What types of idols does this commandment refer to? It encompasses any representation of a creature, whether celestial or terrestrial, or one that dwells in the waters, that is worshipped and revered in place of God. Are there individuals who engage in the worship of such images? Indeed, there are, including those who do not believe in the true God, referred to as pagans. As Christians, we worship and serve our God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, while others devote themselves to lifeless idols. The adoration and service of these idols is vanity and sin. An idol is not God; it is not only a non-deity but also a false representation of something that does not exist at all. Hence, an idol cannot aid humanity regardless of the reverence shown towards it. The idol is nothing, and thus it is futile to worship or honor it. We must revere the one true God, seeking the living God.
How do we regard sacred images and holy icons? We honor them through acts of veneration; we kiss them, bow our heads and knees before them, light candles, and offer incense. This veneration is because these icons depict the true God who manifested in the flesh, His pure Mother, and His holy servants. While we respect holy icons, we do not worship them. If we were to worship the icons, we would be transgressing the second commandment of God, akin to idolaters. We do not believe that an icon possesses divinity or that it can save us by itself; rather, icons serve as reminders of God, His deeds, and His chosen ones. When we behold an icon with our physical eyes, we mentally envision and commune with the person it represents. By venerating the sacred image of the Mother of God, we honor Her, the Queen of Heaven. Without the icons of the saints, we would lack the necessary visual aids for our spiritual learning, much like being without the Divine Scriptures. Through icons, as through books, we learn and remember what is essential for our salvation. As we look upon the icons of the saints, pray before them, and honor them, let our thoughts be directed toward God and the saints they depict—understand that we pray to God and His saints, honoring and worshiping them.
What else can be included under the concept of idols, which the commandments sometimes prohibit? Idols may represent anything that captivates our heart excessively—things we love so much that we neglect God, disregard His commandments, and forget to love and trust in Him. If one is overly indulged in satisfying carnal desires—gluttony, excessive drinking, or sensual pleasures—such appetites become one's idol, leading them to sin against the second commandment like an idolater. If money becomes an all-consuming obsession, leading you to prioritize wealth over worship and fellowship, then riches become your idol. Similarly, if you elevate yourself above others and cultivate pride and vanity, you become your own idol, with your arrogance taking precedence. Indeed, anything that is overly cherished can transform into an idol, compelling us to forsake attachment to worldly, transient things. It is essential to remember that nothing earthly, sensual, or temporary holds true value; these attachments may lead us to forget God and abandon His commandments.
Thus, do not make anyone or anything your idol. Everything is empty and lacking value, save for God and His divine essence.
THEOSIS