תְּמוּנָה
something portioned (i.e. fashioned) out, as ashape, i.e. (indefinitely) phantom, or (specifically) embodiment
Definition
The Hebrew noun תְּמוּנָה (tᵉmûwnâh) refers to a form, shape, or likeness that is fashioned or made visible. In its primary sense, it denotes a concrete, visible representation, such as a carved idol or image, as strictly forbidden in the Second Commandment (Exodus 20:4, Deuteronomy 5:8). In a more abstract and positive sense, it describes a visionary form or appearance, most notably the 'form' or 'likeness' of the LORD that Moses was uniquely privileged to behold (Numbers 12:8). This range covers both prohibited physical idols and the permitted, divine manifestation of God's presence.
Biblical Usage
This word is used exclusively in the Pentateuch (Torah), with a strong concentration in Deuteronomy 4-5. Its usage consistently revolves around the theme of divine representation. In prohibitive contexts, it warns against making any 'likeness' or 'form' for idolatrous worship (Deuteronomy 4:16, 4:23, 4:25). In the exceptional positive context, it describes the direct, non-physical 'form' of God perceived by Moses (Numbers 12:8) and the lack of any visible 'form' at Sinai (Deuteronomy 4:12, 4:15).
Etymology
Derived from the root מִין (H4327, mîn), meaning 'kind' or 'species,' which implies a division or categorization. תְּמוּנָה thus carries the sense of something 'portioned out' or given a distinct, delineated form. It is closely related to תְּמוּנָה's more common parallel, תַּבְנִית (tabnîth, H8403), meaning 'pattern' or 'structure.'
Semantic Range
This word is central to Israel's theology of God and worship. It sharply distinguishes between the invisible, transcendent God who cannot be captured in any man-made 'form' (תְּמוּנָה) and the gracious God who reveals Himself in a true, non-idolatrous 'likeness' to His prophets. It underpins the biblical prohibition of idolatry (the worship of a false תְּמוּנָה) while affirming God's capacity for self-revelation (the true תְּמוּנָה seen by Moses). Understanding this term enriches reading of the Sinai covenant and the nature of prophetic revelation.
In the ancient Near Eastern context, making images (תְּמוּנָה) of deities was standard religious practice. Israel's prohibition of any 'likeness' was radically counter-cultural, asserting that the true God is fundamentally unlike the gods of the nations and cannot be controlled or contained by a physical representation. The positive use for Moses' vision also contrasts with typical pagan claims, presenting divine encounter as granted by God's sovereign choice, not manipulated through an idol.
תַּבְנִית (tabnîth, H8403) — a 'pattern,' 'model,' or 'structure,' often of something to be built (like the tabernacle), less focused on visual appearance and more on blueprint or design. פֶּסֶל (pesel, H6459) — a carved or graven 'idol' or 'image,' always with a negative, idolatrous connotation. צֶלֶם (tselem, H6754) — an 'image' or 'statue,' often used for idols but also famously for humanity made in God's 'image' (Genesis 1:26-27).
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.
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