To say what idolatry is is definitely very difficult, because even objects, statues, boards, pillars, statues that a person ex alts can already be considered idols of the material world. And what is the opinion on this topic among different religions of the world? In general, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Judaism and various forms of paganism are similar in opinion. They do not particularly welcome this approach, and for them idolatry (a religion based on the worship of many gods) is unacceptable.
The Creator has neither form nor body, and therefore all his images are just an interpretation of the human mind. You can draw people, but you should not give them an excessive mystical or cult meaning. Any ex altation of objects eventually leads to ritual veneration and, accordingly, violates the meaning and meaning of worshiping the Almighty.
Idolatry in Buddhism and Islam: what is the difference?
Theme: "Man and Religion" is relevant for people of all continents. For example, in India, where the vast majority of the country's inhabitants profess Buddhism, this issue is relevant for almost everyone. And despitea huge number of divine images and statues they have, they do not worship them, but the one to whom they are dedicated. For them, these objects are only intermediaries.
As far as Islam is concerned, everything is much more complicated here. This creed does not accept any images of the Creator; its followers have no idols. Of the material objects in this religion, there is only one connecting thread with the Creator, and this is a stone located in Mecca.
Idolatry is the cornerstone of Christianity
Christianity has a very subtle approach to the subject of idolatry. A religion based on the worship of many gods entered here neatly and veiled, at least so some opponents of the traditional church believe. They do not understand why she welcomes the veneration of paintings in the form of icons, statues, chairs, bones and other attributes of divine themes, because the ex altation of objects and images to the rank of sacred is strictly prohibited by Scripture. But ministers and parishioners do not see any catch in this. And the thing is that believers do not treat them like idols or gods.
In Greek, the word "icon" means "image". And therefore, it is unacceptable to consider them gods or idols, this is only an image of God, Angels, saints. Praying before a face close to the heart, a person does not turn to a material object, expressed graphically and artistically through metal, wood, paint. His petition or inner confession is dedicated to the one depicted on the icon. Everyone knows it's easierconvey the thought to the Almighty when you see his cross or the most pure image. Using such a light "guide" is much more pleasant than being content with empty walls.
Protestants, Pagans and Idolatry
Considering idolatry in Christianity, the Protestants noted that some of its directions have lost their original connection with the Creator. And all this happened because of their violation of their own Holy Scriptures, where it is clearly stated many times that it is impossible to worship anything material, to ex alt images, objects created by man. But Christians, in their defense, speak of something else, for example, icons are given to people so that they reverently resurrect in memory the deeds of God, as well as the deeds of the Saints. Sacred images are like books, only here faces act as textual content.
Pagan idolatry - a religion based on the worship of many gods - breaks all records for the number of accusations against it. The followers of this creed are most of all accused of worshiping idols. But the truth is that, unfortunately, not all adherents of paganism can adequately distinguish and distinguish between an appeal to a wooden pillar and a prayer to the Creator.
Here and now do not make yourself an idol
Frequent change of priorities in society has a very detrimental effect on a person as an individual. Today, for many, money, power, popularity, worldly goods, position in society have become idols and idols. Undoubtedly, this becomes the reason for the gradualdegradation of the population of different countries. The role of faith in this case is very great, regardless of religion or denomination. At present, the issue of increasing the importance and significance of cultural and spiritual values over material manifestations has reached the Rubicon. This can also include the proper attitude to the institution of the family, the relationship between parents and children.
The substitution of spiritual values for base ones, subject to animal instincts, has become most noticeable with the advent of such concepts as "sex symbol", "my idol" and the like. It was during this period that a simple worker began to be ridiculed, and priority reverence moved, for example, to a singer, model, boxer or fashionable football player. Such overreverence for material values, craving for fame, worship led to the degeneration and humiliation of the moral laws of life.
To come to a balance and eliminate the distorted perception of the world, it is important for everyone to think about whether he lives according to his conscience, whether he follows the right path. It becomes increasingly clear to the conscious person how idolatry has transformed and evolved. A religion based on the worship of many gods has taken on new modern forms, which it is important to see in the bud. In this case, a person already faces a conscious choice, and does not wander like a blind man. He understands what is good for him, recognizes what is being imposed, and clearly sees what can be safely abandoned. Good luck!
