Bible Dictionary

Idol

An image, representation, or object worshiped or treated as a deity.

Quick Reference

Total Entries

516

Entry Position

251 of 516

Letter

I

Meaning

An image, representation, or object worshiped or treated as a deity.

Key Scriptures

  • Exodus 20:4-5
  • Deuteronomy 4:15-19
  • Judges 2:11-13
  • 1 Samuel 12:20-21
  • 2 Kings 17:12
  • Psalm 115:4-8
  • Isaiah 44:9-20
  • Jeremiah 10:3-5
  • Ezekiel 14:3-7
  • Habakkuk 2:18-19
  • Acts 17:16
  • 1 Corinthians 10:14
  • 1 John 5:21

Original Language

Hebrew

פֶּסֶל

pesel

carved image; idol

Greek

εἴδωλον

eidōlon

idol; image of a deity

Meaning

An idol is an image, representation, or object worshiped or treated as a deity.

Biblical Usage

The Bible uses idol for physical images or objects associated with the worship of false gods. Idols are repeatedly condemned because worship belongs to the LORD alone.

Scripture also describes idols as powerless objects made by human hands. The prophets emphasize that they cannot speak, hear, see, or deliver those who trust in them. The New Testament continues the warning against idolatry.

Key References

  • Exodus 20:4-5
  • Deuteronomy 4:15-19
  • Judges 2:11-13
  • Psalm 115:4-8
  • Isaiah 44:9-20
  • Ezekiel 14:3-7
  • 1 Corinthians 10:14
  • 1 John 5:21
  • Idolatry
  • Graven Image
  • Teraphim
  • Baal
  • Ashtaroth

Study More

Continue your Bible study by exploring related Scriptures, dictionary terms, and connected topics.

Scriptures

  • Exodus 20:4-5
  • Deuteronomy 4:15-19
  • Judges 2:11-13
  • 1 Samuel 12:20-21
  • 2 Kings 17:12
  • Psalm 115:4-8
  • Isaiah 44:9-20
  • Jeremiah 10:3-5
  • Ezekiel 14:3-7
  • Habakkuk 2:18-19
  • Acts 17:16
  • 1 Corinthians 10:14
  • 1 John 5:21

Related Terms

Idolatry Graven Image Teraphim Baal Ashtaroth

Study Topics

worship idolatry images false gods