Skip to content

Idol Quote by Saint Augustine

“Idolatry is worshipping anything that ought to be used, or using anything that is meant to be worshipped.” quote by Saint Augustine
Download Open image
“Idolatry is worshipping anything that ought to be used, or using anything that is meant to be worshipped.”

Saint Augustine

About This Quote

Source Treatise: On Christian Doctrine, 5th century

Idolatry misplaces reverence on objects rather than their intended purpose, leading to misuse.

In simple terms: Worshipping the wrong thing.

Key Takeaway

Use things for their true purpose.

Themes

faith misuse spirituality

Mood

reflective serious

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • religious practice
  • personal decisions
  • cultural critique

Key Concepts

idolatry purpose ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What objects do you treat as ends rather than means?
  • How can you redirect reverence to proper purpose?
A Different Perspective

Even sacred objects can become idols if misapplied.

4.6 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Saint Augustine

Explore all 672 Saint Augustine quotes

More Idol quotes

Browse all 696 Idol quotes