pe.sil denotes cult images associated with worship, condemnation, removal, or destruction in the biblical passages.

The term consistently denotes cult images: objects that people serve or honor, that are associated with other worship practices, and that are burned, crushed, defiled, or visited in judgment. Both the singular form in Judges 18:17 and the plural forms elsewhere identify such objects rather than a separate range of meanings.

1. Cult images in worship and judgment scenes · dominant

   The plural forms occur with actions directed toward these objects: in Deuteronomy 7:25 the APB renders their burning with fire and warns against taking the silver or gold on them; in 2 Chronicles 34:4 it renders their being broken, crushed, and scattered. They also stand in worship settings, as 2 Kings 17:41 renders nations serving them, while Isaiah 21:9 renders Babylon's images shattered to the ground. The singular absolute form in Judges 18:17 is listed among objects taken from a shrine setting.

   Deuteronomy 7:252 Chronicles 34:42 Kings 17:41Isaiah 21:9Judges 18:17Psalm 78:58

In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB commonly renders the forms as “idols,” while some verses use “carved images” or “images.” These variations confirm the verse contexts rather than establishing separate meanings.