GOLDEN CALF Meaning and
Definition
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The term "golden calf" refers to an idol or an object of worship that is made of gold or appears to be made of gold. Derived from biblical origins, the phrase holds both literal and figurative meanings.
In a literal sense, "golden calf" originates from the biblical story in the Book of Exodus, where the Israelites, led by Moses, created an idol of a golden calf while waiting for him atop Mount Sinai. The golden calf served as a replacement for the absent Moses as their spiritual intermediary, symbolizing their idolatry and deviation from the true worship of God.
Figuratively, the term "golden calf" is used to describe an object, idea, or pursuit that is excessively valued, worshipped, or idealized, often at the expense of true principles or moral values. It signifies the elevation of materialism, greed, or indulgence to a position of utmost importance or prime focus. This notion often implies a prioritization of worldly desires over spiritual or ethical considerations.
The concept of a "golden calf" can also extend beyond religious contexts and into other areas, such as politics, where it indicates a charismatic figure who is idolized or revered despite their shortcomings or unethical behavior. Moreover, it can allude to any symbolic representation of misplaced priorities or false idols that distract individuals or societies from pursuing what is truly valuable or virtuous.
Common Misspellings for GOLDEN CALF
- folden calf
- volden calf
- bolden calf
- holden calf
- yolden calf
- tolden calf
- gilden calf
- gklden calf
- gllden calf
- gplden calf
- g0lden calf
- g9lden calf
- gokden calf
- gopden calf
- gooden calf
- golsen calf
- golxen calf
- golcen calf
- golfen calf
Etymology of GOLDEN CALF
The term "golden calf" originates from the biblical story found in the Book of Exodus in the Old Testament of the Bible. According to the story, when Moses ascended Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments from God, the Israelites grew impatient and asked Aaron, Moses' brother and high priest, to make them a god to worship. Aaron collected their gold earrings and fashioned a golden calf for them to worship.
The etymology of the phrase "golden calf" comes primarily from the English translation of the Hebrew Bible, specifically from the Book of Exodus. The original Hebrew term used is "עֵגֶל מַסֵּכָה", transliterated as "Egel Mashekhah". The term "Egel" means "calf", while "Mashekhah" is often translated as "molten" or "cast".
Idioms with the word GOLDEN CALF
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a golden calf
The idiom "a golden calf" refers to an object, idea, or practice that is excessively revered, valued, or worshipped to the point of becoming idolized or obsessive. The term originates from the biblical story in which the Israelites, while waiting for Moses to come down from Mount Sinai, created a golden calf to worship as their god. Thus, "a golden calf" symbolizes misplaced devotion or excessive attachment to worldly possessions or ideals.
Similar spelling words for GOLDEN CALF
- golden fig,
- golden ager,
- golden larch,
- golden algae,
- golden spleen,
- golden plover,
- golden age,
- golden oldie,
- golden shiner,
- golden mean,
- Golden Potto,
- golden state,
- golden glow,
- golden fleece,
- golden star,
- golden syrup,
- golden gram,
- Golden Pothos,
- golden fern,
- golden aster,
- golden years,
- golden wattle,
- golden willow,
- golden rain,
- goldenseal,
- golden mole,
- golden cup,
- golden rule,
- goldeneye,
- golden stars,
- golden calla,
- golden eagle,
- golden thread,
- golden pea,
- golden warbler,
- goldenrod,
- golden horde,
- golden club,
- golden seal,
- golden oriole,
- golden boy,
- golden yarrow,
- golden gate,
- golden chain.
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