### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eídōlon**, represented by `{{G1497}}`, is a term for an **idol**. It appears **11 times** in **11 unique verses**. Derived from a word meaning "image," its biblical usage refers to an image created for worship, a heathen god, or the practice of such worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1497}}` is consistently used to denote false objects of worship in direct opposition to the one true God. Believers are commanded to "abstain from pollutions of **idols**" [[Acts 15:20]] and to turn "to God from **idols** to serve the living and true God" [[1 Thessalonians 1:9]]. The New Testament clarifies the nature of an **idol**, stating that "an **idol** is nothing in the world" [[1 Corinthians 8:4]], yet warns that a person with a weak conscience can be defiled by it [[1 Corinthians 8:7]]. The book of Revelation describes unrepentant humanity worshipping **idols** made of gold, silver, brass, stone, and wood, which are powerless and "neither can see, nor hear, nor walk" [[Revelation 9:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the context surrounding idols:
* `{{G1494}}` **eidōlóthyton** (an image-sacrifice): This term specifically refers to things offered in sacrifice to **idols**, a major point of concern for the early church regarding Christian liberty and conscience ([[1 Corinthians 8:4]], 7).
* `{{G1140}}` **daimónion** (a dæmonic being): Scripture directly connects the worship of **idols** with the worship of demonic beings, showing that behind the powerless physical object lies a spiritual reality [[Revelation 9:20]].
* `{{G4352}}` **proskynéō** (to worship): This is the act of adoration directed toward an object. The failure to repent is characterized by continuing to **worship** devils and **idols** [[Revelation 9:20]].
* `{{G234}}` **alísgema** (pollution): This word is used to describe the ceremonial defilement associated with **idols**, from which Gentile believers were instructed to abstain [[Acts 15:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1497}}` is significant, highlighting the exclusivity of worship due to God alone.
* **The Emptiness of Idols:** The primary theological assertion is that an **idol** has no real existence or power in itself. It is "nothing in the world," and there is only one God [[1 Corinthians 8:4]].
* **Contrast with the Living God:** Idols are consistently contrasted with the "living God." Believers are identified as the "temple of the living God" and warned that there can be no agreement between God's temple and **idols** [[2 Corinthians 6:16]].
* **A Source of Defilement:** Association with **idols**, particularly for a believer with a weak conscience, leads to being defiled [[1 Corinthians 8:7]]. The early church was instructed to **abstain** `{{G567}}` from the pollutions associated with them [[Acts 15:20]].
* **The Works of Human Hands:** Idolatry is shown to be the act of worshipping the "works of their own hands," as when the Israelites made a calf and offered sacrifice to the **idol** [[Acts 7:41]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1497}}` defines a central conflict in scripture: the choice between worshipping lifeless, man-made images and serving the one, true, and living God. While an **idol** is ultimately nothing, its worship represents a profound spiritual error that defiles the worshipper and stands in direct opposition to God's holiness. The command to the faithful is therefore simple and direct: "Little children, keep yourselves from **idols**" [[1 John 5:21]].
TRV