Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Overview:Idolatry, in biblical terms, refers to the worship of idols or the excessive reverence for or devotion to anything other than God. It is considered a grave sin and an abomination to God, as it violates the first and second commandments given to the Israelites. Idolatry is not limited to the worship of physical idols but extends to any form of allegiance or devotion that replaces or diminishes the worship due to God alone. Biblical References: 1. The Ten Commandments: The prohibition against idolatry is explicitly stated in the Ten Commandments. In Exodus 20:3-5 , God commands, "You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in the heavens above, on the earth below, or in the waters beneath. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God..." 2. Warnings Against Idolatry: Throughout the Old Testament, the Israelites are repeatedly warned against idolatry. In Deuteronomy 4:23-24 , Moses cautions, "Be careful not to forget the covenant of the LORD your God that He made with you; do not make for yourselves an idol in the form of anything He has forbidden you. For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God." 3. Consequences of Idolatry: The Bible describes severe consequences for idolatry, including divine judgment and exile. In 2 Kings 17:12-15 , it is recorded, "They served idols, although the LORD had told them, 'You shall not do this thing.' Yet the LORD warned Israel and Judah through all His prophets and seers, saying, 'Turn from your evil ways and keep My commandments and statutes...' But they would not listen and stiffened their necks... They rejected His statutes and His covenant... and they followed worthless idols, and themselves became worthless." 4. Prophetic Condemnation: The prophets frequently condemned idolatry, emphasizing its futility and the betrayal it represents. Isaiah 44:9-11 states, "All makers of idols are nothing, and the things they treasure are worthless. Their witnesses fail to see or comprehend, so they are put to shame. Who fashions a god or casts an idol which profits him nothing?" 5. New Testament Perspective: The New Testament continues to denounce idolatry, expanding its definition to include covetousness and other forms of misplaced devotion. In 1 Corinthians 10:14 , Paul advises, "Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry." Similarly, in Colossians 3:5 , he writes, "Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry." Theological Implications: Idolatry is fundamentally a theological issue because it challenges the sovereignty and exclusivity of God. It represents a breach of the covenant relationship between God and His people, as it attributes divine honor and worship to created things rather than the Creator. The biblical narrative consistently portrays idolatry as a root cause of spiritual and moral decay, leading to a separation from God and His blessings. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, idolatry was prevalent, with various cultures worshiping a pantheon of gods represented by physical idols. The Israelites, surrounded by these cultures, were often tempted to adopt idolatrous practices. The biblical injunctions against idolatry served to distinguish the Israelites as a people set apart for the worship of the one true God. Contemporary Relevance: While modern society may not engage in idol worship in the traditional sense, the concept of idolatry remains relevant. Anything that takes precedence over God in one's life—be it wealth, power, status, or even relationships—can be considered a form of idolatry. The biblical call to reject idolatry and remain faithful to God is a timeless exhortation for believers to examine their priorities and devotion. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 7:25The graven images of their gods shall you burn with fire: you shall not desire the silver or gold that is on them, nor take it to you, lest you be snared therein: for it is an abomination to the LORD your God. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 27:15 Deuteronomy 32:16 Library A Statement in vindication of the Doctrine of the Apostles as ... The Fall of Solomon Pride of Prosperity A Kingdom's Epitaph The Way of Life and the Way of Death. Jeroboam Concerning Private Festivals. The Knowledge that God Is, Combined with the Knowledge that He is ... The Danger of Deviating from Divine Institutions. The Old and New Testaments have Many Things in Common -- Far More ... Resources What is an abomination? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the abomination of desolation? | GotQuestions.org What is the Queen James Bible? | GotQuestions.org Abomination: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Abomination to God: Lying With a Woman in Her Menses Abomination to God: Offering Children in Sacrifice Abomination to God: Offering Seed to Molech Abomination to God: Sorcery and Necromancy Abomination to God: The Hire of a Whore and Price of a Dog, As a Consecrated Gift Abomination to God: Uncleanness Abomination to God: Unjust Weights and Measures Abomination: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |