King James Version

What Does Leviticus 19:4 Mean?

Leviticus 19:4 in the King James Version says “Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the LORD your God.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the LORD your God.”

Leviticus 19:4 · KJV

Context

2

Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy.

3

Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep my sabbaths: I am the LORD your God.

4

Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the LORD your God.

5

And if ye offer a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD, ye shall offer it at your own will.

6

It shall be eaten the same day ye offer it, and on the morrow: and if ought remain until the third day, it shall be burnt in the fire.

Read Leviticus 19 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the LORD your God.

This verse falls within the section on Various Laws of Holiness. Wide-ranging ethical and ceremonial laws, including the command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (19:18).


Hebrews 9-10 explains how Christ's once-for-all sacrifice supersedes the repeated Levitical offerings, providing permanent cleansing from sin.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Wide-ranging ethical and ceremonial laws, including the command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (19:18). Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. Ancient sacrificial texts from cultures surrounding Israel demonstrate the widespread practice of animal sacrifice, but Israel's system uniquely emphasized moral atonement over magical efficacy.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?
  2. How can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?
  3. How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 12 words
אַל1 of 12
H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

תִּפְנוּ֙2 of 12

“Turn”

H6437

to turn; by implication, to face, i.e., appear, look, etc

אֶל3 of 12
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

הָ֣אֱלִילִ֔ם4 of 12

“ye not unto idols”

H457

good for nothing, by analogy vain or vanity; specifically an idol

אֱלֹֽהֵיכֶֽם׃5 of 12

“gods”

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

מַסֵּכָ֔ה6 of 12

“to yourselves molten”

H4541

properly, a pouring over, i.e., fusion of metal (especially a cast image); by implication, a libation, i.e., league; concretely a coverlet (as if pour

לֹ֥א7 of 12
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תַֽעֲשׂ֖וּ8 of 12

“nor make”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

לָכֶ֑ם9 of 12
H0
אֲנִ֖י10 of 12
H589

i

יְהוָ֥ה11 of 12

“I am the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֱלֹֽהֵיכֶֽם׃12 of 12

“gods”

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

Study Guide

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Leviticus 19:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Leviticus 19:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 26:1Psalms 115:4-7Exodus 34:17Exodus 20:23Exodus 20:3-5Deuteronomy 27:15

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Leviticus 19 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterLeviticus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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