Topical Bible: Iconoclasm: Destroyed by Jacob

◄ Iconoclasm: Destroyed by Jacob ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Iconoclasm, the rejection or destruction of religious images and icons, finds its roots in the biblical narrative, particularly in the actions of the patriarch Jacob. This entry explores the biblical account of Jacob's iconoclastic actions and their theological implications.

Biblical Account

The account of Jacob's iconoclasm is found in Genesis 35. After God commands Jacob to go to Bethel and build an altar, Jacob instructs his household to rid themselves of foreign gods. Genesis 35:2-4 states: "So Jacob told his household and all who were with him, 'Get rid of the foreign gods that are among you. Purify yourselves and change your garments. Then let us arise and go up to Bethel, where I will build an altar to God, who answered me in my day of distress. He has been with me wherever I have gone.' So they gave Jacob all their foreign gods and all their earrings, and Jacob buried them under the oak near Shechem."

Jacob's actions here are significant for several reasons. First, they demonstrate a clear rejection of idolatry, aligning with the monotheistic worship of Yahweh. By burying the foreign gods, Jacob symbolically and physically distances his family from the idolatrous practices that were prevalent in the surrounding cultures.

Theological Implications

Jacob's destruction of idols underscores the biblical theme of exclusive devotion to the one true God. This act of iconoclasm is a precursor to the First Commandment, "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3), and the prohibition against idolatry that permeates the Old Testament. Jacob's actions serve as a model for the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of purity and faithfulness in worship.

Furthermore, Jacob's iconoclasm can be seen as an act of covenant renewal. By purging his household of idols, Jacob reaffirms his commitment to the God of his fathers, Abraham and Isaac. This act of purification is a necessary step before he can fulfill God's command to build an altar at Bethel, a place of significant spiritual encounter and revelation.

Historical Context

In the ancient Near East, the worship of multiple deities and the use of idols were common. Jacob's family, having lived in Mesopotamia and among the Canaanites, would have been exposed to these practices. The removal and burial of idols signify a break from these influences and a return to the worship of Yahweh alone.

Jacob's iconoclastic actions prefigure later reforms in Israel's history, such as those undertaken by kings like Hezekiah and Josiah, who also sought to eradicate idolatry from the land. These reforms highlight the ongoing struggle against idolatry and the call to maintain the purity of worship.

Iconoclasm in Christian Thought

In Christian theology, iconoclasm has been a topic of significant debate, particularly during the Byzantine Iconoclasm of the 8th and 9th centuries. However, Jacob's actions are often cited as an early biblical example of the rejection of idolatry, reinforcing the principle that worship should be directed solely to God without the mediation of images or idols.

Jacob's iconoclasm serves as a reminder of the call to spiritual purity and the rejection of anything that might detract from the worship of God. His actions reflect a foundational biblical truth that continues to resonate in Christian teaching and practice.

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Genesis 35:2-4
Then Jacob said to his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments:
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