Idolatrous is an adjective that refers to anything related to or characterized by idolatry, which is the worship or devotion towards idols or images. The term can also describe practices, beliefs, or behaviors that are regarded as idolatry.
Idolatry itself is the religious practice of worshipping or veneration of idols, idols being physical representations or images of gods, deities, or any object believed to have spiritual significance. Thus, idolatrous denotes actions that involve such religious worship or devotion towards these literal or symbolic representations.
Metaphorically, idolatrous can also describe excessive admiration, reverence, or devotion to someone or something other than a deity or religious object. It signifies the idolization or worshipful adoration of a person, ideal, or idea, often to a degree that surpasses rationality or is considered excessive or misguided.
For instance, in a religious context, idolatrous practices are considered sinful by some monotheistic religions like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, as they believe in the worship of a single god and consider the veneration of any other deities or idols as idolatrous. Additionally, idolatrous behavior can extend to the excessive devotion or fixation on celebrities, material possessions, or even ideologies.
In summary, idolatrous pertains to the worship, devotion, or veneration of idols or symbolic representations in religious practices. It can also encompass the excessive admiration or devotion to someone or something, beyond what is considered rational or reasonable.
