Definition of idolatry

The word "idolatry" originates from the Old English words "idol" meaning "image" and "writrist" meaning "worship". The term was first used in the 9th century to describe the act of worshiping or revering images, statues, or other objects as gods or deities. In biblical contexts, idolatry referred specifically to the worship of false gods or idols, which was considered a grave sin and a rejection of the one true God. Historically, the term has been used to describe various forms of paganism and polytheism, where people worshipped multiple deities or spirits. Today, the term is often used more broadly to describe the act of placing excessive value or reverence on something or someone, whether it be an object, a person, or an idea.