The celestial body often referred to as a bright star in the east in various cultural and religious texts is Venus.

Here's why:

* Brightness: Venus is the brightest planet in our solar system, often outshining all stars in the night sky. This makes it a very noticeable and striking object.

* Appearance: Venus is often seen as a very bright "star" in the eastern sky before sunrise, earning it the nickname "Morning Star". Similarly, it can appear as a bright "star" in the western sky after sunset, earning it the nickname "Evening Star".

* Cultural Significance: Venus has held significant cultural and religious importance in various cultures throughout history. Many ancient civilizations associated it with specific deities or phenomena.

While other celestial bodies, like Sirius or even Jupiter, are bright and appear in the east, Venus consistently holds the title of the brightest "star" in the eastern sky.