Concept in Definition ABC

An idol is that image, representation or person who is worshiped as if it were a divinity. Therefore, the concept of idolatry can be understood in the context of the religion or to margin her.

In its religious sense

There are many references to this concept in the Bible and it usually presents a connotation negative. In the sacred texts idolatry is understood as the veneration of false idols. Thus, when men turn away from the true god and honor any other figure, Christianity understands it as a deviation from the authentic love towards god. In the Bible it is stated that you cannot idolize another figure other than God.

The story of the Golden Calf during the exodus of the Israelite people exemplifies the condemnation of any form of worship that is not God-oriented.

Regardless of the religious context

Although idolatry has its origin in the Abrahamic religions, this concept has been transferred to other non-religious dimensions. In the political sphere, certain leaders become true idols of the masses or saviors of the country.

This phenomenon fits with figures like Perón, Napoleon, Mao, Stalin... In relation to these characters there was a clear phenomenon of idolatry: large masses followed them as if they were not human beings like any other and were attributed qualities and gifts outside the normal. In the context of what artistic or cultural The same pattern is also repeated, as great artists or athletes become idols of the masses, who venerate them for their extraordinary qualities.

In the language Non-religious idolatry is called mythomania and it also has a negative connotation, as it makes you one of the flock that follows the idolized character.

Idolatry from the point of view of psychology

A sacred animal, a venerated image or an admired character have the same mental mechanism behind them: the human being needs a superior being to guide his actions and project their desires, in this way they find shelter in gods, people or animals on which an ideal of perfection is projected that makes them optimal to be our guide or reference vital.

Photos: Fotolia - Curioso / Inna Felker