ICONOLATRY Meaning and
Definition
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Iconolatry refers to the worship or excessive veneration of icons or images, particularly in the context of religious or spiritual practices. The term comes from the combination of two root words, "icon" and "latria," with "icon" referring to a religious image or picture, and "latria" corresponding to the Greek concept of the worship or adoration given to divine beings.
In iconolatry, the emphasis lies on the belief that the icon represents or embodies something sacred, divine, or of spiritual significance. This practice is often associated with certain religious traditions, such as those within the Eastern Orthodox Church, where the use of icons is an integral part of the spiritual experience. Adherents believe that the veneration of these religious images can facilitate a direct connection with the divine, acting as a gateway or conduit to divine presence and blessings.
Iconolatry can take various forms, ranging from a deep respect and reverence towards icons, to rituals involving the offering of prayers, incense, or even physical contact such as kissing or touching the image. It is important to note that while iconolatry involves the veneration of icons, it should not be confused with idolatry. Unlike idolatry, which involves the worship of the actual physical object as a deity, the veneration of icons in iconolatry is viewed as a means of deepening one's spiritual connection to the divine, rather than worshipping the icon itself.
Overall, iconolatry represents a specific religious or spiritual practice that places a significant value on the symbolism and power of icons as sacred objects, believing that they offer a tangible representation of the divine.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ICONOLATRY
- uconolatry
- jconolatry
- kconolatry
- oconolatry
- 9conolatry
- 8conolatry
- ixonolatry
- ivonolatry
- ifonolatry
- idonolatry
- icinolatry
- icknolatry
- iclnolatry
- icpnolatry
- ic0nolatry
- ic9nolatry
- icobolatry
- icomolatry
- icojolatry
Etymology of ICONOLATRY
The word "iconolatry" comes from the combination of two Greek roots: "eikon" meaning "image" and "latreia" meaning "worship".
The term has its origins in theological discussions and debates about the veneration or worship of religious icons in certain branches of Christianity. It specifically refers to the practice of reverencing or excessively adoring religious images or icons, often considered idolatrous by some religious groups.
Similar spelling word for ICONOLATRY
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