The Hebrew word maskîyth, represented by H4906, refers to a figure or image, but also extends into the figurative realms of imagination and conceit. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses, highlighting its specific yet significant role in discussing both physical objects of worship and internal states of mind. Its definition encompasses a carved figure, a picture, or an inner thought, wish, or conceit.
In its literal sense, H4906 is frequently used in commands against idolatry. God explicitly forbids Israel to set up H5414 any image H4906 of stone H68 in their land H776 to bow down H7812 to it Leviticus 26:1. This is reinforced with instructions to destroy H6 the inhabitants' pictures H4906 and molten H4541 images H6754 upon entering the promised land Numbers 33:52. Figuratively, the term describes internal corruption, such as when the elders of Israel H3478 practice secret worship in the chambers H2315 of their imagery H4906 Ezekiel 8:12. It is also used for the false security of a rich man H6223 whose wealth H1952 is a high wall in his own conceit H4906 Proverbs 18:11. In a positive context, a well-spoken word H1697 is beautifully compared to apples of gold H2091 in pictures H4906 of silver H3701 Proverbs 25:11.
Several related words clarify the context of idolatry in which H4906 is often found:
- H457 'ĕlîyl (idol): This term, meaning thing of nought, is used alongside H4906 to emphasize the worthlessness of man-made objects of worship Leviticus 26:1.
- H6459 peçel (carved (graven) image): Denoting an idol specifically carved from material, this word often appears with H4906 in prohibitions against idolatry Leviticus 26:1.
- H4676 matstsêbâh (standing image): Referring to a pillar or memorial stone set up for worship, this word is included in the list of forbidden objects that Israel must not rear you up H6965 Leviticus 26:1.
The theological significance of H4906 is centered on the purity of worship and thought.
- Condemnation of Physical Idolatry: The term is a key part of the Bible's prohibition against using physical objects to represent or worship God. Israel was commanded not just to avoid but to actively destroy H6 all such pictures H4906 and pluck down H8045 the high places H1116 associated with them Numbers 33:52.
- Warning Against Internal Pride: The word's use as conceit H4906 reveals a deeper theological truth: false security and pride are a form of internal idolatry. A rich man's H6223 wealth H1952 can become a false refuge in his own mind Proverbs 18:11.
- The Heart's Secret Desires: H4906 is used to describe both the secret "imagery" of the heart that leads to sin Ezekiel 8:12 and the boundless desires of the wicked, who have more than their heart H3824 could wish H4906 Psalms 73:7. This connects the external act of making an image with the internal state that precedes it.
In summary, H4906 maskîyth carries a dual warning against both external and internal forms of idolatry. Whether as a physical image H4906 of stone H68 Leviticus 26:1 or as the deceptive conceit H4906 of the human heart Proverbs 18:11, it represents a turning away from the true God. Its usage underscores the biblical principle that worship must be directed toward the unseen Creator, free from reliance on carved figures or self-generated fantasies of security and desire.
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