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).
Transliteration:kôwkâb
Pronunciation:ko-kawb'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H3556 (כּוֹכָב, kôwkâb) primarily denotes a "star." Its etymological roots are debated but likely point to two key characteristics: either from a root suggesting "rolling" or "roundness" (cf. כַּבּוֹן, kabbon), indicating the celestial body's shape or movement, or from a root meaning "blazing" or "shining" (cf. כָּוָה, kavah), highlighting its luminous quality. Beyond its literal meaning, kôwkâb extends figuratively to refer to a "prince" or "leader," emphasizing prominence, guidance, or authority. The definition also encompasses the concept of a "star-gazer," referring to those who observe stars, often in a divinatory or astrological context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H3556 appears frequently throughout the Old Testament, predominantly in its literal sense. In the creation account, stars are established as divine creations, given to provide light and serve as signs and markers of time ([[Genesis 1:16]]). This foundational passage underscores their purpose within God's ordered cosmos. The vast number of stars often serves as a powerful metaphor for the countless descendants promised to Abraham, a central theme in the Abrahamic covenant ([[Genesis 15:5]], [[Genesis 22:17]], [[Deuteronomy 1:10]]).
In prophetic literature, stars are often depicted as subject to divine control, their darkening or falling symbolizing cosmic judgment and the Lord's awesome power ([[Isaiah 13:10]], [[Ezekiel 32:7]], [[Joel 2:10]]). Wisdom literature, such as Job and Psalms, celebrates God's intimate knowledge and sovereignty over the stars, naming and numbering them all ([[Job 9:7-9]], [[Psalm 147:4]]).
The figurative use of kôwkâb as a "prince" or "leader" is most profoundly seen in Balaam's prophecy: "A star shall come out of Jacob; a scepter shall rise out of Israel" ([[Numbers 24:17]]). This is a pivotal messianic prophecy, pointing to the emergence of a powerful king or deliverer from the lineage of Jacob. This prophecy finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ, as later attested by the "star of Bethlehem" in the New Testament. The concept of "star-gazer" in the definition relates to the forbidden practice of divination and astrology, which Israel was strictly commanded to avoid, as it represented reliance on created things rather than the Creator ([[Deuteronomy 4:19]], [[Isaiah 47:13]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
H3556 is intrinsically linked to other terms related to light and celestial bodies. These include `{{H215}}` (אוֹר, 'or), meaning "light," and `{{H3974}}` (מָאוֹר, ma'or), referring to a "luminary" or "light-bearer," encompassing the sun, moon, and stars. The "host of heaven," often represented by `{{H6635}}` (צָבָא, tsaba'), frequently refers to the celestial bodies, sometimes personified. The sun (`{{H8121}}`, שֶׁמֶשׁ, shemesh) and moon (`{{H3394}}`, יָרֵחַ, yareach) are often mentioned alongside stars as part of the cosmic order. The figurative use of kôwkâb for a leader connects it to concepts of kingship, prophecy, and divine guidance. Conversely, the "star-gazer" aspect links to the widespread ancient Near Eastern practices of divination and idolatry, particularly the worship of celestial bodies, which was vehemently condemned in Israelite theology.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H3556 is multifaceted and profound. Firstly, the stars serve as a constant testament to God's absolute sovereignty and creative power. He not only brought them into existence but also sustains them and knows them intimately ([[Psalm 147:4]]), setting Him apart from the gods of surrounding nations who were often identified *with* celestial bodies. This divine control over the cosmos underscores His omnipotence and omniscience.
Secondly, the innumerable stars become a tangible symbol of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly the promise of countless descendants to Abraham ([[Genesis 15:5]]). This visible sign links the physical creation to the spiritual reality of God's unwavering commitment to His people.
Thirdly, the "star out of Jacob" ([[Numbers 24:17]]) stands as a beacon of messianic hope, prefiguring the coming of a powerful deliverer and king. This prophecy connects the celestial realm to the divine plan of salvation, culminating in the reign of the Messiah.
Finally, the biblical emphasis on God's sole authority over the stars serves as a strong warning against idolatry. The worship of the "host of heaven" was a persistent temptation for Israel and is consistently condemned as an abomination, reinforcing the exclusive worship of Yahweh ([[Deuteronomy 4:19]], [[2 Kings 23:5]]). The very existence of stars, therefore, points to the Creator, not to themselves as objects of veneration or sources of hidden knowledge.
### Summary
H3556 (כּוֹכָב, kôwkâb) primarily designates a "star," derived from notions of roundness or luminosity. Its semantic range extends to encompass a "prince" or "leader" and, by association, a "star-gazer" engaged in forbidden divinatory practices. Biblically, kôwkâb functions literally as a created luminary ([[Genesis 1:16]]) and metaphorically as a symbol for God's covenant promises of innumerable descendants ([[Genesis 15:5]]). Most significantly, it serves as a powerful messianic emblem, pointing to the coming of a king from Israel ([[Numbers 24:17]]). Theologically, kôwkâb consistently highlights God's absolute sovereignty over creation, His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant, and the hope of the Messiah, while simultaneously serving as a stark reminder against the perils of idolatry and reliance on created things.
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