The spelling of the word "Iconolater" can be traced to its Greek roots. The word is derived from "eikon" meaning image and "latris" meaning worshipper. The phonetic transcription of the word is [aɪˈkɒnəleɪtə]. The first syllable "i" is pronounced as "ai", followed by "con" and stressed "o". The final syllable has a short "a" sound followed by "le", which is pronounced as "lay". The word refers to someone who worships or venerates images or icons, particularly in a religious context.
An iconolater refers to an individual who engages in the veneration or worship of icons, specifically within the realm of religious practice. The term draws its etymological roots from the combination of two Greek words: "eikon" meaning "image" and "latria" meaning "worship" or "adoration".
Iconolater predominantly pertains to the context of Christian religious devotion, particularly within the Orthodox Church. It entails the veneration of religious images, typically depicting saints, biblical figures, or scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. As such, an iconolater is one who reveres and pays homage to these religious representations through acts of devotion, meditation, and prayer.
The veneration of icons has a long history within Christian tradition, dating back centuries. For iconolaters, these sacred images are regarded as powerful mediators connecting the divine realm to the earthly plane. They are believed to possess a spiritual presence and can be used as focal points for spiritual contemplation.
However, the term iconolater can also be employed more broadly to refer to someone who excessively idolizes or holds great admiration for individuals, objects, or ideas in various realms beyond religious practice. In this sense, it characterizes an individual who exhibits profound reverence or obsession towards a particular individual, often elevating them to an almost iconic or idolized status.
One who worships images.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word Iconolater is derived from two Greek roots, eikon meaning image and latria meaning worship. The term originated in the English language in the early 17th century, borrowed from the Greek word eikonolatres, which also means one who worships images.