Βεελζεβούλ (Beelzeboul)
Beelzeboul
Beelzebul
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Beelzeboul appears in the Gospels as a title for Satan, specifically when Jesus’ opponents accuse Him of casting out demons by the power of this figure (Matthew 12:24; Mark 3:22). The term is indeclinable in Greek and likely derives from an Aramaic or Hebrew root meaning "lord of the house" or "lord of dung," serving as a derogatory parody of Baal, a Canaanite deity. In this context, it functions not merely as a proper name but as a label for the prince of evil spirits.
Translators often render this word as Beelzebub, a form that entered English through Latin and German traditions rather than direct Greek usage. The sources note that while some etymologies link it to "lord of flies" via a pun on the Hebrew word for dung, the New Testament usage clearly identifies the figure as the head of demonic forces. Jesus addresses this accusation directly in Luke 11:18-19, pointing out the logical inconsistency of Satan driving out Satan.
This designation highlights the spiritual conflict surrounding Jesus’ ministry. By attributing His miracles to Beelzeboul, critics attempted to discredit His divine authority. The Gospels record this title only in the Synoptic accounts, emphasizing the intensity of the opposition faced by Jesus during His earthly ministry.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Beelzeboul appears in the Gospels as a harsh label used by Jesus’ critics to discredit His work. They claimed He cast out demons by the power of this figure, effectively calling Him an agent of evil. This accusation reveals how deeply spiritual conflict can provoke hostility against truth. When faced with undeniable good, some respond not with curiosity but with slander.
Jesus did not ignore this charge. Instead, He exposed its logical failure: a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand. By pointing out that even His critics’ own associates performed similar acts, He showed their argument had no foundation. This moment invites us to consider how we respond when our faith is misunderstood or maligned.
For believers today, this passage offers comfort. If Jesus faced such intense opposition despite doing good, we are not alone in our struggles. The same Spirit who empowered Him continues to work through us. We can trust that truth will ultimately prevail, even when it is misrepresented.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Beelzebul7×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Βεελζεβοὺλ7×
Key Verses
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Matthew 12:24
But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, “This man does not cast out demons except by Beelzebul, the prince of the demons.”
This verse records the core accusation that Jesus’ miracles were powered by demonic authority, framing Beelzeboul as 'the prince of the demons' to delegitimize His divine mission.
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Luke 11:18
If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul.
Here Jesus dismantles the logic of the charge by showing that Satan would not sabotage his own kingdom, proving the accusation self-defeating and false.
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Matthew 10:25
It is enough for the disciple that he be like his teacher, and the servant like his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more those of his household!
Jesus uses this title to prepare His followers for persecution, indicating that sharing in His suffering includes enduring similar false accusations as He did.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Beelzeboul mean?
Why did Jesus’ critics call Him Beelzeboul?
How does Jesus respond to this accusation?
Every Occurrence (7 verses across 3 books)
Matthew 3 verses
It is enough for the disciple that he be like his teacher, and the servant like his lord. If they have called the…
Matthew 12:24But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, “This man does not cast out demons except by Beelzebul, the prince of the…
Matthew 12:27If I by Beelzebul cast out demons, by whom do your children cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges.