Deuteronomy 27:15 - ‘Cursed is the man who makes an engraved or molten image, an abomination to Yahweh, the work of the hands of the craftsman, and sets it up in secret.’ All the people shall answer and say, ‘Amen.’
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What does "Deuteronomy 27:15" mean?
This verse from Deuteronomy 27:15 is a curse pronounced against anyone who secretly creates and sets up an engraved or molten image (an idol). Let's break it down:
"Cursed is the man who makes an engraved or molten image...": This establishes a curse, a declaration of divine disfavor and potential negative consequences, upon anyone who engages in the prohibited activity. The "engraved or molten image" refers to idols - representations of deities made through carving or casting molten metal. These idols were often used for worship in ancient Near Eastern cultures.
"...an abomination to Yahweh...": This highlights the core reason for the curse. The making and worshipping of idols is described as an "abomination" to Yahweh (the Hebrew name for God). An abomination signifies something utterly detestable and morally repugnant to God.
"...the work of the hands of the craftsman...": This phrase emphasizes the man-made nature of the idol. It underscores the point that these objects, though crafted with skill, are simply the product of human hands and hold no inherent divine power.
"...and sets it up in secret...": The curse is specifically directed at those who do this "in secret." This suggests:
A sense of shame or awareness that the act is wrong.
The potential for such hidden idolatry to undermine the community's commitment to Yahweh.
The difficulty of detecting and correcting such secret sins.
"All the people shall answer and say, ‘Amen.’": This is a communal affirmation. "Amen" means "so be it" or "truly." By responding with "Amen," the entire community collectively acknowledges the validity of the curse and their commitment to upholding the covenant with Yahweh, which forbids idolatry. They are publicly agreeing that such actions deserve divine judgment.
In essence, the verse is a strong condemnation of idolatry. It highlights the offense it poses to God and the potential consequences for individuals and the community if they engage in such practices, even in secret. The communal "Amen" serves as a solemn oath to uphold the prohibition against idolatry and acknowledge the righteousness of God's judgment.
Context within Deuteronomy 27: This verse is part of a larger ceremony outlined in Deuteronomy 27 and 28. The tribes of Israel are instructed to stand on Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal and pronounce blessings for obedience to God's law and curses for disobedience. This verse is one of the curses declared from Mount Ebal. It emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, particularly the commandment against idolatry, as a condition for receiving blessings and avoiding curses.
Deuteronomy 27:15 - ‘Cursed is the man who makes an engraved or molten image, an abomination to Yahweh, the work of the hands of the craftsman, and sets it up in secret.’ All the people shall answer and say, ‘Amen.’
What does "Deuteronomy 27:15" mean?
This verse from Deuteronomy 27:15 is a curse pronounced against anyone who secretly creates and sets up an engraved or molten image (an idol). Let's break it down:
"Cursed is the man who makes an engraved or molten image...": This establishes a curse, a declaration of divine disfavor and potential negative consequences, upon anyone who engages in the prohibited activity. The "engraved or molten image" refers to idols - representations of deities made through carving or casting molten metal. These idols were often used for worship in ancient Near Eastern cultures.
"...an abomination to Yahweh...": This highlights the core reason for the curse. The making and worshipping of idols is described as an "abomination" to Yahweh (the Hebrew name for God). An abomination signifies something utterly detestable and morally repugnant to God.
"...the work of the hands of the craftsman...": This phrase emphasizes the man-made nature of the idol. It underscores the point that these objects, though crafted with skill, are simply the product of human hands and hold no inherent divine power.
"...and sets it up in secret...": The curse is specifically directed at those who do this "in secret." This suggests:
A sense of shame or awareness that the act is wrong.
The potential for such hidden idolatry to undermine the community's commitment to Yahweh.
The difficulty of detecting and correcting such secret sins.
"All the people shall answer and say, ‘Amen.’": This is a communal affirmation. "Amen" means "so be it" or "truly." By responding with "Amen," the entire community collectively acknowledges the validity of the curse and their commitment to upholding the covenant with Yahweh, which forbids idolatry. They are publicly agreeing that such actions deserve divine judgment.
In essence, the verse is a strong condemnation of idolatry. It highlights the offense it poses to God and the potential consequences for individuals and the community if they engage in such practices, even in secret. The communal "Amen" serves as a solemn oath to uphold the prohibition against idolatry and acknowledge the righteousness of God's judgment.
Context within Deuteronomy 27: This verse is part of a larger ceremony outlined in Deuteronomy 27 and 28. The tribes of Israel are instructed to stand on Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal and pronounce blessings for obedience to God's law and curses for disobedience. This verse is one of the curses declared from Mount Ebal. It emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, particularly the commandment against idolatry, as a condition for receiving blessings and avoiding curses.