Deuteronomy 7:25

KJV

The graven images of their gods shall ye burn with fire: thou shalt not desire the silver or gold [that is] on them, nor take [it] unto thee, lest thou be snared therein: for it [is] an abomination to the LORD thy God.

KJV (with Strong's)

The graven images {H6456} of their gods {H430} shall ye burn {H8313} with fire {H784}: thou shalt not desire {H2530} the silver {H3701} or gold {H2091} that is on them, nor take {H3947} it unto thee, lest thou be snared {H3369} therein: for it is an abomination {H8441} to the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You are to burn up completely the carved statues of their gods. Don't be greedy for the silver or gold on them; don't take it with you, or you will be trapped by it; for it is abhorrent to ADONAI your God.

Berean Standard Bible

You must burn up the images of their gods; do not covet the silver and gold that is on them or take it for yourselves, or you will be ensnared by it; for it is detestable to the LORD your God.

American Standard Version

The graven images of their gods shall ye burn with fire: thou shalt not covet the silver or the gold that is on them, nor take it unto thee, lest thou be snared therein; for it is an abomination to Jehovah thy God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 7:25 issues a non-negotiable command to Israel regarding the complete eradication of Canaanite idolatry upon entering the Promised Land. It mandates the fiery destruction of all "graven images" and strictly forbids coveting or taking any precious metals associated with them, warning that such appropriation would lead to spiritual entanglement. This prohibition underscores the profound defilement that idolatrous objects carried in God's sight, declaring them an "abomination" to the LORD, thus demanding absolute separation and purity from His covenant people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 7:25 is embedded within Moses' second major discourse to the new generation of Israelites, delivered on the plains of Moab just prior to their entry into Canaan. This chapter forms a crucial part of the covenant renewal ceremony, where Moses reiterates and expounds upon the Law given at Mount Sinai, preparing the people for life in the Promised Land. Specifically, chapter 7 outlines the strict commands for Israel's interaction with the indigenous Canaanite nations, emphasizing absolute separation to preserve their covenant fidelity. Verses 1-5 command the complete destruction of these nations and their religious infrastructure, prohibiting any covenants or intermarriage. Verse 25 directly follows the command to utterly destroy their altars, sacred pillars, Asherah poles, and graven images (Deuteronomy 7:5), reinforcing the totality of this spiritual cleansing. The subsequent verses (Deuteronomy 7:26) further solidify this by declaring any such detestable thing brought into one's house as "accursed," reinforcing the danger and the necessity of complete eradication.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** As Israel stood on the cusp of entering Canaan, they faced a land permeated by polytheistic worship, fertility cults, and abhorrent practices like child sacrifice, all centered around numerous deities such as Baal, Asherah, and Molech. The "graven images" mentioned were not merely statues; they were tangible representations of these gods, often adorned with precious metals, serving as focal points for pagan rituals. The command to "burn with fire" was a deliberate act of desacralization, stripping these objects of any perceived power or holiness and demonstrating the LORD's absolute supremacy. The prohibition against desiring the "silver or gold" was critical because these materials, often plundered from defeated enemies, were typically dedicated to the victor's gods. By forbidding Israel from taking such spoils, God prevented any subtle acknowledgment or appropriation of pagan power, ensuring that Israel's conquest was solely for the LORD and not for material gain that could lead to spiritual compromise.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. It highlights the theme of **Absolute Rejection of Idolatry**, demanding not just abstention from worship but the total obliteration of its physical manifestations, signifying that there is no compromise with false gods. This is foundational to the [first commandment](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3 - The First Commandment") against having other gods. The command also reinforces the theme of **Holiness and Separation**, underscoring that Israel, as God's chosen people, must remain distinct and undefiled by the corrupting influences of the surrounding nations. Their covenant relationship with the LORD necessitated a radical purity, setting them apart as a holy nation (Deuteronomy 7:6). Furthermore, the warning against desiring the precious metals addresses the theme of **Warning Against Covetousness**, revealing that even seemingly innocuous material gain, if associated with idolatry, could become a "snare." This speaks to the insidious nature of sin, where material temptation can subtly lead to spiritual defilement, echoing warnings found in [1 Corinthians 10:14](/1_corinthians/10-14 "1 Corinthians 10:14 - Flee from Idolatry") to flee from idolatry.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Graven Images (Hebrew, _pesel'_):** This term refers to an idol or image, typically one that is carved or hewn, often from wood or stone, and then potentially overlaid with precious metals. The word emphasizes the human effort in creating these objects, contrasting them with the uncreated, living God. The command to burn them signifies a complete and irreversible destruction, stripping them of any perceived power or value.
