Bible Dictionary
Graven image
A graven image was a carved idol or household deity made for false worship. The law condemned such images because Israel was to worship the Lord alone.
Definition
A graven image was a carved image or wooden household deity associated with idolatrous worship. The term refers to an object made or used as a representation of a false god or household tutelary deity.
Biblical Usage
The biblical references condemn the making or honoring of graven images. They are associated with idolaters and with the false worship forbidden to Israel.
Historical Background
The supplied material states that nations and cities had their own gods, while individual families could possess separate household or tutelary gods.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Deut. 27:15; Ps. 97:7 (Heb. pesel), refers to the household gods of idolaters. “Every nation and city had its own gods...Yet every family had its separate household or tutelary god.”