Deuteronomy 4:17 Meaning and Explanation
“The likeness of any beast that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged fowl that flieth in the air,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Do not make images of any land animals or birds.
The Context of Deuteronomy 4:17
Moses continues the prohibition against idolatry to include animals and birds.
What Does Deuteronomy 4:17 Mean?
The prohibition extends to animal forms—creatures that walk on the earth and birds that fly in the air. This comprehensive prohibition on animal idolatry reflects practices among Israel's neighbors, where bulls, calves, and other creatures were sometimes treated as divine manifestations or worthy of worship.
By forbidding animal images, the law protects Israel from confusion about God's nature. Animals, however strong or swift or wise they might be, are part of God's creation and cannot represent the eternal, invisible God who gave the law. Worshipping through animal images places the created order in the place of the Creator.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 4:17
What does Deuteronomy 4:17 mean?
Do not make images of any land animals or birds.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 4:17?
Moses continues the prohibition against idolatry to include animals and birds.