The Hebrew word ʻAshtôreth, represented by H6253, refers to Ashtoreth, the Phoenician goddess. According to usage statistics, it appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The term consistently denotes a foreign deity whose worship represents a departure from the God of Israel.
In the biblical narrative, H6253 is exclusively associated with the transgressions of King Solomon and the subsequent consequences for Israel. Solomon "went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians" 1 Kings 11:5 and built a high place for her worship before Jerusalem 2 Kings 23:13. This act of worship is cited by God as a primary reason for judging Israel, stating, "they have forsaken me, and have worshipped Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians" 1 Kings 11:33. Generations later, the high place Solomon built for this "abomination of the Zidonians" was defiled by King Josiah as part of his religious reforms 2 Kings 23:13.
Several related words provide context for the idolatry associated with Ashtoreth:
- H4445 Malkâm (Malcam or Milcom, the national idol of the Ammonites): This idol is mentioned alongside Ashtoreth in all three of its occurrences, identified as the "abomination of the Ammonites" 1 Kings 11:5 and the "god of the children of Ammon" 1 Kings 11:33.
- H3645 Kᵉmôwsh (Kemosh, the god of the Moabites): Chemosh is another foreign deity whose worship is linked with that of Ashtoreth, specifically as an "abomination of the Moabites" for whom Solomon also built a high place (2 Kings 23:13, 1 Kings 11:33).
- H8251 shiqqûwts (disgusting, i.e. filthy; especially idolatrous or an idol): This word is used to describe Ashtoreth, Chemosh, and Milcom, labeling them as an "abomination" or "detestable thing" in the sight of God 2 Kings 23:13.
- H430 ʼĕlôhîym (gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used of the supreme God): This term is used to identify Ashtoreth as a "goddess" (1 Kings 11:5, 1 Kings 11:33), placing her in direct opposition to the supreme God of Israel, who is also referred to by this word.
The theological weight of H6253 is significant as a symbol of apostasy and its consequences.
- Cause of Divine Judgment: The worship of Ashtoreth is presented as a direct act of forsaking God, leading to judgment and the failure of the people to walk in God's ways 1 Kings 11:33.
- Royal Corruption: The term is inextricably linked to King Solomon's spiritual downfall, marking a pivotal moment when the wisest king of Israel turned to foreign gods 1 Kings 11:5.
- Idolatrous Abomination: Ashtoreth is not merely presented as a foreign god, but specifically as an "abomination" H8251, a detestable idol whose worship defiled the land and required a righteous king to purge 2 Kings 23:13.
In summary, H6253 is a specific and powerful term representing foreign idolatry within the biblical narrative. Though appearing only three times, its connection to King Solomon's sin establishes it as a key symbol of unfaithfulness. The scriptural account presents the worship of Ashtoreth as a direct violation of Israel's covenant with God, an "abomination" that ultimately brings about judgment and necessitates purification.
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