How Do You Spell THEOLATRY?

1. Theolatry is a noun that refers to the excessive reverence or worship of a theological concept or religious doctrine. It can be understood as a form of religious idolatry, wherein the focus shifts from the spiritual essence or divine being to the abstraction of a specific theological concept.

   This term combines the Greek words "theos," meaning "god," and "latreia," meaning "worship." Theolatry can be observed in individuals or religious communities that become so preoccupied with the intellectual understanding and rigid adherence to theological ideas that they lose sight of the true essence of their faith or the larger spiritual significance of their beliefs.

   When theological concepts are elevated to the point of theolatry, they often become absolute authorities, overruling other aspects of religious observance and practice. This worship of ideas can impede the development of a holistic spiritual experience and limit the individual's capacity for personal growth and religious exploration.

   It is important to note that the term theolatry does not negate the significance of theology or religious doctrine itself. Rather, it serves as a caution against elevating these concepts above the spiritual core of a religious tradition. Theolatry ultimately reminds believers and scholars to approach theology with humility, recognizing its role as a means to deepen religious understanding rather than a substitute for genuine spiritual connection or practical compassion.

Common Misspellings for THEOLATRY

The word "theolatry" is derived from two components: "theo-" and "-latry".

The prefix "theo-" is derived from the Greek word "theos", meaning god or deity. It is commonly used in various words relating to religion or the divine, such as "theology" (the study of God or religious belief) or "theocracy" (a system of government in which priests or religious leaders hold power).

The suffix "-latry" is derived from the Greek word "latreia", meaning worship or service. It often signifies devotion, adoration, or religious worship in various words related to belief systems or practice, such as "idolatry" (the worship of idols) or "symbolatry" (the worship of symbols).