### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV