24

Not to inquire into idolatry

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

We are forbidden from investigating idolatry and looking into its content, i.e. researching and studying the fantasies and foolishness that its founders claim, [for example,] "This spiritual force can be brought down in this way, and then you must do this; this star you must offer incense to, stand before it in this way, and then do this," and so on. Thinking into these matters and investigating these fantasies can cause a foolish person to pursue them and worship them.

This mitzvah forbids turning one’s attention to idolatry in any form, whether through inquiry, study, or fascination. Even curiosity about how idolaters worship is prohibited, as it may lead to interest, imitation, or weakened faith. The Torah commands us to focus solely on Hashem’s service, guarding our minds and hearts from influences that distance us from Him.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

  • Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 2:2): It is forbidden to even think about idolatry, much less investigate its practices.
  • Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 213): The root is to protect faith, since human nature is influenced by what one contemplates.
  • Talmud (Sanhedrin 63b): States that one who even inquires into idolatry transgresses, for the Torah warns against “turning” to it.
(Source: Chabad.org)
אַל־תִּפְנוּ֙ אֶל־הָ֣אֱלִילִ֔ם וֵֽאלֹהֵי֙ מַסֵּכָ֔ה לֹ֥א תַעֲשׂ֖וּ לָכֶ֑ם אֲנִ֖י יְהֹוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶֽם׃ - פָּרָשַׁת קְדשִׁים
Leviticus 19:4 - "You shall not turn to the worthless idols, nor shall you make molten deities for yourselves. I am the L-rd, your G-d."

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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Thought - מַחֲשָׁבָה

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Relates to internal intentions, beliefs, and mindfulness in performing mitzvot or avoiding transgressions.

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Speech - דָּבָר

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Pertains to the power of speech—both positive and negative—including lashon hara, vows, and blessings.

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