Definition: Lest ye corrupt [yourselves], and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Deuteronomy 4:16. It’s a really important verse about our relationship with God and avoiding temptation. Here's a simple explanation: Basically, it warns us against creating idols or images of anything that isn't real. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Deuteronomy”: This is part of the Old Testament, which comes before the New Testament (the Bible we read today). It’s a law book given to Moses. “4:16”: This is the verse itself. “Lest ye corrupt [yourselves]”: This is the key part. “Ye” means "you" – it's addressing everyone in the community of Israel, which was a group of people under Moses’ leadership. “Lest” means “lest,” which means “if” or “in case.” So, this part of the verse means “If you allow yourselves to be tempted by doing something that isn’t right, or creating an image of anything other than God, then you will become corrupted.” “and make you a graven image…”: This is where it gets tricky. “Graven image” doesn't mean a literal statue made of stone. It means an image made by humans, something that represents or idolizes a god or figure. Think of it as creating something that’s worshiped more than God itself. “the similitude…”: This word "similitude" means “similar” or “like.” So, it's not just about copying someone; it’s about resembling them in a way that goes beyond what is right and holy. In simpler terms, the verse says: Don’t worship anything besides God. Don’t create images of anything that isn't real – don’t make something that represents or idolizes anything other than God. It's about staying true to your relationship with God and avoiding things that could lead you astray. Why is this important? This warning was given to the Israelites because they were about to enter into a covenant (a promise) with God. This covenant meant they were obligated to follow God’s laws and rules. Creating idols would have been a way of disobeying those laws and breaking that covenant, which would have caused serious problems for them. Does this mean we shouldn't anything like creating an image? Not necessarily in the sense of making a statue. It means focusing on things that are not God – things that take precedence over him. It’s about being mindful of our desires and actions, ensuring they remain aligned with what is truly good and holy. --- Would you like me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Give you an example of something that could be considered a "graven image" (without actually providing one)? Discuss how this verse relates to other parts of the Bible?