Exodus 34:17Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

One should not create for oneself gods from metal or other materials. Consider that Moses prohibited the crafting of images to prevent idolatry, highlighting the impossibility of representing the boundless, indescribable, and unseen God. As he stated, “For His image has not been seen” (Deuteronomy 4:12). Similarly, Paul declared in the Areopagus, “Therefore we, being the offspring of God, ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold, or silver, or stone, shaped by human art and imagination” (Acts 17:29).

Refer to the second commandment found in chapter 20 and take note of the fourth verse.