probably from the same as כַּבּוֹן (in the sense of rolling) or כָּוָה (in the sense of blazing); a star (as round or as shining); figuratively, a prince; star(-gazer).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kôwkâb**, represented by `{{H3556}}`, is the primary term for a **star**. It appears 37 times across 37 unique verses in the Bible. Based on its etymology suggesting blazing or shining, the word is used both for a literal celestial body and figuratively for a **prince** or in the context of a **star-gazer**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3556}}` is used in several significant contexts. As part of the creation account, God made the **stars** to rule the night [[Genesis 1:16]]. A prominent theme is its use to illustrate the immensity of God's covenant promise to Abraham, that his descendants would be as numerous as the **stars** in the heaven ([[Genesis 15:5]], [[Genesis 22:17]]). The term is also used prophetically, most notably in the declaration that a **Star** shall come out of Jacob, signifying a future ruler [[Numbers 24:17]]. It also appears in warnings against idolatry, cautioning Israel not to worship the sun, moon, and **stars** [[Deuteronomy 4:19]], and as a sign of judgment when the **stars** are darkened or withdraw their shining [[Joel 2:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the nature and context of stars:
* `{{H216}}` **'ôwr** (light): This word describes the illumination that comes from celestial bodies. The stars are appointed to provide **light** by night [[Jeremiah 31:35]] and are collectively called "stars of **light**" [[Psalms 148:3]].
* `{{H8064}}` **shâmayim** (heaven): This term denotes the sky or firmament where the stars are placed. The phrase "stars of **heaven**" appears repeatedly, linking the celestial bodies to their domain [[Genesis 22:17]].
* `{{H5051}}` **nôgahh** (brilliancy, shining): This word refers to the brightness of the stars. In prophetic passages, it is stated that the stars will withdraw their **shining** as a sign of judgment [[Joel 3:15]].
* `{{H2374}}` **chôzeh** (seer, star-gazer): In a warning against pagan practices, this term is combined with `{{H3556}}` to describe **stargazers**, those who illicitly seek guidance from the heavens [[Isaiah 47:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3556}}` is significant, highlighting God's power and promises.
* **Covenant Promise and Posterity:** The most frequent theological use of `{{H3556}}` is as a symbol of God's covenant to multiply the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The inability to count the **stars** serves as a physical illustration of the immeasurable scope of God's blessing and faithfulness ([[Genesis 15:5]], [[Genesis 22:17]]).
* **Witness to Divine Sovereignty:** The existence and order of the **stars** testify to God's creative power and sovereign rule over the heavens `{{H8064}}`. He is the one who made the **stars** [[Genesis 1:16]], commands them [[Job 9:7]], and calls them by name [[Psalms 147:4]], establishing them as creations to be ruled, not objects of worship [[Deuteronomy 4:19]].
* **Metaphor for Rulers and the Righteous:** Figuratively, **stars** represent prominent figures and spiritual realities. The term is used prophetically to describe a ruler from Jacob [[Numbers 24:17]], an arrogant king who seeks to ascend above the "stars of God" [[Isaiah 14:13]], and the wise who will shine eternally like **stars** [[Daniel 12:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3556}}` is far more than a simple astronomical term. It functions as a central symbol in scripture, representing the vastness of God's covenant promises to His people and serving as a constant reminder of His creative majesty and sovereign control over the universe. From a literal light in the night sky to a metaphor for messianic rulers and the eternal state of the righteous, **kôwkâb** illustrates how the natural world is used to convey profound spiritual truths.
TRV