Significance of Idol

In Indian history, the term "idol" has two significant meanings. Firstly, it denotes the object used by a faithless wife for her prayers to wish harm upon her husband, known as the Potter. Secondly, it refers to divine representations that are installed in sacred places such as Hardwar and Mathura, where worshippers come to seek blessings. These interpretations highlight the cultural and religious significance of idols in Indian tradition.1
gallery thumb

Synonyms: Deity, Celebrity, Star, Hero, Role model, Champion, Paragon, Exemplar

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

The concept of Idol in local and regional sources

History Books

The keyphrase "Idol" signifies a dual concept: it represents both the object of a faithless wife's harmful prayers toward her husband and the divine images worshipped in sacred sites like Hardwar and Mathura.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England

(1) The idols are what believers are encouraged to abhor, as part of the exhortation to embrace the Christian faith.[1] (2) Wilbrord aimed to destroy the idols and erect churches, hoping to have relics of saints to place in them, dedicating the places to the honor of those saints.[2] (3) The objects of worship that Coifi and others wish to desecrate as they transition to the new faith.[3] (4) The false gods and deities that King Edwin promised to renounce upon his acceptance of Christianity.[4]

From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints

(1) Refers to the divine representation installed at places like Hardwar and Mathura.[5]

From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas

(1) The object the faithless wife uses for her prayers to wish harm upon her husband, the Potter.[6]