Jehu verwoest de tempel en het beeld van Baal 1569

This engraving by Philips Galle depicts Jehu destroying the temple and idol of Baal. Notice how Baal's idol dominates the scene, its destruction a vivid spectacle. The act of destroying idols is a motif deeply rooted in history. Consider the smashing of statues in ancient Egypt or the Reformation's iconoclasm. It appears time and time again. These acts are more than mere destruction; they are a rejection of an old order, a purging of what is deemed false. Here, the fire consuming Baal represents purification, but also the fervor of religious conviction. Fire, historically, can also represent enlightenment. Through flames, Jehu eradicates not just the idol, but also the memory and influence of Baal. This is a potent psychological act, engaging with our primal fears and desires for renewal. The cyclical progression of this symbol continues to resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.