Exploring Remphan and Acts 7:43

The term 'Remphan' often appears in biblical texts, particularly in passages related to the prophets and early Christian narratives. This article aims to delve into the historical and theological implications of Remphan and its mention in the New Testament book of Acts, specifically in Acts 7:43. It will shed light on the context and the correlation with other biblical references and translations.

Introduction to Remphan

Remphan is a name that often causes confusion in biblical studies, primarily because its transliteration can vary across different translations and versions of the Bible. It is most commonly linked to a pagan deity worshipped by ancient Israelites. However, its exact nature and origin are often debated among scholars and theologians.

The Hebrew and Greek Translations

One of the key points of confusion arises from the original Hebrew text and its translation into Greek. In the Hebrew Bible, the name referenced in Amos 5:26 is Kiyun, which translates to 'god of the constellation' or 'star god.' The Septuagint, an ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, and the Vulgate, a Latin translation, both render this name as Remphan.

[Amo 5:26 NASB20] [26] Kiyun

[Amo 5:26 LXX] [26] κα νελβετε τν σκηνν το Mολοχ κα τ στρον το θεο μν Ραιφαν

[Amo 5:26 VUL] [26] et portastis tabernaculum Moloch vestro et imaginem idolorum vestrorum sidus dei vestri quae fecistis vobis

Despite the variations in transliteration, the context remains similar across these texts, indicating the worship of a pagan deity associated with a star or constellation.

Acts 7:43: Context and Interpretation

The mention of Remphan in Acts 7:43 is part of a speech given by Stephen, one of the early apostles, to the members of the Sanhedrin. Stephen's speech encapsulates a critical moment in the history of the Israelites, addressing their historical deviation from the worship of Jehovah.

[Act 7:43 NIV] [43] You have taken up the tabernacle of Moloch and the star of your god Rephan the idols you made to worship them. Therefore I will send you into exile beyond Babylon.

Here, Stephen refers to the Israelites adopting the worship of Moloch and Rephan, gods associated with a star. This passage emphasizes the apostasy of the Israelites and foretells the consequences of their actions.

Further Explication

The term 'Rephan' is often equated with 'Rosh' or the 'Planet Saturn' in various interpretations. Stephen’s speech in Acts 7:43 sums up the history of the Israelites and their betrayal of their true God for the worship of false deities. This is further supported by the parallel quote in the Bible Encyclopedia INSIGHT ON THE SCRIPTURES, which clarifies the connection between Molech worship, calf worship, and astrology.

[ INSIGHT ON THE SCRIPTURES, p. 207] Further showing the interconnection of Molech worship calf worship and astrology is Stephen’s account of the rebellion of the Israelites in the wilderness. When they cried out to Aaron, 'Make gods for us to go ahead of us' Jehovah “handed them over to render sacred service to the army of heaven just as it is written in the book of the prophets 'It was not to me that you offered victims and sacrifices . . . But it was the tent of Moloch and the star of the god Rephan that you took up.'”—Ac 7:40-43

This highlights the significance of Acts 7:43 in the overall narrative of biblical history and the consequences of apostasy.

Conclusion

The name Remphan is a reflection of the pagan practices adopted by the ancient Israelites. Its mention in Acts 7:43 serves as a stark reminder of the reverence given to false deities and the consequences of such practices. Understanding the historical and theological nuances around Remphan and its contextual usage in biblical texts provides insight into the complexities of faith and worship during ancient times.