εἰδωλεῖον

a temple for an image

Definition

Eidōleion refers specifically to a temple, shrine, or building dedicated to housing an idol or cult image. In the New Testament, it denotes a physical location of pagan worship, distinct from the idol (eidōlon) itself. Its sole biblical occurrence in 1 Corinthians 8:10 highlights a setting where a believer might be seen participating in idolatrous activities, thus causing a 'weak' fellow Christian to stumble. The word emphasizes the institutional and architectural aspect of idol worship, not merely the object.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Corinthians 8:10. Paul employs it in a hypothetical scenario about a believer with a 'strong' conscience being seen eating in an idol's temple (en eidōleiō). The context is Paul's discussion of Christian liberty and love, where the physical location becomes a potential trap for causing a 'weak' brother to fall into sin by following the example.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek noun eidōlon (εἴδωλον, G1497), meaning 'idol' or 'image,' with the suffix -eion, which denotes a place or building. Thus, eidōleion literally means 'a place for an idol.' It is a direct and descriptive compound, clearly identifying its function in Greco-Roman society.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it touches on core issues of Christian conduct, conscience, and love. Paul uses the specific setting of an eidōleion to illustrate how even a theologically permissible action (eating food) becomes sinful when it causes another believer to violate their conscience (1 Corinthians 8:9-13). It underscores that Christian freedom is bounded by love and responsibility for the spiritual welfare of others, making the physical location a powerful symbol of potential spiritual danger.

In the 1st-century Greco-Roman world, eidōleia were common public buildings. They were not just places of sacrifice but often functioned as social and business hubs where meals were served. To 'eat in an idol's temple' (1 Corinthians 8:10) could be a routine social or guild event, not necessarily an act of deep religious devotion. This cultural reality is key to understanding Paul's argument—the 'strong' believer might see only a meal, while the 'weak' believer or an observer sees participation in idolatry.

eidōlon (G1497) — The idol/image itself, not the temple building. hieron (G2411) — A general term for a temple or sacred precinct, often used for the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem. naos (G3485) — The inner sanctuary or dwelling place of a deity, used for both pagan temples and, metaphorically, for the believer's body or the church as God's temple.

Word Details

Scripture References