### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ástron**, represented by `{{G798}}`, is a term used for a **star**, either natural or artificial. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. While it can refer to a literal celestial body, it also serves as a powerful metaphor for multitude and as a symbol of idolatry.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G798}}` appears in several distinct contexts. It is used to describe celestial bodies as signs of future distress [[Luke 21:25]] and as natural sources of light whose absence causes despair [[Acts 27:20]]. Metaphorically, the **stars** of the sky are used to represent an innumerable multitude, fulfilling a promise made to one man [[Hebrews 11:12]]. In a contrasting use, the term refers to an artificial object of false worship, specifically "the **star** of your god Remphan" [[Acts 7:43]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the celestial realm:
* `{{G2246}}` **hḗlios** (the sun): This term for the sun often appears alongside **ástron**. It is listed as one of the celestial bodies that will show signs of distress [[Luke 21:25]] and its absence, along with the stars, leads to hopelessness [[Acts 27:20]].
* `{{G4582}}` **selḗnē** (the moon): As the word for the moon, it frequently completes the trio of celestial signs. It is mentioned with the sun and stars in the context of end-times signs upon the earth [[Luke 21:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G798}}` is multifaceted, representing both divine power and human failing.
* **Prophetic Signs:** The **stars**, along with the sun and moon, serve as instruments for divine signs, particularly in relation to future events and distress among nations [[Luke 21:25]].
* **Symbol of Divine Promise:** The word is used to illustrate the vastness of God's faithfulness, with the number of the **stars** symbolizing an innumerable posterity springing from one who was as good as dead [[Hebrews 11:12]].
* **Object of Idolatry:** The term is explicitly used to name an object of false worship, highlighting the sin of venerating created objects or their representations rather than the Creator [[Acts 7:43]].
* **Element of Creation:** The presence of the **stars** is part of the natural order. Their absence during a storm underscores a loss of hope and guidance, implying their role in sustaining the natural world [[Acts 27:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G798}}` carries significant weight beyond its simple definition. It functions as a literal celestial object, a metaphor for a countless multitude born from promise, a vehicle for prophetic signs, and a symbol of idolatrous worship. Its varied uses demonstrate how a single element of creation can be understood in scripture as a testament to God's power, His promises, and as a point of spiritual failure for humanity.
TRV