Habakkuk 2:18
What profiteth the graven image that the maker thereof hath graven it; the molten image, and a teacher of lies, that the maker of his work trusteth therein, to make dumb idols?
Habakkuk 2:18 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Habakkuk in the Bible questions the logic behind idol worship. The prophet Habakkuk is questioning the usefulness of graven or molten images that people create and then trust in as if they have power. The verse suggests that these idols are nothing more than "teachers of lies," as they cannot speak or act on behalf of their creators. By placing their trust in these idols, people are essentially relying on something false and powerless. The verse serves as a reminder to focus on the true and living God rather than putting faith in man-made objects. It challenges believers to seek a deeper understanding of their faith and not be swayed by false idols that offer no real profit or value.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Habakkuk in the Old Testament of the Bible speaks to the futility of trusting in idols and false gods. The prophet Habakkuk questions the value of graven images and molten idols that people create and worship. The term "graven image" refers to a carved idol or representation of a deity, while a "molten image" is typically made of metal that has been melted and molded into a form. In this verse, the creator of these idols is described as a "teacher of lies" because they are putting their faith in something that has no power or real substance. The verse serves as a reminder to trust in the one true God and not to rely on man-made idols that are ultimately powerless and deceptive. It emphasizes the importance of placing our trust in the Almighty instead of in false gods or idols that we create with our own hands.
Habakkuk 2:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
What profiteth the graven image, that the maker thereof hath graven it; the molten image, even the teacher of lies, that he that fashioneth its form trusteth therein, to make dumb idols?
World English Bible
“What value does the engraved image have, that its maker has engraved it; the molten image, even the teacher of lies, that he who fashions its form trusts in it, to make mute idols?
Douay-Rheims
What doth the graven thing avail, because the maker thereof hath graven it, a molten, and a false image? because the forger thereof hath trusted in a thing of his own forging, to make dumb idols.
Geneva Bible (1599)
What profiteth the image? for the maker thereof hath made it an image, and a teacher of lies, though he that made it, trust therein, when he maketh dumme idoles.