55

Not to derive benefit from ornaments of idols

The Luchos - Ten Commandments
מִצְוָה עֲשֵׂה - Positive Commandment
מִצְוָה לֹא תַעֲשֶׂה - Negative Commandment
Idolatry – עֲבוֹדָה זָרָה

It is forbidden to derive any benefit from idolatrous accoutrements, such as jewelry used to adorn an idol or the idol's gold plating.

This mitzvah forbids coveting, taking, or deriving benefit from the precious metals, ornaments, or decorative coverings of idols. Although such materials may appear valuable, they are sanctified to impurity and represent abomination. By forbidding their use, the Torah ensures that no trace of honor or attraction toward idolatry remains, and that holiness is not tainted by its remnants.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

  • Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 7:4): Even melted-down ornaments of idols are prohibited, as the Torah warns that their allure can ensnare.
  • Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 438): The root is to cut off any possibility of benefiting from or being drawn to idols through their wealth.
  • Talmud (Avodah Zarah 52b): Clarifies that the prohibition extends not only to direct use but even to trade or indirect profit from these items.
(Source: Chabad.org)
פְּסִילֵ֥י אֱלֹהֵיהֶ֖ם תִּשְׂרְפ֣וּן בָּאֵ֑שׁ לֹֽא־תַחְמֹד֩ כֶּ֨סֶף וְזָהָ֤ב עֲלֵיהֶם֙ וְלָקַחְתָּ֣ לָ֔ךְ פֶּ֚ן תִּוָּקֵ֣שׁ בּ֔וֹ כִּ֧י תוֹעֲבַ֛ת יְהֹוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ הֽוּא׃ - פָּרָשַׁת עֵקֶב
Deuteronomy 7:25 - "The graven images of their gods you will burn with fire; you shall not covet the silver or gold that is upon them and take it for yourself, lest you be ensnared by it, for it is an abomination to the Lord, your God."

This Mitzvah's Fundamentals

Idolatry - עֲבוֹדָה זָרָה

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Mitzvot that prohibit worship of false gods and practices associated with idol worship.

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Holiness - קְדֻשָּׁה

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Represents the concept of  spiritual intentionality, purity, and sanctity—set apart for a higher purpose.

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Faith - אֱמוּנָה

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