Deuteronomy 16:22

“Neither shalt thou set up any image, etc.] Graven or molten, of man, beast, fish, or fowl; the word signifies a “statue or pillar” f187 which was set up for idolatry; for, as Aben Ezra observes, what was not set up for idolatry was not forbidden, as when erected in memory of any action or remarkable event; (see <062210>Joshua 22:10), etc. which the Lord thy God hateth; as he does every species, of idolatry, or that has any tendency to it; it being so opposite to his being, perfections, and glory; and therefore nothing should be done like it, because it is so hateful to him.”

“Neither shalt thou set thee up any image--erroneously rendered so for "pillar"; pillars of various kinds, and materials of wood or stone were erected in the neighborhood of altars. Sometimes they were conical or oblong, at other times they served as pedestals for the statues of idols. A superstitious reverence was attached to them, and hence they were forbidden. Next: Deuteronomy Chapter 17”

“These verses are closely connected in subject with the following chapter, and introduce certain directions for the administration of justice and the carrying on of the civil government of the people in Canaan. During the lifetime of Moses, he himself, especially inspired and guided by God, was sufficient, with the aid of the subordinate judges (compare Exodus 18:13 ff), for the duties in question. But now that Moses was to be withdrawn, and the people would soon be scattered up and down the land of Canaan, regular and permanent provision must be made for civil and social order and good government. Deuteronomy 16:21 A grove ... - Render, Thou shalt not plant for thee any tree as an idol:…”

“image: or, statue, or pillar, Exo 20:4; Lev 26:1 which: Deu 12:31; Jer 44:4; Zac 8:17; Rev 2:6, Rev 2:15 Next: Deuteronomy Chapter 17”

“They were also to abstain from setting up any mazzebah, i.e., any memorial stone, or stone pillar dedicated to Baal (see at Exo 23:24). Next: Deuteronomy Chapter 17”