1. plural of baal; false gods or idols worshipped in ancient Near Eastern religions, particularly in biblical contexts.
Usage: archaic; religious/biblical; primarily used in historical or theological discussions

Examples

• The ancient Israelites were warned against worshipping the baalim.
• Biblical texts frequently condemn the baalim as false deities.
• Prophets in the Old Testament spoke against the cult of the baalim.
• Archaeological evidence reveals temples dedicated to the baalim in Canaan.
• The baalim represented fertility gods in ancient Levantine religions.