Deuteronomy 16:22

22 And you shall not set up a pillar, which the LORD your God hates.

Deuteronomy 16:22 Meaning and Commentary

Deuteronomy 16:22

Neither shalt thou set up any image
Graven or molten, of man, beast, fish, or fowl; the word signifies a "statue or pillar" F3 which was set up for idolatry; for, as Aben Ezra observes, what was not set up for idolatry was not forbidden, as when erected in memory of any action or remarkable event; see ( Joshua 22:10 )

which the Lord thy God hateth;
as he does every species, of idolatry, or that has any tendency to it; it being so opposite to his being, perfections, and glory; and therefore nothing should be done like it, because it is so hateful to him.


FOOTNOTES:

F3 (hbum) (sthlhn) , Sept. "statuam", V. L. Pagninus, Montanus, Tig. vers. Fagius, Drusius, Grotius, Junius & Tremellius, Piscator; so Ainsworth.

Deuteronomy 16:22 In-Context

20 Justice, and only justice, you shall follow, that you may live and inherit the land which the LORD your God gives you.
21 "You shall not plant any tree as an Ashe'rah beside the altar of the LORD your God which you shall make.
22 And you shall not set up a pillar, which the LORD your God hates.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.