* **Burn with Fire (Hebrew, _saraph ba'esh'_):** This phrase denotes total destruction and purification. Fire was often used in the Old Testament to consume that which was defiled or to purify that which was holy. Here, it signifies the absolute annihilation of the idols, ensuring no remnant remains to tempt or defile. It's an act of desacralization, rendering the idols utterly powerless and worthless.
* **Abomination (Hebrew, _to'evah'_):** This is a very strong theological term, indicating something utterly detestable, abhorrent, and morally repugnant to God. It is used throughout the Old Testament for practices that violate God's holy character and law, such as idolatry, certain sexual sins, and unjust dealings. In Deuteronomy 7:25, it underscores the profound spiritual offense of even possessing materials that served false gods, highlighting God's absolute intolerance for anything that compromises His holiness or diverts worship from Him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The graven images of their gods shall ye burn with fire:"** This is a direct, imperative command for the Israelites to utterly destroy all physical representations of the Canaanite deities. The method of "burning with fire" emphasizes the totality and irreversibility of the destruction, ensuring that no part of these idols could remain to exert influence or be reused, thereby preventing any form of syncretism or compromise with pagan worship.
* **"thou shalt not desire the silver or gold [that is] on them, nor take [it] unto thee,"** This clause extends the prohibition beyond the idol itself to the precious materials adorning it. It addresses the internal temptation ("desire") as well as the external action ("take it unto thee"). This highlights the insidious nature of covetousness, warning against the allure of material wealth, especially when it is tainted by its association with false worship. The command is not merely about physical destruction but about spiritual purity of heart and motive.
* **"lest thou be snared therein:"** This phrase explains the dire consequence of disobeying the previous command. To be "snared" implies being trapped, entangled, or caught in a spiritual trap. Possessing or coveting these materials could subtly lead to defilement, spiritual compromise, or even a gradual drift back into idolatrous practices, as the objects themselves carried a spiritual impurity from their pagan use.
* **"for it [is] an abomination to the LORD thy God."** This final clause provides the theological justification for the entire command. The reason for such strictness is God's holy character and His absolute detestation of idolatry. Anything associated with false gods is an "abomination" to Him, utterly repugnant and offensive. This declaration underscores that the command is not arbitrary but flows directly from God's nature and His demand for exclusive, pure worship from His covenant people.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 7:25 employs several potent literary devices to convey its urgent message. The use of **Imperative Language** ("shall ye burn," "shalt not desire," "nor take") creates a direct, non-negotiable command, emphasizing the absolute authority of God's word and the immediate necessity of obedience. The phrase "burn with fire" functions as **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis**, not just suggesting destruction but total, irreversible annihilation, leaving no room for compromise or partial obedience. The "silver or gold" on the idols serves as a **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, representing not just the material wealth but the entire allure and spiritual danger associated with pagan practices. Furthermore, the warning "lest thou be snared therein" uses a **Metaphor** of a trap, vividly illustrating the insidious spiritual danger that seemingly innocuous material gain can pose. Finally, the concluding phrase "for it is an abomination to the LORD thy God" acts as a **Theological Justification** or **Rationale**, providing the divine reason for the command and grounding it in God's holy character and His absolute intolerance for idolatry.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 7:25 serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of God's holiness and His demand for exclusive worship. It reveals that idolatry is not merely a deviation in practice but a direct affront to God's character, rendering anything associated with it an "abomination." This command underscores the principle that God's people must be set apart, not only in their worship but in every aspect of their lives, maintaining absolute purity from anything that defiles or competes with His rightful place. The prohibition against coveting the precious metals highlights the insidious nature of sin, demonstrating how material allure can become a spiritual "snare," leading to compromise and defilement. This radical call to separation and destruction of idols is a testament to God's jealousy for His glory and His desire for an undivided heart from His covenant people, ensuring their spiritual well-being and the integrity of their relationship with Him.

