Chiun is a deity mentioned in the Bible, associated with idolatrous worship practices condemned by the prophets. The name Chiun appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Amos, and is often linked with the worship of celestial bodies, a practice prevalent among ancient Near Eastern cultures, including the Phoenicians.

Biblical References:

1. Amos 5:26 : "You have lifted up the shrine of your king and the pedestal of your idols, the star of your god, which you made for yourselves." In this passage, the prophet Amos rebukes the Israelites for their idolatry, referencing the worship of foreign gods. The term "Chiun" is traditionally understood to refer to a deity associated with a star, possibly Saturn, which was venerated by some ancient cultures.

2. Acts 7:43 : "You took along the tabernacle of Moloch and the star of your god Rephan, the idols you made to worship. Therefore, I will send you into exile beyond Babylon." In the New Testament, Stephen, in his speech before the Sanhedrin, cites this idolatry as part of Israel's history of rebellion against God. The name "Rephan" is used here, which is considered a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew "Chiun."

Historical and Cultural Context:

Chiun, or Rephan, is often associated with the worship of celestial bodies, a common practice among the Phoenicians and other ancient Near Eastern peoples. The Phoenicians, known for their seafaring and trade, had a pantheon that included gods associated with the stars and planets. The worship of such deities often involved constructing idols and altars, which were strictly forbidden in the Hebrew Scriptures.

The mention of Chiun in Amos and its parallel in Acts highlights the persistent issue of idolatry among the Israelites, despite the clear commandments against it. The prophets consistently warned against adopting the religious practices of surrounding nations, emphasizing the exclusive worship of Yahweh.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the references to Chiun underscore the biblical theme of fidelity to God and the dangers of syncretism. The Israelites' temptation to incorporate foreign deities into their worship reflects a broader struggle to maintain covenantal faithfulness. The prophets' denunciations serve as a call to repentance and a return to the worship of the one true God.

The use of Chiun and Rephan in the biblical narrative also illustrates the continuity of God's message through both the Old and New Testaments. The early Christian community, as seen in Stephen's speech, understood the history of Israel's idolatry as a cautionary tale, reinforcing the call to exclusive devotion to God.

Conclusion:

The mention of Chiun in the Bible serves as a reminder of the enduring challenge of idolatry and the call to worship God alone. Through the prophetic warnings and the teachings of the early church, the biblical narrative consistently emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and the rejection of false gods.Amos 5:26
But you have borne the tabernacle of your Moloch and Chiun your images, the star of your god, which you made to yourselves.
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Acts 7:43
Yes, you took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which you made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.
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