### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Kîyûwn**, represented by `{{H3594}}`, properly means a statue or idol. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, where it is used by euphemism for a specific heathen deity named Chiun. Its singular appearance highlights a specific moment of profound idolatry.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H3594}}` is found in the prophet Amos's condemnation of Israel's faithlessness. In [[Amos 5:26]], the Lord declares, "But ye have borne the tabernacle of your Moloch and **Chiun** your images, the star of your god, which ye made to yourselves." Here, **Kîyûwn** is named as an idol carried alongside the "tabernacle of your Moloch," signifying a deliberate act of apostasy where the Israelites created and transported false gods.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H3594}}` connects it to several other words related to idolatry and false worship:
* `{{H5522}}` **çikkûwth** (tabernacle): Defined as an "idolatrous booth," this word describes the portable shrine carried for the idol Moloch, which was borne alongside Chiun [[Amos 5:26]].
* `{{H6754}}` **tselem** (image): This word for a representative figure or idol is used to describe Chiun itself, clarifying that it was a physical object of worship made by the Israelites [[Amos 5:26]].
* `{{H3556}}` **kôwkâb** (star): The idols are explicitly linked to "the star of your god," indicating that the worship of Chiun was part of a forbidden astral cult [[Amos 5:26]].
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (god): While often referring to the supreme God, in this context it designates the false "god" associated with the star image that the Israelites worshipped [[Amos 5:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3594}}` is concentrated in its role as an emblem of spiritual betrayal.
* **Concrete Idolatry:** Chiun is not an abstract concept but a tangible statue or idol that Israel "made" `{{H6213}}` and "borne" `{{H5375}}`, representing a willful violation of the covenant.
* **Syncretic Worship:** The mention of Chiun alongside Moloch demonstrates Israel's practice of syncretism, combining the worship of multiple pagan deities. This act is presented as a primary reason for God's impending judgment.
* **Rejection of God's Sovereignty:** By creating and carrying their own gods, the Israelites rejected the true God, who made the heavens and the stars [[Jeremiah 31:35]] and explicitly forbade their worship [[Deuteronomy 4:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3594}}` **Kîyûwn** serves as a stark and specific example of idolatry within the Old Testament. Though mentioned only once, its appearance in [[Amos 5:26]] provides a powerful indictment of Israel's unfaithfulness. It illustrates how the people turned from the Creator to worship handmade images and celestial bodies, encapsulating the very essence of the apostasy that the prophets were sent to condemn.
TRV