ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Baal

Baal is a name given to a group of ancient gods who were worshipped by various peoples throughout history. These gods were believed to have control over different aspects of the world, like the sky, the sun, the moon, and the weather. People believed that by praying and making sacrifices to these gods, they could make their crops grow, bring rain for their animals, and protect them from harm.

Some people believed that Baal was specifically the god of thunder and storms, while others believed he was a more general god of fertility and life. In some cultures, Baal was considered the highest god in the pantheon, while in others he was just one among many.

In the Bible, Baal is often referred to as a false god, because believers in the God of Israel were supposed to worship only him. The prophets in the Bible warned against worshipping Baal, and there are several stories of people turning away from Baal and turning towards the God of Israel.

Today, most people no longer worship Baal as a god, although the name is sometimes used in reference to ancient history or mythology.