Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the verse 'You shall not make with me gods of silver, neither shall you make for yourselves gods of gold' mean?
A: This verse, found in Exodus 20:20, is a commandment against idolatry. It prohibits creating any physical representations of Hashem (G-d) or worshiping false deities made of silver or gold. Rashi explains that this reinforces the idea that Hashem cannot be confined to any physical form, and worship must be directed solely to Him in a spiritual manner.
Q: Why is this commandment important in Judaism?
A: This commandment is fundamental because idolatry (avodah zarah) is one of the gravest sins in Judaism. The Rambam (Maimonides) teaches that rejecting idolatry is equivalent to accepting the entire Torah. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 74a) states that a Jew must give up their life rather than commit idolatry, emphasizing its severity.
Q: How does this verse apply today if we don't worship physical idols?
A: While literal idol worship is rare today, the Torah's warning extends to any form of misplaced devotion—whether it's excessive attachment to money (symbolized by silver and gold), fame, or other distractions that take priority over serving Hashem. The Midrash teaches that anything a person prioritizes above G-d can become a form of modern idolatry.
Q: What can we learn from this verse about the nature of G-d?
A: This verse teaches that Hashem is beyond physical representation. Unlike pagan deities, which were often depicted in silver or gold, the Torah emphasizes that G-d is intangible and infinite. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 1:8) explains that Hashem has no body or form, and any attempt to depict Him diminishes His true essence.
Q: Does this verse forbid making artistic representations altogether?
A: No, this verse specifically prohibits creating idols for worship. Jewish tradition permits artistic depictions (like synagogue decorations or kiddush cups) as long as they are not intended for worship. The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 141) clarifies that images are only forbidden if they are made to be venerated as deities.
Prohibition Against Idolatry
The verse (Exodus 20:20) prohibits the creation of idols, specifically "gods of silver" and "gods of gold," even if they are intended to serve as representations of Hashem. This reinforces the absolute rejection of any physical representation of the Divine, as Hashem is beyond form or comparison.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi comments that the phrase "לֹא תַעֲשׂוּן אִתִּי" ("You shall not make with Me") implies that one should not create idols in conjunction with serving Hashem. Even if one claims that such images are meant to honor Hashem, it remains forbidden, as it leads to a distortion of true worship.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchot Avodah Zarah (Laws of Idolatry), the Rambam (Maimonides) explains that this prohibition extends to any form of intermediary worship. The verse emphasizes that one must serve Hashem directly, without attributing divinity to physical objects—whether of silver, gold, or any other material.
Midrashic Insight
The Mechilta elaborates that the repetition of "לֹא תַעֲשׂוּ" ("You shall not make") serves as a warning against two types of idolatry:
Practical Implications
This verse underscores the Torah's uncompromising stance against idolatry in any form. The Sages teach that even the finest materials—such as silver and gold—cannot elevate an object to holiness if it is worshipped. True service of Hashem must remain purely spiritual, without physical intermediaries.