1. the worship of Baal, a deity in ancient Semitic religions, or the religious practices and beliefs associated with Baal
Usage: historical; religious
2. idolatry or false worship; devotion to something regarded as false or unworthy
Usage: figurative; archaic

Examples

• Ancient inscriptions provide evidence of baalism practiced throughout the Levant.
• The prophets of Israel condemned baalism as a violation of covenant law.
• Scholars debate the extent to which baalism influenced early Israelite religion.
• The temple ruins suggest that baalism was once a dominant religious practice in the region.
• Biblical texts frequently warn against the temptations of baalism and idol worship.