שְׂכִיָּה
a conspicuous object
Definition
The Hebrew noun שְׂכִיָּה (sᵉkîyâh) refers to a conspicuous or prominent object, specifically a carved image or picture. In its sole biblical occurrence in Isaiah 2:16, it is used in parallel with 'ships of Tarshish' to describe objects of human pride and arrogance that will be humbled on the day of the Lord. The term implies something skillfully crafted and visually striking, intended to be seen and admired. While the KJV translates it simply as 'picture,' the context suggests a crafted, idol-like image representing human achievement.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Isaiah 2:16. It appears in a prophetic oracle against human pride, listing the 'ships of Tarshish' and the 'pictures of desire' (sᵉkîyâh) as symbols of worldly splendor and arrogance that will be brought low. The usage is poetic and metaphorical, grouping it with other proud human constructions within a judgment context.
Etymology
Derived from the root שָׂכָה (śāḵâ), meaning 'to look' or 'to behold.' It is a feminine noun formed from the same source as שֵׂכוּ (śēḵû, H7906), which means 'a looking' or 'observation.' The word inherently carries the sense of something made to be looked at, a visual spectacle or conspicuous object.
Semantic Range
Though used only once, this word is theologically significant as it encapsulates the theme of idolatry of human achievement. In Isaiah 2:6-22, it represents the proud works of human hands that rival God's glory. Understanding it as a 'conspicuous object' of desire enriches the reading of God's judgment on human pride and self-sufficiency, contrasting transient human glory with the enduring majesty of the Lord alone.
In the ancient Near East, crafted images (whether idols, royal portraits, or decorative art) were potent symbols of power, wealth, and religious devotion. A 'conspicuous object' like a sᵉkîyâh would be a public display of status. Isaiah's prophecy subverts this, declaring that such symbols of human cultural achievement are ultimately subject to God's judgment.
פֶּסֶל (pesel, H6459) — a carved idol or graven image, more explicitly cultic. תְּמוּנָה (tᵉmûnâ, H8544) — a form, likeness, or representation, often used for mental images or visions. צֶלֶם (ṣelem, H6754) — an image or likeness, used for idols and also for humanity made in God's image.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
Full methodology & sources →