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Bible Encyclopedias
Moon
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
The actual worship of the moon and the idolatry consequent thereon seems to have touched the Hebrews, though this is disputed by some. It would seem difficult to explain 2 Kings 21:3 upon any other supposition, and in 2 Kings 23:4 , 2 Kings 23:5 we have a clear statement that Josiah put down the worship of the moon among the people and silenced the priests of this form of worship.
Certain forms of the adoration of the moon, or superstitious fear of baneful influences as coming from the moon, still abound in some sections of the world. In fact in nearly all sections modified forms of old superstitions still hold sway and yield but slowly to scientific knowledge.
The eclipses of the moon were naturally given a religious significance inasmuch as the Hebrew knowledge of them did not rise much above awe and wonder (Isaiah 18:1-7 :10; Joel 2:31; Matthew 24:29; Mark 13:24 ). Other passages causing interference with the constancy of the moon to foreshadow great events can be found in Jeremiah 13:16; Ezekiel 32:7 , Ezekiel 32:8; Revelation 8:12 . An interesting passage and most difficult of interpretation is Revelation 12:1 . It is frequently interpreted as a revelation in symbolism of the glory of the church clothed with the light and radiating the truth of God. See also ASTRONOMY; ASTROLOGY .
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Orr, James, M.A., D.D. General Editor. Entry for 'Moon'. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. https://www.studylight.org/​encyclopedias/​eng/​isb/​m/moon.html. 1915.