An "idol-house" refers to a structure or location dedicated to the worship of idols, which are physical representations or images of deities other than the God of Israel. In the biblical context, idol-houses are often associated with pagan worship practices that were prevalent among the nations surrounding Israel. The construction and use of idol-houses were strictly prohibited for the Israelites, as they were called to worship Yahweh alone.

Biblical References:

1. Leviticus 26:1 : "You must not make idols for yourselves or set up a carved image or a sacred pillar, or place a sculpted stone in your land to bow down to it. For I am the LORD your God." This verse underscores the prohibition against creating or worshiping idols, which would include the establishment of idol-houses.

2. 1 Kings 12:28-30 : "After seeking advice, the king made two golden calves and said to the people, 'It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem. Here are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.' One calf he set up in Bethel, and the other in Dan. And this thing became a sin; the people walked as far as Dan to worship before one of the calves." This passage describes the establishment of idol-houses in Bethel and Dan by King Jeroboam, leading Israel into sin.

3. 2 Kings 21:3 : "For he rebuilt the high places that his father Hezekiah had destroyed; he erected altars for Baal and made an Asherah pole, as Ahab king of Israel had done. He also bowed down to all the host of heaven and served them." King Manasseh's actions included the restoration of idol-houses, which were places of worship for Baal and other deities, directly opposing the worship of Yahweh.

4. Jeremiah 19:5 : "They have built high places to Baal to burn their children in the fire as offerings to Baal—something I never commanded or mentioned, nor did it ever enter My mind." This verse highlights the extreme practices associated with idol-houses, where detestable acts such as child sacrifice were performed.

Theological Significance:

Idol-houses represent a direct violation of the first and second commandments, which emphasize the exclusive worship of Yahweh and the prohibition of idolatry (Exodus 20:3-4). The presence of idol-houses in Israel often led to spiritual adultery, drawing the people away from their covenant relationship with God. The prophets frequently condemned the establishment and use of idol-houses, calling the people to repentance and a return to the worship of the one true God.

Historical Context:

Throughout the Old Testament, the Israelites were surrounded by nations that practiced idolatry, often in elaborate temples or idol-houses. These structures were central to the religious and cultural life of these peoples, serving as places for rituals, sacrifices, and festivals dedicated to their gods. The temptation to adopt these practices was a recurring challenge for Israel, leading to periods of apostasy and divine judgment.

Cultural Impact:

The existence of idol-houses in Israel often led to syncretism, where elements of pagan worship were blended with the worship of Yahweh. This mixing of religious practices diluted the purity of Israel's faith and compromised their witness to the surrounding nations. The biblical narrative consistently portrays idol-houses as symbols of rebellion against God and a departure from His commandments.

Moral and Ethical Implications:

The biblical condemnation of idol-houses serves as a warning against the dangers of idolatry in any form. For believers, it underscores the importance of maintaining fidelity to God and avoiding the worship of anything that might take His rightful place in their lives. The call to destroy idol-houses and return to the worship of Yahweh alone is a recurring theme in the prophetic literature, emphasizing the need for repentance and spiritual renewal.

John iv. 13, 14
... Wherefore I exhort you to abstain from these Satanic assemblies; [855] for if it
is not lawful to enter into an idol's house, much less to Satan's festival. ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily xxxii john iv 13.htm

Idol-house (1 Occurrence)
Idol-house. Idolatry, Idol-house. Idolize . Multi-Version
Concordance Idol-house (1 Occurrence). 1 Corinthians 8:10 ...
/i/idol-house.htm - 6k

Idolatry (14 Occurrences)

/i/idolatry.htm - 21k

Idolize (1 Occurrence)

/i/idolize.htm - 7k

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