Exodus 23:13Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Consequently, it is essential for those who are genuinely righteous and devoted to God to distance themselves from such matters. They must not only sanctify their hearts but also strive to ensure that the name of an idol never escapes their lips. As it is stated, ‘Thou shalt not mention the name of other gods; let it not be heard out of thy mouth.’ What is disgraceful to contemplate is equally detrimental to articulate.

Be watchful. Deuteronomy 6, 13-15. The Israelites are commanded not only to reject the worship of foreign gods but also to refrain from uttering their names. This concise code, known as ‘the book of the covenant,’ embodies the pinnacle of legislative wisdom. Even when the names of these gods are mentioned in derisive proverbs or common curses—perhaps influenced by the Canaanite peoples—such utterances could over time lead Israel to contemplate the strength and dominion of those deities whose names were invoked.