151. Destroying Idols

Avodas Kochavim 7:1

There is a Torah obligation to destroy idols, their accessories, and everything that is made for their service, as per Deuteronomy 12:2 (“You must surely destroy all the places where the nations... served their idols”) and Deuteronomy 7:5 (“…you shall tear down their altars”). In Israel, one is required to seek out idolatry until it is eradicated from the land. Outside of Israel, we need not actively look for it. However, upon conquering a place, we must destroy the idols found there. This is based on Deuteronomy 12:3: “You shall destroy their name from this place,” meaning Israel. This teaches us that idols must only be sought out in Israel, not elsewhere.

Avodas Kochavim 7:2

We are not permitted to benefit from idols, their accessories, offerings made to them, or anything else made for their service as per Deuteronomy 7:26, “Do not bring an abomination into your home.” Anyone who derives benefit from these things receives two sets of lashes: one for violating the prohibition of “Do not bring an abomination...” and a second for violating the prohibition of “Let nothing of the condemned property remain in your possession” (Deuteronomy 13:18).