### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eidōlolatreía**, represented by `{{G1495}}`, defines **image-worship**, which can be understood either literally or figuratively as **idolatry**. It appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is formed from the words εἴδωλον (image) and λατρεία (worship), signifying the act of rendering honor to an image.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1495}}` is presented as a sin to be avoided. Believers are commanded to "flee from **idolatry**" [[1 Corinthians 10:14]]. It is listed among the works of the flesh, alongside sins like witchcraft and hatred [[Galatians 5:20]]. The term is also used to describe past behavior, such as walking in "abominable **idolatries**" before coming to faith [[1 Peter 4:3]]. Furthermore, it is given a figurative meaning, where covetousness is explicitly identified as **idolatry** [[Colossians 3:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{G1495}}`, illustrating the broader context of sins from which believers are to abstain:
* `{{G4124}}` **pleonexía** (covetousness): This word for avarice or greediness is explicitly equated with **idolatry**, highlighting how desire for worldly things can become a form of worship [[Colossians 3:5]].
* `{{G5331}}` **pharmakeía** (witchcraft): Listed with **idolatry** as a work of the flesh, this term for medication or magic points to forbidden spiritual practices that draw people away from God [[Galatians 5:20]].
* `{{G4202}}` **porneía** (fornication): Often listed with **idolatry**, this word for harlotry can also be used figuratively for **idolatry**, indicating spiritual unfaithfulness [[Colossians 3:5]].
* `{{G2189}}` **échthra** (hatred): This term for hostility or enmity is another work of the flesh associated with **idolatry**, showing that turning from God leads to a breakdown in relationships [[Galatians 5:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1495}}` is significant, defining it as a foundational sin against God.
* **A Work of the Flesh:** **Idolatry** is categorized as a work of the flesh, placing it in direct opposition to a life led by the Spirit [[Galatians 5:20]].
* **Expanded Definition:** Scripture expands the concept beyond literal image-worship. **Covetousness** `{{G4124}}`, the desire for more, is explicitly called **idolatry**, framing it as a sin of the heart and its desires [[Colossians 3:5]].
* **A Clear Danger:** The command to "flee from **idolatry**" underscores its incompatibility with the Christian faith and its serious threat to one's relationship with God [[1 Corinthians 10:14]].
* **A Former Way of Life:** It is described as part of the "will of the Gentiles," a pattern of life that believers have left behind, signifying a clear break from a past defined by such practices [[1 Peter 4:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1495}}` denotes more than the worship of physical images. It is presented as a grave sin that includes internal attitudes like **covetousness** and is fundamentally incompatible with a life of faith. The scriptural command to flee from **idolatry** and its inclusion in lists of condemned "works of the flesh" establish it as a core deviation from the worship of the one true God.
TRV