Chiun

כַּיּוּן/KAHY-un/

“(Kiyun), related to Assyrian Kaiawanu (Saturn).”

Summary

A pagan deity worshipped by Israel in the wilderness, identified with the planet Saturn and also called Remphan in the Septuagint and New Testament.

☩Identification

Chiun appears only in Amos's prophecy condemning Israel's idolatry in the wilderness. The word relates to the Assyrian Kaiawanu, referring to the planet Saturn. The Septuagint renders it 'Remphan,' which Stephen quotes in his speech before the Sanhedrin.

Key verses:Amos 5:26Acts 7:43

☩Meaning

The Hebrew word may derive from a root meaning 'to stand upright,' suggesting a statue or pedestal. Israel carried images of their false gods during their wilderness wanderings, demonstrating that their idolatry preceded entrance into Canaan.

Key verses:Amos 5:26

Related Verses2 mentions

Amos· 1 verse

5:26

Acts· 1 verse

7:43

References

1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Chiun," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
2.James Orr (ed.), "Chiun," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. I (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
3.George Morrish, "Chiun," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).