2 Kings 17:12 - Exposition

For they served idols ; rather, and they served idols . The sense flows on from 2 Kings 17:7 , each verso being joined to the preceding one by the vav connective. Gillulim , the term translated "idols," is a word rarely used, except by Ezekiel, with whom it is common. "It contains," as Bahr says, "a subordinate contemptuous and abusive signification;" the primary meaning of galal being "dung," "ordure." Whereof the Lord had said unto them, Ye shall not do this thing (see Exodus 20:4 , Exodus 20:5 , Exodus 20:23 ; Deuteronomy 4:16-18 , etc.).