### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **peçel**, represented by `{{H6459}}`, refers to a **carved (graven) image** or an **idol**. It appears 31 times across 31 unique verses in the Bible. This term specifically denotes an image fashioned from materials like wood or stone and stands as a central object of forbidden worship, directly challenging the First and Second Commandments.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical law, `{{H6459}}` is explicitly and repeatedly forbidden. The Decalogue states, "Thou shalt not make unto thee any **graven image**" ([[Exodus 20:4]], [[Deuteronomy 5:8]]). This prohibition is reinforced with a curse upon any person who makes a **graven** or molten image, calling it "an abomination unto the LORD" [[Deuteronomy 27:15]]. The term is also used in historical narratives to describe acts of national apostasy, such as when the children of Dan set up a **graven image** [[Judges 18:30]] or when a king placed a **graven image** in the house of the LORD itself [[2 Kings 21:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and nature of idols:
* `{{H4541}}` **maççêkâh** (molten image): Defined as a "fusion of metal (especially a cast image)," this term often appears alongside **peçel** to describe idols made from cast metal. The two are frequently condemned together, as in the curse against anyone who makes a "graven or **molten image**" [[Deuteronomy 27:15]].
* `{{H457}}` **ʼĕlîyl** (idol): This word means "good for nothing" or "thing of nought." It highlights the worthlessness of the objects being worshipped, contrasting the maker's trust with the reality of "dumb **idols**" [[Habakkuk 2:18]].
* `{{H6884}}` **tsâraph** (founder): Meaning "to fuse (metal)," this term identifies the craftsman who creates the idols. The prophets mock this process, noting that the **founder** is ultimately confounded by the very **graven image** he has made [[Jeremiah 10:14]].
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts** (wood): This word for a tree or wood points to the mundane origin of many idols. People are described as having "no knowledge that set up the **wood** of their graven image" [[Isaiah 45:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6459}}` is centered on the folly and sin of idolatry.
* **A Lifeless Falsehood:** Prophets emphasize the inert nature of the graven image. It is described as "falsehood" and having "no breath in them" ([[Jeremiah 10:14]], [[Jeremiah 51:17]]). This contrasts sharply with the living God.
* **Human Folly:** The act of creating and worshipping a **peçel** is portrayed as the height of foolishness. A person takes wood, burns part of it for warmth, and uses the residue to make a god to worship [[Isaiah 44:15-17]]. Those who make a **graven image** are called "vanity" and their creations "shall not profit" [[Isaiah 44:9]].
* **A Source of Deception:** An idol is not merely useless but actively deceptive. It is called a "teacher of lies," leading its worshippers away from the true God [[Habakkuk 2:18]]. Trusting in these images ultimately leads to shame [[Isaiah 42:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6459}}` is not simply an artifact but a symbol of rebellion against God. As a **graven image**, it represents the futile human attempt to create a tangible object of worship from common materials like wood and metal. Its presence in scripture serves as a constant warning against the sin of idolatry, highlighting the foolishness of worshipping the work of one's own hands instead of the Creator.
TRV