Deuteronomy 4:16 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 4:16 mean?

Deuteronomy 4:16 warns the Israelites not to corrupt themselves by making a carved image that looks like any human being, whether male or female. The verse is cautioning against creating physical representations for worship, which would lead them away from the worship of God alone.

In this verse, Moses is speaking to the people of Israel as they prepare to enter the land of Canaan. He reminds them of the importance of staying faithful to God and not adopting the idol-making practices of surrounding nations. The warning is specific: do not make any image or likeness that imitates a human figure, because doing so would distort their relationship with God and violate His commands.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 4:16

• "corrupt" (שָׁחַת, shachath): This word means to ruin, spoil, or destroy. Here, it suggests that making images is not just a mistake, but something that damages the people’s relationship with God.
• "graven image" (פֶּסֶל, pesel): This refers to a carved or sculpted idol. The emphasis is on something made by human hands for the purpose of worship.
• "similitude" (תְּמוּנָה, temunah): This word means a likeness or form. It highlights the idea of copying or representing something visually.
• "figure" (סָמֶל, semel): This term points to a specific shape or model, reinforcing the warning against making any kind of physical representation.
• "likeness" (תַּבְנִית, tavnit): This means a pattern or model, suggesting any visual imitation, not just statues.
• "male" (זָכָר, zakhar) and "female" (נְקֵבָה, neqevah): These words make it clear that the prohibition covers images of both men and women, not just one or the other.

Why Deuteronomy 4:16 matters

• Deuteronomy 4:16 clarifies that the commandment against idols is not limited to images of animals or gods, but also includes any human likeness, male or female.
• The verse underscores the seriousness of idolatry by using strong language about corruption, showing that making images is seen as a fundamental betrayal of trust in God.
• This warning fits into Moses’ broader message in Deuteronomy 4, where he urges Israel to remember their unique relationship with God, who revealed Himself without any visible form.