from an unused root meaning to shade; a phantom, i.e. (figuratively) illusion, resemblance; hence, a representative figure, especially an idol; image, vain shew.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tselem**, represented by `{{H6754}}`, primarily means **image**. It is defined as a phantom, illusion, or resemblance, and by extension, a representative figure, especially an idol. Occurring **17 times** in **15 unique verses**, this term carries significant weight, encompassing both the divine dignity of humanity and the corruption of idolatry.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H6754}}` is used in two starkly contrasting ways. Its most foundational use is in the creation account, where God {H430} declared His intention to make {H6213} man {H120} in His **image** `{{H6754}}` [[Genesis 1:26]]. This concept is reinforced when the text states that God {H430} created {H1254} man {H120} in His own **image** `{{H6754}}` [[Genesis 1:27]]. This divine imprint is so sacred that shedding man's blood is a grave offense, precisely because man was made in God's **image** [[Genesis 9:6]]. In contrast, `{{H6754}}` is frequently used to denote forbidden idols that must be destroyed {H6}, such as the molten {H4541} **images** `{{H6754}}` of the inhabitants of the land [[Numbers 33:52]] and the **images** `{{H6754}}` of Baal {H1168} [[2 Kings 11:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H6754}}`:
* `{{H1823}}` **dᵉmûwth** (resemblance, likeness): This word is often paired directly with **tselem**. In creation, humanity is made in God's **image** `{{H6754}}` and after His **likeness** `{{H1823}}` [[Genesis 1:26]]. Similarly, Adam {H121} begat {H3205} a son in his own **likeness** `{{H1823}}`, after his **image** `{{H6754}}` [[Genesis 5:3]].
* `{{H120}}` **ʼâdâm** (man, human being): This term for humanity is intrinsically linked to `{{H6754}}`, as **man** is the being specifically created {H1254} in the **image** of God {H430} [[Genesis 1:27]].
* `{{H4541}}` **maççêkâh** (molten image): This word specifies a type of idol and is used alongside **tselem** to describe the idolatrous objects that Israel was commanded to **destroy** `{{H6}}` upon entering the land [[Numbers 33:52]].
* `{{H1892}}` **hebel** (vanity, emptiness): This concept is connected to the figurative use of **tselem**. Man's life is described as walking in a "vain shew" (**tselem**), and his disquiet is in **vain** (hebel) [[Psalms 39:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6754}}` is profound, touching on creation, sin, and redemption.
* **The Image of God (Imago Dei):** This is the cornerstone concept. Being made in God's **image** grants humanity a unique status and dominion {H7287} over creation [[Genesis 1:26]]. This reflection of the divine is passed down through generations, as Adam's son Seth {H8352} was born in his father's **image** [[Genesis 5:3]].
* **Idolatry as Perversion:** The term is used to condemn the creation of physical representations of gods. These **images** `{{H6754}}` are considered abominations {H8441} [[Ezekiel 7:20]] and are associated with spiritual whoredom {H2181} [[Ezekiel 16:17]]. The destruction {H5422} of these **images** is a recurring theme of religious reform [[2 Chronicles 23:17]].
* **Phantom and Illusion:** The word's meaning as a "phantom" or "vain shew" highlights the transitory nature of worldly pursuits. A man's life can be a mere **image** `{{H6754}}` [[Psalms 39:6]], and the **image** `{{H6754}}` of the wicked will be despised {H959} by the Lord {H136} like a dream {H2472} upon awakening [[Psalms 73:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6754}}` **tselem** is a word with a powerful duality. It establishes the pinnacle of human dignity as bearers of God's likeness, while simultaneously defining the depth of human corruption in the worship of false idols. From the creation of Adam to the condemnation of Baal worship, **tselem** serves as a vital term for understanding humanity's purpose and its potential for both profound honor and grave sin.
TRV