Topical Encyclopedia Aven, often referred to as "The Plain of the Sun," is a term found in the Bible that holds significant historical and theological implications. The name "Aven" is derived from the Hebrew word "אָוֶן" (Aven), which can mean "vanity," "iniquity," or "trouble." In the biblical context, Aven is associated with idolatry and false worship, often serving as a symbol of spiritual corruption and moral decay.Biblical References: 1. Hosea 10:8 · "The high places of Aven, the sin of Israel, will be destroyed; thorns and thistles will grow up and cover their altars. Then they will say to the mountains, 'Cover us!' and to the hills, 'Fall on us!'" . In this passage, Aven is used to denote the high places of idolatrous worship in Israel, emphasizing the nation's departure from true worship of Yahweh. 2. Amos 1:5 · "I will break the gate bar of Damascus; I will cut off the ruler of the Valley of Aven and the scepter of Beth-eden. The people of Aram will go into exile to Kir,” says the LORD." . Here, Aven is identified with a region in Syria, possibly the Beqaa Valley, known for its fertility and strategic importance. The prophecy against Aven underscores God's judgment against nations that oppose His will. Historical and Theological Significance: Aven's association with idolatry is a recurring theme in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. The "Plain of the Sun" likely refers to a location where sun worship, a common pagan practice, was prevalent. This idolatrous worship was in direct opposition to the monotheistic worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. The prophets frequently condemned such practices, warning of divine judgment and calling the people to repentance. Theologically, Aven serves as a cautionary symbol for the dangers of turning away from God. It represents the futility and emptiness of worshiping false gods, which ultimately leads to spiritual and moral ruin. The destruction of Aven's high places, as prophesied by Hosea, illustrates the inevitable downfall of those who forsake the covenant relationship with God. Conclusion: Aven, "The Plain of the Sun," is a powerful biblical symbol of idolatry and divine judgment. Its mention in the prophetic books serves as a reminder of the consequences of abandoning true worship and the importance of remaining faithful to God. The lessons drawn from Aven's depiction in Scripture continue to resonate, urging believers to reject idolatry in all its forms and to uphold the worship of the one true God. Nave's Topical Index Amos 1:5I will break also the bar of Damascus, and cut off the inhabitant from the plain of Aven, and him that holds the scepter from the house of Eden: and the people of Syria shall go into captivity to Kir, said the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Library The Sun Stayed "The Sun of Righteousness" The Judges Said: we Know that a Light Shines through the Whole ... The Great Question and the Plain Answer The Swift Destroyer The King in his Beauty The Sunlit Church The Past and the Future Joseph the Dreamer. Of the Second Coming of Christ Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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