Item 2 in Ten Commandments

Do Not Worship Idols

Do not make or worship images as divine rivals or representations used in prohibited worship.

Position
2
Form
Prohibition
Obligation
Mandatory
Wording status
Editorial paraphrase
Intended audience
Originally Israel; subsequently interpreted within Jewish and Christian traditions
Last reviewed
28 June 2026

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Do Not Worship Idols

Source wording

Editorial paraphrase: Do not make or worship images as divine rivals or representations used in prohibited worship.

Editorial paraphrase

Literal meaning

Do not make or worship images as divine rivals or representations used in prohibited worship.

Broader interpretation

Jewish and Christian traditions differ substantially over religious images and how this command is numbered.

Ethical purpose

To shape conduct or character in a way consistent with the wider ethical framework.

Modern application

Modern application requires attention to consent, rights, evidence, foreseeable harm and changing social conditions.

Criticism and difficult cases

Application can become difficult when this principle conflicts with another duty, when harm is indirect, or when ancient social assumptions do not fit modern conditions.

Truth By Reason analysis

Truth By Reason assesses this principle according to evidence, rights, intentions, foreseeable consequences and consistency with the treatment of all affected beings.

Ethical themes

  • Obedience
  • Worship

Sources