* [Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3-5 - The First and Second Commandments") - Directly links to the first two commandments, prohibiting other gods and the making/worship of idols, reinforcing the foundational nature of this command.
* [1 John 5:21](/1_john/5-21 "1 John 5:21 - Keep Yourselves from Idols") - A New Testament echo of the ancient command, urging believers to guard their hearts against anything that would take God's place, whether physical or spiritual.
* [Colossians 3:5](/colossians/3-5 "Colossians 3:5 - Put to Death Earthly Things") - Explicitly identifies covetousness as idolatry, demonstrating how the principle of Deuteronomy 7:25 extends beyond physical images to internal desires that displace God.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While modern believers may not encounter physical "graven images" in the same way as ancient Israel, the spiritual principles embedded in Deuteronomy 7:25 remain profoundly relevant. This verse challenges us to a radical self-examination, prompting us to identify and ruthlessly "burn with fire" anything in our lives that competes for God's ultimate allegiance. Modern "idols" can manifest as anything we desire, pursue, or trust in more than God—be it wealth, career, relationships, reputation, comfort, power, or even self-image. The prohibition against coveting the "silver or gold" from idols warns us against the subtle allure of worldly gain, especially when it comes at the cost of spiritual integrity. It calls us to recognize that even seemingly neutral possessions or aspirations can become a "snare" if they lead our hearts away from God or defile our walk with Him. True spiritual purity demands not just abstaining from overt sin, but actively dismantling and rejecting anything that subtly or overtly threatens God's supreme reign in our lives, ensuring that our hearts are fully devoted to Him alone.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the "graven images" or "idols" in my life today that compete for my ultimate devotion and allegiance to God?**
* **In what ways might I be "desiring the silver or gold" (i.e., coveting worldly treasures or pursuits) that, though seemingly harmless, could become a spiritual "snare" for me?**
* **What practical steps can I take to "burn with fire" (metaphorically speaking) these modern idols and ensure God holds the supreme place in my heart and life?**
* **How does my pursuit of spiritual purity reflect God's character and His demand for holiness in my daily living?**

### FAQ
**Why was God so strict about destroying the idols and their materials?**

Answer: God's strictness stemmed from His absolute holiness and His demand for exclusive worship. Idolatry was considered spiritual adultery, a direct violation of the covenant relationship with Him. The "graven images" and even the precious metals on them were deemed "abominations" not because the materials themselves were evil, but because they were consecrated to false gods and represented a competing allegiance. God knew that any compromise, any lingering attachment to these objects, could subtly "snare" Israel, leading them into syncretism, defilement, and ultimately, away from Him. This radical destruction was a necessary measure to protect Israel's spiritual purity and ensure their undivided devotion to the one true God, as commanded in [Deuteronomy 6:4-5](/deuteronomy/6-4-5 "Deuteronomy 6:4-5 - The Shema").

