Idolatrous

The adjective 'idolatrous' describes a behavior, belief, or practice characterized by the worship of idols. It signifies excessive devotion, reverence, or adoration directed toward something other than the one true God (in a religious context) or, more broadly, an object or person. The term implies a misplaced or excessive form of love or admiration, elevating something to a position of undue importance, often to the detriment of other values or relationships. This can manifest as unquestioning obedience, fanatical zeal, or the sacrifice of other priorities in service to the adored object or person. It also suggests a level of obsession or fixation, and can lead to the neglect of moral or ethical considerations. Ultimately, an idolatrous person is placing an unmerited emphasis on that which is being revered.

Idolatrous meaning with examples

• The ancient civilizations often practiced idolatrous rituals, building elaborate temples and offering sacrifices to statues of their gods. This involved treating these crafted images with the reverence usually reserved for the divine, dedicating time, resources, and lives to their worship. They believed that the gods, if appeased, would bring them good fortune. They constructed the temples believing that their deities lived there. Their whole society revolved around their idolatrous beliefs in various gods and goddesses.
• Some critics viewed the celebrity culture as becoming idolatrous, with fans displaying an excessive admiration for actors, musicians, and other public figures. This idolization often took the form of obsessive behavior, such as relentless pursuit, purchasing of excessive merchandise, and the prioritization of following the celebrities' every move. They seemed to sacrifice their own wellbeing, time, and mental state for a fleeting chance to interact with the idol.
• During periods of political unrest, some leaders employed propaganda and cultivated a personality cult, which encouraged the people to be idolatrous, in a bid to consolidate power. They would portray themselves as infallible or god-like, demanding unwavering loyalty. The propaganda aimed to convince the population to accept their actions without question, thereby reducing criticism, opposition and dissent, creating an atmosphere of blind faith. It became a requirement to support the leader.
• For some, the pursuit of wealth can become an idolatrous obsession, where accumulating money and possessions becomes the central focus of their lives. They neglect their relationships, ethical standards, and personal well-being in the single-minded pursuit of financial gain. Their lives are then defined and valued by their material net worth. The constant hunger for more, never satisfied, consumes their time and thoughts.