King James Version

What Does Deuteronomy 4:16 Mean?

“Lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female,”

Context

And the LORD commanded me at that time to teach you statutes and judgments, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go over to possess it.

Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves; for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the LORD spake unto you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire:

Lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female,

The likeness of any beast that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged fowl that flieth in the air,

The likeness of any thing that creepeth on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the waters beneath the earth:

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(16) **Lest ye corrupt . . . and make.**—The connection between idolatry and corruption is twofold. First, it changes “the glory of the *incorruptible God*” into an image of His corruptible creatures. Secondly, it always ends in corrupting the idolater. Man was made to have dominion over the works of God’s hands. He cannot *worship *anything in creation, which he was not intended to *rule. *He can only fulfil his destiny when he strives after the Divine likeness, rising to that which is above him, instead of stooping to that which is below. (17,18) **Likeness of any beast . . . fowl . . .**—There may be an allusion to the animal idolatry of Egypt here.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Deuteronomy 4:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.