### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĕlîyl**, represented by `{{H457}}`, signifies something that is **good for nothing** or a **thing of nought**. It appears 20 times across 18 unique verses and is used to describe both the vanity of man-made gods and the worthlessness of false counsel. Its core meaning emphasizes emptiness and futility.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H457}}` is frequently used in divine prohibitions against idolatry. The law explicitly commands, "Turn ye not unto **idols**" [[Leviticus 19:4]] and "Ye shall make you no **idols** nor graven image" [[Leviticus 26:1]]. The prophets echo this, describing how the land has become "full of **idols**" [[Isaiah 2:8]] and foretelling a day when every man will cast away his **idols** of silver and gold [[Isaiah 31:7]]. Beyond physical objects, the term is applied to worthless people, as Job calls his friends "physicians of **no value**" [[Job 13:4]], and to false prophecy, which is dismissed as a "**thing of nought**" [[Jeremiah 14:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of idolatry and worthlessness:
* `{{H6459}}` **peçel**: This word for a **carved (graven) image** often appears alongside `{{H457}}`, highlighting the manufactured nature of false gods [[Leviticus 26:1]].
* `{{H4541}}` **maççêkâh**: Meaning a **molten (image)**, this term is used in conjunction with `{{H457}}` to forbid the creation of idols from cast metal ([[Leviticus 19:4]], [[Habakkuk 2:18]]).
* `{{H8267}}` **sheqer**: Defined as an **untruth** or **sham**, this word is linked to the deceit inherent in idolatry, where a molten image becomes a "teacher of **lies**" and is connected to dumb **idols** [[Habakkuk 2:18]].
* `{{H1544}}` **gillûwl**: Another word for **idol**, it is used in parallel with `{{H457}}` in prophecies of judgment, such as when God promises to destroy the **idols** `{{H1544}}` and cause the **images** `{{H457}}` of Egypt to cease [[Ezekiel 30:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H457}}` is significant, serving to contrast human folly with divine power.
* **Inherent Worthlessness:** The term establishes a fundamental truth that all gods of the nations are **idols** `{{H457}}`, things of no value, while the LORD is the creator of the heavens ([[Psalms 96:5]], [[1 Chronicles 16:26]]). They are "dumb **idols**" that cannot profit their makers [[Habakkuk 2:18]].
* **Divine Prohibition:** The repeated commands against making or turning to **idols** `{{H457}}` frame idolatry as a direct and serious sin against God's sovereignty ([[Leviticus 19:4]], [[Leviticus 26:1]]).
* **Subject of Judgment:** The presence of **idols** `{{H457}}` is a cause for divine judgment. The idols of Egypt are to be "moved at his presence" [[Isaiah 19:1]], and God promises to "utterly abolish" them [[Isaiah 2:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H457}}` is a powerful term that defines more than a physical object. It encapsulates the concept of ultimate futility and emptiness. Whether referring to a graven image made of gold and silver or to deceptive prophecy, **ʼĕlîyl** stands as a biblical marker for that which is worthless, powerless, and stands in stark opposition to the true and living God who made all things.
TRV