Psalm 106:36

They worshiped their idols, which became a snare to them.

Study Bible

They worshiped
The Hebrew root for "worshiped" is "עָבַד" (avad), which means to serve or to work. In the context of ancient Israel, worship was not merely a ritualistic act but a service and devotion to a deity. This phrase indicates a turning away from the worship of Yahweh, the one true God, to serve other gods. Historically, this reflects the recurring issue in Israel's history where they adopted the religious practices of surrounding nations, contrary to God's commandments. This act of worship was not just a physical bowing but a heart posture that led to a lifestyle contrary to God's will.

their idols
The term "idols" comes from the Hebrew "עֲצַבִּים" (atsabim), which refers to graven images or false gods. In the ancient Near Eastern context, idols were often physical representations of deities made from wood, stone, or metal. These idols were believed to hold power and influence over various aspects of life. For the Israelites, the worship of idols was a direct violation of the first and second commandments, which prohibited the worship of other gods and the making of graven images. This phrase highlights the spiritual adultery of Israel, as they replaced the worship of the invisible God with tangible, yet powerless, objects.

which became a snare
The word "snare" is translated from the Hebrew "מוֹקֵשׁ" (mokes), meaning a trap or a noose. In biblical times, a snare was a device used by hunters to catch animals, symbolizing entrapment and danger. Spiritually, the idols became a snare by leading the Israelites into sin and away from God's protection and blessings. This phrase underscores the deceptive nature of idolatry; what seemed appealing and beneficial ultimately led to spiritual bondage and destruction.

to them
This phrase personalizes the consequence of idolatry, indicating that the snare was specific to the people who engaged in idol worship. It serves as a reminder that the consequences of sin are personal and direct. For the Israelites, this meant experiencing God's judgment, including defeat by enemies, exile, and loss of divine favor. The phrase "to them" emphasizes the relational aspect of sin, as it affects not only the individual but the community and their relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from Egypt but repeatedly fell into idolatry.

2. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites, where they encountered pagan nations and their idols.

3. Idols
Objects of worship that the Israelites adopted from surrounding nations, contrary to God's commandments.

4. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who warned them against idolatry.

5. Pagan Nations
The surrounding cultures in Canaan that influenced the Israelites to worship false gods.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but can be anything that takes the place of God in our lives. It becomes a snare, leading us away from true worship.

Cultural Influence
Just as the Israelites were influenced by the surrounding nations, Christians today must be vigilant against cultural pressures that lead us away from God.

Spiritual Vigilance
We must constantly examine our hearts and lives to ensure that nothing becomes more important than our relationship with God.

Obedience to God's Commands
Following God's commandments protects us from the snares of idolatry and keeps us aligned with His will.

Repentance and Restoration
When we fall into idolatry, repentance is crucial. God is faithful to restore us when we turn back to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "idols" that can become snares in a believer's life, and how can we identify them?

2. How does the account of the Israelites' idolatry in Canaan serve as a warning for us today?

3. In what ways can cultural influences lead us away from God, and how can we guard against this?

4. How does the New Testament reinforce the Old Testament's teachings on idolatry?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our worship remains focused on God alone, and how can we help others do the same?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
The Ten Commandments, where God explicitly commands against idolatry.

Judges 2:11-15
Describes how the Israelites repeatedly turned to idols, leading to their oppression.

1 Corinthians 10:14
Paul warns the Corinthians to flee from idolatry, showing its relevance to New Testament believers.

Deuteronomy 7:25-26
God instructs the Israelites to destroy the idols of the nations they conquer to avoid being ensnared.

Romans 1:21-23
Paul explains how humanity exchanged the glory of God for images, leading to spiritual downfall.