Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "planets" as understood in modern astronomy does not explicitly appear. However, celestial bodies, including stars and heavenly hosts, are frequently mentioned throughout the Scriptures. The ancient Hebrews, like many ancient cultures, observed the night sky and recognized the movement of celestial bodies, though their understanding was not in the scientific terms we use today.Creation and Order: The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God establishes the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:14-19 describes the creation of the "lights in the expanse of the sky" to separate day from night and to serve as signs for seasons, days, and years. While this passage primarily refers to the sun and moon, it also encompasses the stars and other celestial bodies, which would include planets as part of the broader heavenly creation. Heavenly Bodies as Signs: In biblical times, celestial bodies were often seen as signs from God. For instance, in Genesis 1:14, God declares, "Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years." This indicates that the movements and positions of these bodies were significant to the people of the Bible, serving as markers of time and divine order. Worship of Celestial Bodies: The Bible explicitly warns against the worship of celestial bodies, which was a common practice among neighboring pagan cultures. Deuteronomy 4:19 cautions, "And when you look to the heavens and see the sun and moon and stars—all the host of heaven—do not be enticed to bow down and worship what the LORD your God has apportioned to all the nations under heaven." This prohibition underscores the belief that while celestial bodies are part of God's creation, they are not to be revered as deities. Astrology and Divination: The practice of astrology, which involves interpreting the movements of celestial bodies to predict earthly events, is also addressed in the Bible. Isaiah 47:13-14 criticizes the reliance on astrologers and stargazers, stating, "You are wearied by your many counselors; let them stand up and save you—those who divide the heavens, who gaze at the stars, who predict by the new moons what will happen to you. Surely they are like stubble; the fire will burn them up." This passage reflects the biblical view that such practices are futile and contrary to reliance on God. God's Sovereignty Over the Heavens: Throughout Scripture, the heavens are depicted as a testament to God's majesty and sovereignty. Psalm 19:1 proclaims, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." This verse highlights the belief that the celestial bodies, including planets, are part of God's creation and serve to glorify Him. Symbolism and Prophecy: In prophetic literature, celestial imagery is often used symbolically. For example, in the apocalyptic visions of Revelation, heavenly bodies are used to convey divine messages and judgments. Revelation 6:13 describes a cosmic disturbance: "and the stars of the sky fell to the earth, like unripe figs dropping from a tree shaken by a great wind." Such imagery underscores the power and authority of God over all creation, including the celestial realm. In summary, while the Bible does not specifically mention planets as distinct entities, it provides a framework for understanding the heavens as part of God's orderly and purposeful creation. The celestial bodies serve as signs, are not to be worshiped, and ultimately declare the glory of the Creator. ATS Bible Dictionary Planets2 Kings 23:5. The Hebrew word means inns or lodgings, and is used with reference to the sun, denoting the twelve constellations of the zodiac, the houses of the sun in its annual apparent course round the heavens. These constellations are here spoken of as objects of idolatrous worship in Judah. Compare Gen 37...9. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia PLANETSplan'-ets (mazzaloth). Library That the Supreme Cause and Author of all Things must of Necessity ... Chronology of the Life of Christ. Concerning the Heaven. Psalm. The Mystic Meaning of the Tabernacle and Its Furniture. Concerning Light, Fire, the Luminaries, Sun, Moon and Stars. The Imperfection of Human Knowledge What is Man? There Is, Then, in the First Year, the New Moon of the First Month ... The Lamb of God, the Great Atonement Thesaurus Planets (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia PLANETS. plan'-ets (mazzaloth). See ASTROLOGY, sec. II, 3. Multi-Version Concordance Planets (1 Occurrence). ... /p/planets.htm - 7k Star (16 Occurrences) Magi (4 Occurrences) Astrology Aspect (10 Occurrences) Plank (5 Occurrences) Jupiter (3 Occurrences) Imagery (5 Occurrences) Idolatrous (4 Occurrences) Inferior (14 Occurrences) Resources Why did God create such a vast universe and other planets if there is only life on Earth? | GotQuestions.orgAre there such things as aliens or UFOs? | GotQuestions.org How should a Christian view the idea of Mars colonization? | GotQuestions.org Planets: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Planets (1 Occurrence)2 Kings 23:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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