Bible Dictionaries
Figured Stone

Holman Bible Dictionary

An idol of carved stone (NIV) in contrast to one of molten metal, associated with Canaanite worship (Leviticus 26:1; Numbers 33:52 ), according to modern translations. KJV reads, “image of stone” and “pictures.” The same Hebrew term is used in Ezekiel 8:12 for idolatrous shrines decorated with base reliefs of gods in the form of animals ( Ezekiel 8:10; prohibited in Deuteronomy 4:17-18 ). Various identifications of the animals have been suggested, beasts similar to the lions and serpent-dragons of the “Ishtar Gate” in Babylon, animals similar to those serving as mounts for the gods in stone carvings at Maltaya, Egyptian mortuary deities, and totem animals.