11 A woodcutter may saw down a small tree, then peel off the bark and skillfully make something worthwhile from the wood.
12 Some of the leftover wood may be used for a cooking fire,
13 while a crooked and knotty piece may be carefully carved into the shape of a human
14 or of some useless animal, before being painted red to cover all its flaws.
15 A special shelf is made on the wall, and the idol is fastened to the shelf with metal nails
16 to keep it from falling, because the one who made it realizes that it is merely a helpless idol.
17 Then—without shame—its maker prays to this lifeless idol for help with finances, marriage, or family.