Idolatry Quote by Samuel Johnson
““The cherubim were never intended as an object of worship, because they were only the appendices to another thing. But a thing is then proposed as an object of worship, when it is set up by itself, and not by way of addition or ornament to another thing.Stillingfleet’sDefence of Discourses on Romish Idolatry.””
About This Quote
The passage argues that cherubim serve as decorative elements, not objects of worship; worship should focus on the primary entity, not its embellishments.
In simple terms: Cherubim are ornamental, not worshipped.
Key Takeaway
Worship should target the core, not adornments.
Themes
theology
iconography
religious practice
symbolism
hierarchy
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
theological
historical
When to use this quote
- interpreting religious art
- designing worship spaces
- teaching doctrine
- analyzing iconography
Key Concepts
idolatry
objectification
contextual meaning
Practical Applications
- guiding theological education
- informing liturgical design
Questions to Reflect On
- What distinguishes a symbol from an object of worship?
- How does context affect the sacredness of an image?
