נִסְרֹךְ

Nisrok, a Babylonian idol

Definition

Nisrok (נִסְרֹךְ) is the name of a Babylonian deity or idol mentioned in the Old Testament. The word appears only in the context of the Assyrian king Sennacherib's assassination, where he was worshiping in the temple of Nisrok when he was killed by his sons (2 Kings 19:37, Isaiah 37:38). As a proper noun of foreign origin, it refers specifically to this Mesopotamian god. The biblical text provides no further description of Nisrok's attributes or mythology, presenting it simply as a pagan object of worship in contrast to the God of Israel.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in two parallel historical accounts describing the same event: the death of King Sennacherib of Assyria. In both 2 Kings 19:37 and Isaiah 37:38, the text states that Sennacherib was murdered by his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer while he was 'worshiping in the temple of Nisrok his god.' The usage is identical in both passages, serving as a narrative detail that places the Assyrian king in the act of idolatry at the moment of his divinely ordained judgment.

Etymology

The etymology of נִסְרֹךְ (Niçrôk) is uncertain, as it is explicitly noted as being of foreign origin (likely Akkadian or another Mesopotamian language). Scholars have proposed various identifications, possibly linking it to the Assyrian god Nusku (a god of light and fire) or to Marduk, the chief god of Babylon, through a corrupted textual transmission. The Hebrew form likely represents a transliteration of the deity's name as heard or recorded by the biblical authors.

Semantic Range

Nisrok serves as a potent symbol of pagan idolatry and divine judgment in the biblical narrative. Its mention underscores the theological theme that those who oppose God and worship false deities will face ultimate downfall, as seen in Sennacherib's fate. The account highlights the supremacy of Yahweh over all supposed gods of the nations (Isaiah 37:16-20). Understanding this foreign name enriches reading by emphasizing the stark contrast between the living God of Israel and the impotent idols of Israel's enemies.

In its original cultural setting, Nisrok was understood as a deity within the Assyrian or Babylonian pantheon. The biblical record places Sennacherib worshiping this god in a temple, a common practice of royal piety in ancient Mesopotamia where kings sought divine favor. Modern readers might miss the profound irony: a king who mocked the God of Jerusalem (2 Kings 19:10-13) was struck down while seeking protection from his own god, demonstrating the powerlessness of the idol.

תְּרָפִים (terāphîm, H8655) — household idols or images, not a specific named deity like Nisrok. עֲצַבִּים (ʿaṣabbîm, H6091) — a general term for idols or carved images. גִּלּוּלִים (gillûlîm, H1544) — a derogatory term for idols, often translated 'dung pellets'.

Word Details

Scripture References