05-28-2019, 08:59 PM
(05-27-2019, 02:41 PM)Dana Wrote: There is quite a remarkable section from Prager's Exodus book covering the concept of false gods and idolatry. Chapter 20 is a long essay. But to quote what I think is the core of idolatry from the chapter.
"When anything is made an end in itself, rather than as a means to G-d and goodness (as defined, most especially, by the Ten Commandments), it is a false god...Therefore, in order for a thing or an idea to truly be a false god, people must not only make it an end in itself, they must believe it is a worthy and noble thing to live for. Genuine false gods are therefore often beautiful things people come to venerate as ends in and of themselves-things such as education, art, and even love and religion."
I think that is a pretty good definition.
One can make anything a "false god". It's okay to have a passion for something, but if it consumes your life too much, it probably isn't too healthy.
Then again, there are those who dedicate their whole lives to certain things and can help make the world a better place by doing so.
Good question with a not so definitive answer!