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.

complete verse (Jeremiah 51:17)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of Jeremiah 51:17:

  • Kupsabiny: “Everyone who has no wisdom is foolish,
    the crafted things bring shame to the craftsman
    because the idols he makes are useless,
    who have no life at all.” (Source: Kupsabiny Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “The-(ones) who are-worshipping gods are senseless and without knowledge. The silversmiths will-be- only -put-to-shame by their gods, for this (are) not true. They have- no -life.” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)