Deuteronomy 4:16

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

لِئَلاَّ تَفسُدوا وتَصنَعوا لَكم تِمْثالًا مَنْحوتًا على شَكْلِ صورةٍ ما مِن ذَكَرٍ أَو أُنْثى،

What Does This Mean?

In Deuteronomy 4:16, Moses warns the Israelites not to make idols or images of any kind, male or female, to worship. He wants to prevent them from corrupting themselves by following false gods.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a favorite toy that you really like. Now, what if you started to think that this toy could help you in real life, like making you happy or solving your problems? That would be silly, right? Moses is telling the people not to do something similar with statues or pictures, because only God can really help them.

Historical Background

This verse was spoken by Moses to the Israelites around 1400-1200 BCE, just before they were to enter the Promised Land. The Israelites were surrounded by cultures that worshiped idols, and Moses wanted to ensure they remained faithful to the one true God.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse can remind us to not idolize things like money, fame, or even our own achievements. Just like the Israelites were warned against false gods, we are reminded to keep our focus on what truly matters and not let these things corrupt our values or distract us from serving God.

Topics

• idolatry
• worship
• faithfulness
• warnings
• false gods
• corruption

Related Verses

• Exodus 20:4
• Isaiah 44:9-20
• Romans 1:22-25
• 1 John 5:21
• 1 Corinthians 10:14

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Moses so concerned about the Israelites making idols?

Moses was concerned because he knew that idols could lead the Israelites away from the true God. Worshipping false gods would corrupt their faith and lead them into sin.

What does the verse mean by 'corrupt yourselves'?

To 'corrupt yourselves' means to let false beliefs and actions affect and ruin your relationship with God and your moral standards.

Can you give an example of what Moses might consider a 'graven image'?

A graven image could be any carved or sculpted figure, such as a statue or a carved wooden figure, that represents a god or deity. Moses warns against making any such images.

How does this verse apply to our lives today?

In our modern context, this verse reminds us to avoid idolizing things that can distract us from God, such as money, power, or even technology, and to stay focused on what truly matters in life.