Exodus 20:5

You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on their children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me,

Study Bible

You shall not bow down to them or serve them
This phrase is a direct command against idolatry, emphasizing the physical acts of worship such as bowing and serving. The Hebrew word for "bow down" is "שָׁחָה" (shachah), which implies a deep reverence or submission. In the ancient Near Eastern context, bowing was a common act of worship towards deities or kings, signifying allegiance and servitude. The prohibition here underscores the exclusivity of worship that is due to Yahweh alone, rejecting any form of idolatry that was prevalent among Israel's neighbors.

for I, the LORD your God
This phrase establishes the authority and identity of the speaker, Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. The use of "LORD" in all caps represents the tetragrammaton "יהוה" (YHWH), the personal name of God revealed to Moses. It signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature and His unique relationship with Israel. The phrase "your God" personalizes this relationship, reminding the Israelites of their chosen status and the covenantal bond that obligates them to exclusive worship.

am a jealous God
The term "jealous" is derived from the Hebrew "קַנָּא" (qanna), which conveys a sense of zealous protection over what is rightfully one's own. In the context of a covenant relationship, God's jealousy is not petty or insecure but rather a righteous demand for faithfulness. It reflects God's passionate commitment to His people and His intolerance of divided loyalty. This divine jealousy is akin to the protective love of a spouse, desiring fidelity and devotion.

visiting the iniquity of the fathers on their children
The word "visiting" comes from the Hebrew "פָּקַד" (paqad), which can mean to attend to, punish, or oversee. This phrase addresses the consequences of sin, particularly idolatry, which can affect subsequent generations. It highlights the communal and generational impact of sin, where the moral and spiritual failures of one generation can influence the next. This is not about unjust punishment but rather the natural repercussions of a broken covenant relationship.

to the third and fourth generations
This expression is a Hebrew idiom indicating the extent of the consequences of sin. In ancient Israelite society, family units often spanned multiple generations living together, and the actions of one generation could have lasting effects on the community. The mention of "third and fourth generations" underscores the seriousness of idolatry and its potential to disrupt the covenantal blessings intended for God's people.

of those who hate Me
The phrase "those who hate Me" refers to individuals who reject God's commandments and choose idolatry over faithfulness to Yahweh. In biblical terms, "hate" is not merely an emotional state but an active opposition to God's will and ways. This phrase serves as a stark warning against the spiritual adultery of idolatry, which is seen as a direct affront to God's love and covenant. It calls the Israelites to examine their hearts and remain steadfast in their devotion to the one true God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His relationship with Israel.

2. Israelites
The recipients of the Ten Commandments, God's chosen people, who were delivered from Egypt and are being instructed on how to live in covenant with God.

3. Mount Sinai
The location where God gave Moses the Ten Commandments, including this commandment against idolatry.

4. Idols
Objects of worship that are forbidden by God, representing false gods and leading people away from true worship.

5. Generational Consequences
The concept that the sins of one generation can affect subsequent generations, particularly in the context of idolatry and disobedience to God.

Teaching Points

God's Jealousy
Understand that God's jealousy is not like human jealousy; it is a righteous desire for His people to worship Him alone, reflecting His love and commitment to them.

Idolatry's Consequences
Recognize the serious consequences of idolatry, not only for individuals but for future generations, and the importance of breaking cycles of sin.

Generational Influence
Consider how our actions and faithfulness to God can impact our families and communities positively or negatively.

Personal Responsibility
While generational sin is a reality, each person is responsible for their own relationship with God and can choose to follow Him.

Avoiding Modern Idolatry
Identify and reject modern forms of idolatry, such as materialism, power, or anything that takes precedence over God in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's jealousy help us appreciate His desire for a relationship with us?

2. In what ways can idolatry manifest in our lives today, and how can we guard against it?

3. How can we break negative generational patterns and establish a legacy of faithfulness to God?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we are personally accountable for our relationship with God, despite our family background?

5. How can we apply the principle of fleeing from idolatry in our daily decisions and priorities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 5:9
Reiterates the command against idolatry and the consequences of generational sin, emphasizing God's jealousy and justice.

Numbers 14:18
Highlights God's character as both just and merciful, visiting iniquity but also abounding in steadfast love.

Ezekiel 18:20
Clarifies individual responsibility for sin, indicating that each person is accountable for their own actions.

Psalm 78:8
Warns against being a stubborn and rebellious generation, illustrating the importance of obedience to God.

1 Corinthians 10:14
Encourages believers to flee from idolatry, applying the principle of avoiding false worship in the New Testament context.