Bible Dictionary

Idolatry

The worship of idols or the giving of worship to anyone or anything other than God.

Quick Reference

Total Entries

516

Entry Position

252 of 516

Letter

I

Meaning

The worship of idols or the giving of worship to anyone or anything other than God.

Key Scriptures

  • Exodus 20:3-5
  • Deuteronomy 4:15-19
  • 1 Kings 11:4-10
  • Psalm 115:4-8
  • Isaiah 44:9-20
  • 1 Corinthians 10:14
  • Galatians 5:19-21
  • 1 John 5:21

Also Called

idol worship

Original Language

Greek

εἰδωλολατρία

eidōlolatria

idolatry

Meaning

Idolatry is the worship of idols or the giving of worship to anyone or anything other than God.

Biblical Usage

In Scripture, idolatry refers to the worship of idols, false gods, or anything that takes the place of God.

It is consistently condemned throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

Key References

  • Exodus 20:3-5
  • Deuteronomy 4:15-19
  • 1 Kings 11:4-10
  • Psalm 115:4-8
  • Isaiah 44:9-20
  • 1 Corinthians 10:14
  • Galatians 5:19-21
  • 1 John 5:21
  • Idol
  • False God
  • Worship
  • Image
  • Baal

Study More

Continue your Bible study by exploring related Scriptures, dictionary terms, and connected topics.

Scriptures

  • Exodus 20:3-5
  • Deuteronomy 4:15-19
  • 1 Kings 11:4-10
  • Psalm 115:4-8
  • Isaiah 44:9-20
  • 1 Corinthians 10:14
  • Galatians 5:19-21
  • 1 John 5:21

Related Terms

idol false god worship image

Study Topics

idolatry worship idols false gods