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Deuteronomy 4:16

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
Lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female,
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

Don't corrupt yourselves by making carved idols or statues that look like any kind of figure - whether shaped like a man or woman,

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

God is warning His people not to make any kind of idol or statue to worship, as this would corrupt their relationship with Him.

📚 Historical Context

In the historical context, Moses was delivering his final speeches to the Israelites on the plains of Moab, just before they entered the Promised Land, warning them against repeating the idolatry that had caused trouble in their past, such as the golden calf incident at Sinai. This verse is part of a broader exhortation in Deuteronomy to remain faithful to God's commandments, emphasizing the dangers of adopting the idol-worshipping practices of the surrounding Canaanite cultures. It reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where obedience was key to their identity as a holy nation.

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