Deuteronomy 7:5 Meaning and Explanation
“But thus shall ye deal with them; ye shall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Israel must systematically destroy the pagan altars, idols, and sacred groves.
The Context of Deuteronomy 7:5
Moses commands the systematic destruction of pagan religious infrastructure.
What Does Deuteronomy 7:5 Mean?
Rather than simply removing the people, Israel must dismantle the entire religious infrastructure—altars, images, groves, and graven idols. This thorough destruction of cultic objects prevents the ongoing temptation to worship at already-established sacred sites. The specificity of the commands (destroy altars, break images, cut groves, burn idols) suggests a systematic program that touches every form of pagan worship.
This approach reflects the understanding that religious practice is embedded in physical space and objects. Removing the shrines removes the constant visual and spatial reminder that would otherwise normalize foreign worship. The emphasis on fire for burning idols conveys finality and purification.
Deuteronomy 7:5 in the Original Language
asherim (אֲשֵׁרִים), 'groves' — wooden cultic poles or structures associated with goddess worship throughout Canaan; their explicit prohibition throughout Deuteronomy signals concern about fertility-cult influence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 7:5
What does Deuteronomy 7:5 mean?
Israel must systematically destroy the pagan altars, idols, and sacred groves.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 7:5?
Moses commands the systematic destruction of pagan religious infrastructure.