Baali

A Hebrew title meaning “my lord” or “my master” (Hosea 2:16).

The title was rejected by God because it was associated with the Canaanite Baal. God chose to be called ’ishi, “my husband.” The meaning of the two terms were similar but was not associated with pagan practices. In a prophetic play on words, God stressed his covenantal love for his people and rejected any implication that he the same for Israel as Baal was for the Canaanites.

See Baal (Idol); God, Names of.