Are toys graven images?
Crazy, right? Well, I've discovered that many christians believe that the 2nd commandment prohibits any representation of anything in heaven, the earth, or the seas, and this includes toy dolls, toy animals, nick-knacks in the house, busts, statues, etc. some go further and say it prohibits paintings, pictures, drawings, etc.
The argument is simple - the 2nd commandment contains two elements. First, not to make any likeness. Second, not to bow down to or worship said likenesses. They say the prohibited thing is prohibited, regardless of what a person does to or with it. They say the command is not to make graven images, and also (second part) to not use them as objects of worship. Thus, if a person makes a graven image, but does not worship it or bow down to it, they still are violating the second commandment, just as a person who worships an idol, but does not MAKE an idol, is violating the commandment.
So then, for example, a toy farm set with farmer, his wife, and animals, is forbidden, not because they are 'idols' and are 'worshipped', but because they are graven images which are forbidden.
Does anyone have any relevant thoughts on this? Are they right? Wrong? Is there a BIBLE answer to the question?
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