To say that such idolatry is definitely very difficult, because even objects, sculptures, boards, poles, statues that a person exalts, 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 idolatry (a religion based on the worship of many gods) is unacceptable to them.
The Creator has neither a form, nor a body, and therefore all his images are just an interpretation of the human mind. You can draw people, but do not give them too much mystical or religious meaning. Any exaltation of objects ultimately leads to ritual veneration and, accordingly, violates the meaning and meaning of worship of the Almighty.
Idolatry in Buddhism and Islam: what are the differences?
Theme: "Man and Religion" is relevant for people of all continents. For example, in India, where the overwhelming majority of the country's inhabitants profess Buddhism, this question is relevant for almost everyone. And despite the huge number of divine images and statues that they have, they worship not them, but the one to whom they are dedicated. For them, these objects are only intermediaries.
As for Islam, everything is much more complicated here. This creed does not accept any images of the Creator, his followers lack 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 - the cornerstone in Christianity
Christianity is very subtle on a topic such as idolatry. Religion, based on the worship of many gods, penetrated here neatly and covertly, at least as some opponents of the traditional church believe. They don’t understand why she welcomes the veneration of paintings in the form of icons, statues, armchairs, bones, and other attributes of divine themes, because the exaltation of objects and images in 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.
Translated from Greek, the word "icon" means "image." And therefore it is unacceptable to consider them gods or idols, this is only the image of God, Angels, saints. Praying before a person 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 in the icon. Everyone knows that it is easier to convey a thought to the Almighty when you see his cross or the Pure image. To use such a bright “conductor” is much more pleasant than to be content with empty walls.
Protestants, Gentiles, and Idolatry
Considering the idolatry in Christianity, Protestants noted that some of its directions lost their original connection with the Creator. And all this happened due to their violation of their own scriptures, which clearly stated repeatedly that one should not worship anything material, to magnify images, objects created by man. But Christians in their defense say otherwise, for example, icons were given to people, so that they reverently resurrected the deeds of God, as well as the deeds of the Saints. Sacred images are like books, only here are the faces as the textual content.
Pagan idolatry - a religion based on the worship of many gods - breaks all records in the number of accusations against it. The followers of this religion are most accused of worshiping idols. And the truth is that, unfortunately, not all adherents of paganism can adequately distinguish and distinguish between addressing a pillar of wood from 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, idols and idols have become money, power, popularity, worldly goods, position in society. Of course, this becomes the cause of the gradual degradation of the population of different countries. The role of faith in this case is very great, regardless of religion or denomination. Currently, the issue of increasing the importance and significance of cultural and spiritual values over material manifestations has reached the Rubicon. This also includes the proper attitude to the institution of the family, the relationship of parents and children.
The substitution of spiritual values for the base, subordinate to animal instincts, became most noticeable with the advent of concepts such as “sex symbol”, “my idol” and the like. It was during this period that a simple worker began to make fun of it, and priority worship went, for example, to a singer, model, boxer or fashionable footballer. Such over-esteem of material values, craving for fame, worship led to the degeneration and derogation of the moral laws of life.
In order to come to a balance and eliminate the distorted perception of the world, it is important for everyone to think about whether he lives in conscience or whether he follows the path. It is becoming increasingly clear to the conscious person how idolatry was transformed and evolved. Religion, based on the worship of many gods, has put on new modern forms that are important to see in the bud. In this case, the person is already facing a conscious choice, and not wandering like a blind man. He understands what is good for him, recognizes that he is being imposed, and clearly sees what he can safely refuse. Good luck!