Topical Bible: Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Remphan

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Remphan is a name associated with idolatry in the biblical narrative, specifically mentioned in the context of Israel's apostasy. The reference to Remphan appears in the New Testament, in the book of Acts, where Stephen, the first Christian martyr, addresses the Sanhedrin. In his speech, Stephen recounts the history of Israel's rebellion against God, citing their idolatrous practices during their time in the wilderness.

The mention of Remphan is found in 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." This passage is a quotation from the Old Testament, specifically Amos 5:26, where the prophet Amos condemns the Israelites for carrying the tabernacle of Moloch and the star of their god.

The name "Remphan" is believed to be a variant of "Rephan" or "Kiyyun," which is associated with the worship of celestial bodies, particularly the planet Saturn. The Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, uses the term "Rephan," which is reflected in Stephen's speech in Acts. This suggests that the Israelites, during their wilderness wanderings, adopted the worship of foreign deities, including astral deities, which was strictly forbidden by the Mosaic Law.

The worship of Remphan, as part of Israel's idolatrous practices, highlights the recurring theme of syncretism in the Old Testament, where the Israelites often blended the worship of Yahweh with that of surrounding pagan deities. This syncretism was a direct violation of the first and second commandments, which prohibited the worship of other gods and the making of graven images (Exodus 20:3-4).

The idolatry associated with Remphan serves as a stark reminder of the spiritual infidelity that plagued Israel throughout its history. Despite the clear commands of God and the covenant relationship established at Sinai, the Israelites frequently turned to the gods of the nations around them, leading to divine judgment and exile.

In the broader biblical narrative, the mention of Remphan underscores the persistent struggle against idolatry faced by God's people. It serves as a warning against the allure of false worship and the importance of maintaining exclusive devotion to the one true God. The New Testament reiterates this call to faithfulness, urging believers to flee from idolatry and to worship God in spirit and truth (1 Corinthians 10:14, John 4:24).

Torrey's Topical Textbook

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.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Acts vii. 35
... and little (showing) that not even these are to be mentioned. ... when the Temple stood,
ye worshipped idols: when it ... had been much addicted to the idolatry of the ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xvii acts vii 35.htm

The Sixth vision "On Earth"
... 6; xvi.2; xx.7, 8). Doubtless the idols and idolatry ... head, and shown the source and
origin of all idolatry. ... The woman and the Beast are first mentioned in brief ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the sixth vision on earth.htm