. Baal was considered a supreme god in the Canaanite pantheon, often depicted as a storm god wielding a lightning bolt, symbolizing his power over nature and fertility

. According to Canaanite mythology, Baal was sometimes described as the son of El, the chief god, and Asherah, the sea goddess. He was known for defeating other gods like Yamm (sea god) and Mot (death god), affirming his dominance

. In the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament), Baal is portrayed as a false god and idol, rival to Yahweh, the God of Israel. The Israelites repeatedly fell into Baal worship despite God's commandments against idolatry, which led to prophetic confrontations such as Elijah's famous showdown with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, where God demonstrated His power over Baal by sending fire from heaven while Baal remained silent

. Baal worship involved rituals that were often condemned by the biblical writers, including sacrifices, sometimes human, and ecstatic rites. Over time, Baal worship declined among the Israelites, especially after exile and captivity, but it remained a significant symbol of idolatry and opposition to the God of Israel

. In the New Testament, Baal is linked to demonic forces, with Jesus referring to Satan as "Beelzebub," a name derived from Baal-Zebub, a Philistine god associated with flies

. In summary, Baal in the Bible is a title and name for various pagan deities worshiped by Israel's neighbors and sometimes by the Israelites themselves, representing fertility and storm gods who were ultimately denounced as false gods and idols opposed to the worship of the one true God, Yahweh