idol / idols

The Hebrew, Greek and Latin that is translated as “idol(s)” in English is translated in Central Subanen as ledawan or “images.” (Source: Robert Brichoux in OPTAT 1988/2, p. 80ff. )

In German, typically the term Götze is used. Originally this was used as a term of endearment for Gott (“God” — see here ), later for “icon” and “image, likeness.” Luther started to use it in the 16th century in the meaning of “false god, idol.”

Other terms that are used in German include Götzenbild(er) (“image[s] of idols”) or Bildnis (“image” — Protestant) / Kultbild (“cultish image” — Catholic) (used for instance in Exodus 20:4 and Deuteronomy 5:8). The latest revision of the Catholic Einheitsübersetzung (publ. 2016) also uses the neologism Nichtse (“nothings”) in 1 Chron. 16:26 and Psalm 96:5. (Source: Zetzsche)

See also worthless idols.

Translation commentary on Psalm 135:15 - 135:17

In these verses the psalmist describes the pagan idols as completely powerless and ineffective, in contrast with the all-powerful Yahweh, the God of Israel. For translation suggestions regarding idols see 31.6; 96.5; 106.38; 115.4. The nations refers, of course, to foreign nations, and must sometimes be rendered “the nations that do not worship you.” The work of men’s hands is sometimes translated as “they are things that people make.” Verses 15-17a repeat the thought and the language of 115.4-6a. Verse 17b has no parallel in 115.4-8; the meaning of nor is there any breath in their mouths is that the gods of the other nations are lifeless, inert, dead (see Biblia Dios Habla Hoy “They even have no life!”). The Hebrew has “mouth”; there is no need to change the text, as New English Bible does, to “nostril” (see Hebrew Old Testament Text Project).

Quoted with permission from Bratcher, Robert G. and Reyburn, William D. A Handbook on the Book of Psalms. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1991. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .