Idolatry, understood as the worship of other gods or images, is a central concept in Judaism and Christianity. In the Torah, the commandments expressly prohibit the worship of idols: “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). In biblical antiquity, this practice was even punishable by death, according to Deuteronomy 17:2–5, among the people of Israel.
Later Jewish tradition maintained the prohibition of idolatry as one of the Seven Noahide Commandments, applicable to all humanity. However, in current practice, no Jewish authority applies civil penalties for idolatry. It is considered a theological and ethical issue, not a legal one. Radical contemporary interpretations have used this framework to make controversial statements, but they do not represent official policy.
In Catholicism, the Catechism teaches that idolatry is “deifying what is not God” (CCC 2113). It is considered a grave sin that separates the believer from God, but it carries no civil or physical penalties. The Second Vatican Council reaffirmed religious freedom and ruled out any forcible imposition of faith.
A topic of contemporary debate is the role of the Pope. Officially, the Church teaches that worship belongs only to God (latria). The Pope is owed respect and obedience as the successor of Peter, but not divine worship. However, popular practices such as kissing the ring or mass acclamations have led some critics to speak of "papolatry," that is, excessive devotion that can be confused with idolatry.
Within the Church, there is an insistence that the Pope is "the servant of the servants of God" and that his authority is always understood in reference to Christ. Francis himself has warned that the papal figure should not be idolized, but rather accompanied in prayer and service to the Gospel.