### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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.
TRV