idol worship
Definition
Noun: 1. The worship of idols: The religious practice of showing reverence, devotion, or adoration to physical idols or images, often considered to be a form of polytheism or a deviation from the worship of a single, formless deity. 2. The worship of images that are not God: Specifically denotes the veneration of man-made statues, figures, or icons as divine or as representations of divine beings, which is prohibited in some major monotheistic religions.
Usage Examples
- The ancient civilization's religion was characterized by elaborate idol worship.
- Some religious reformers preached against idol worship, calling for a return to spiritual devotion without physical icons.
- The term is often used in a historical or comparative religious context to describe certain polytheistic practices.
Advanced Usage
- The concept can be extended metaphorically in modern contexts to describe excessive admiration for celebrities or material objects, though this is a figurative use and not the primary definition of the term itself.
- Example: The critic lamented the modern idol worship of fame and fortune.
Variants and Related Words
- Idolatry (noun): A direct synonym for idol worship, often carrying a stronger negative connotation of being a false or sinful practice.
- Idolater (noun): A person who engages in idol worship.
- Idolatrous (adjective): Characterized by or involving idol worship.
Synonyms
- Iconolatry
- Fetishism (in specific anthropological/religious contexts)
- Image worship
Related Phrases
- Cult of the image: A phrase describing a system of idol worship.
- To practice idolatry: The verbal phrase meaning to engage in idol worship.
Noun
-
the worship of idols; the worship of images that are not God
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