**What does 'snared therein' mean in a practical sense for the Israelites?**

Answer: For the Israelites, being "snared therein" meant falling into a spiritual trap. Practically, this could manifest in several ways:
* **Spiritual Compromise:** Keeping the silver or gold might lead them to believe there was some value or power in the idol itself, or that the Canaanite gods had some legitimacy.
* **Syncretism:** It could encourage mixing Israelite worship with pagan practices, believing they could serve both the LORD and other gods, which God explicitly forbade (e.g., [1 Kings 18:21](/1_kings/18-21 "1 Kings 18:21 - Elijah's Challenge on Mount Carmel")).
* **Moral Corruption:** Idolatry was often linked to immoral and unjust practices (e.g., cult prostitution, child sacrifice), and retaining objects associated with it could desensitize them to such evils.
* **Disobedience and Judgment:** Ultimately, it was an act of disobedience that would incur God's wrath and lead to the loss of His blessing and protection, as warned throughout [Deuteronomy](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses").

**How does this apply to believers today if we don't worship physical idols?**

Answer: While physical idols may be less common in many cultures today, the underlying principles of Deuteronomy 7:25 are profoundly relevant. The "graven images" represent anything that takes God's rightful place in our hearts and lives. Modern "idols" can be abstract concepts or tangible possessions: money, career, relationships, power, status, comfort, entertainment, or even self-image. The "silver or gold" represents the allure and perceived value of these things. The command to "burn with fire" means we must ruthlessly identify and eliminate anything that competes with God for ultimate devotion. The warning "lest thou be snared therein" reminds us that even seemingly good things can become dangerous idols if they lead us away from God. We are called to maintain spiritual purity, recognizing that covetousness and misplaced affections are forms of idolatry ([Colossians 3:5](/colossians/3-5 "Colossians 3:5 - Put to Death Earthly Things")), and to live a life fully devoted to Christ alone ([Matthew 6:24](/matthew/6-24 "Matthew 6:24 - No One Can Serve Two Masters")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 7:25, with its stern command against idolatry and the defiling nature of its associated wealth, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament law, though righteous, could not fully cleanse the human heart from its propensity to create and cling to idols. It merely exposed the depth of sin and the need for a radical transformation. Christ, however, is the perfect embodiment of God's holiness, and through His redemptive work, He provides the means for true spiritual purification. He did not merely command the destruction of idols; He conquered the very power of sin and death that gives rise to idolatry in the human heart. His sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate act of "burning with fire" the defilement of sin, making it possible for us to be truly set apart for God ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Cleansing from Dead Works")). Furthermore, the warning against being "snared therein" by coveting worldly treasures is overcome by Christ's call to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness ([Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - Seek First the Kingdom")). Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, believers are empowered to "put to death" the "earthly things" that act as modern idols—covetousness, greed, and all forms of ungodly desire ([Colossians 3:5](/colossians/3-5 "Colossians 3:5 - Put to Death Earthly Things")). Christ enables us to truly worship God "in spirit and truth" ([John 4:23-24](/john/4-23-24 "John 4:23-24 - True Worship")), freeing us from the snare of any competing allegiance and making us truly holy, as He is holy ([1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 32:20

And he took the calf which they had made, and burnt [it] in the fire, and ground [it] to powder, and strawed [it] upon the water, and made the children of Israel drink [of it].

1 Chronicles 14:12

And when they had left their gods there, David gave a commandment, and they were burned with fire.

Deuteronomy 17:1

¶ Thou shalt not sacrifice unto the LORD thy God [any] bullock, or sheep, wherein is blemish, [or] any evilfavouredness: for that [is] an abomination unto the LORD thy God.

Deuteronomy 12:3

And ye shall overthrow their altars, and break their pillars, and burn their groves with fire; and ye shall hew down the graven images of their gods, and destroy the names of them out of that place.

Joshua 7:21

When I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight, then I coveted them, and took them; and, behold, they [are] hid in the earth in the midst of my tent, and the silver under it.

Joshua 7:1

¶ But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel.

Judges 8:24

And Gideon said unto them, I would desire a request of you, that ye would give me every man the earrings of his prey. (For they had golden earrings, because they [were] Ishmaelites.)