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8.10.3 Naboth was found guilty of cursing god and king. He was
executed and his land forfeited to the king (1 Kings 21:10–16).
Apparently, his sons were also executed (2 Kings 9:26).8.11 Apostasy (worshipping other gods) is strictly forbidden, an
essential element of Israel’s covenant with God and forbidden by the
First Commandment. Deuteronomy provides for human sanctions:
anyone known to worship other gods or the heavenly host will stand
trial and if convicted, is stoned to death (Deut. 17:1–5). Prophets or
diviners who advocate it are to be put to death; one’s own family
member is to be stoned (Deut. 13:2–12).8.11.1 A town that commits apostasy is to be put to the sword.
The cattle are to be killed; all the town and spoil are to be burned
with nothing spared and the town is not to be rebuilt (Deut. 13:13–19).8.11.2 One cannot be a qede“aor a qade“(Deut. 23:18). These are
often translated as “cult prostitutes,” but there is no evidence of cult
prostitution in Israel. They are a kind of priest and priestess associ-
ated with Canaanite worship.^808.12 Idolatry was also strictly forbidden, both molten images (Lev.
19:4) and worked stone worship items ("eben maskit) (Lev. 26:1). The
making of the Golden Calf was the great sin of Israel at Sinai, even
though the calf and the festival were for YHWH (Exod. 32). An
image is an abomination (to'ebah), and the maker is subject to the
communal curse (Deut. 27:15). Deuteronomy also prohibits planting
an asherah or any other tree next to the altar of God or setting up
stone pillars (maßßebah: Deut. 16:21).8.13 Rebellion against Authority
8.13.1 Leaders of the people are to be respected and may not be
cursed (Exod. 22:27); one must rise before elders (Lev. 19:32). Refusal
to accept the decision of the priest or judge at the central shrine is
zadon; the penalty is death (Deut. 17:9–13).(^80) Westenholz, “Tamar, qîdè“à, qadi“tu...”
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