Are any Greek or Roman gods mentioned by name in the Bible?
Also, are any Greek or Roman mythological characters or creatures mentioned in the Bible?
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See also 2 Maccabees 6:2.– user46876Nov 17, 2021 at 1:09
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2 Answers
Yes, several different Romans and Greek gods are mentioned. Artemis, Zeus, and Hermes are all Greek gods and Ashteroth was known as Astarte or Aphrodite to the Greeks.
Artemis was also known to the Romans as Diana and Ashteroth was known to them as Venus.
When they heard this they were enraged and were crying out, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” Acts 19:28 ESV
Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. Acts 14:12 ESV
After three months we set sail in a ship that had wintered in the island, a ship of Alexandria, with the twin gods as a figurehead. Acts 28:11 ESV [This apparently refers to Castor and Pollux.]
For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. 1 Kings 11:5 ESV
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@Mawia Indeed, they are not. I mentioned there were others as well and included those to support the claim. I have tried to clarify that. Thank you.– NarnianAug 29, 2013 at 14:45
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1@Mawia: Have a look at Baal's mythology. You might be surprised at how closely he resembles Zeus.– Mason Wheeler ♦Aug 29, 2013 at 16:24
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As a quick plug, some scholars think that the Nephilim mentioned in the Old Testament may be the inspiration for some of the pagan gods and demigods that were worshiped throughout history. See What were the Nephilim, and what role did they play in the Bible beyond just being mentioned? for more information. Aug 29, 2013 at 17:01
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2Also, if you look at the Septuagint, there is the mention of a few other gods, including Ar(i)es. For example, Judges 8:13 in the LXX: καὶ ἐπέστρεψεν Γεδεων υἱὸς Ιωας ἀπὸ τῆς παρατάξεως ἀπὸ ἐπάνωθεν τῆς παρατάξεως Αρες. Aries. You'd have to read the entire LXX to see if there's more. I just happened to notice that particular one on an occasion.– user900Aug 29, 2013 at 17:53
Thanatos, Hades, and Tartarus are mentioned too, though more in relation to the places (though they are anthropomorphized).
Thanatos (Death) is described as the last enemy that is destroyed.
The bible also says that all the "gods" of the Gentiles are in fact demons.
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This answer would be acceptable if you could add references. See What makes a good supported answer? Mar 2, 2016 at 1:53