King James Version
Exodus 20:23 in the King James Version says “Ye shall not make with me gods of silver, neither shall ye make unto you gods of gold.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Ye shall not make with me gods of silver, neither shall ye make unto you gods of gold.”
Exodus 20:23 · KJV
And the people stood afar off, and Moses drew near unto the thick darkness where God was.
And the LORD said unto Moses, Thus thou shalt say unto the children of Israel, Ye have seen that I have talked with you from heaven.
Ye shall not make with me gods of silver, neither shall ye make unto you gods of gold.
An altar of earth thou shalt make unto me, and shalt sacrifice thereon thy burnt offerings, and thy peace offerings, thy sheep, and thine oxen: in all places where I record my name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee.
And if thou wilt make me an altar of stone, thou shalt not build it of hewn stone: for if thou lift up thy tool upon it, thou hast polluted it. build: Heb. build them with hewing
KJV Study — Public Domain
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“Ye shall not make”
H6213to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
“unto you gods”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
“unto you gods”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
“of gold”
H2091gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“Ye shall not make”
H6213to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Exodus 20:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Exodus 20:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge