This verse from Wisdom of Solomon 14:16 speaks about the development of idolatry and how it becomes institutionalized. Let's break it down:
"Afterward the ungodly custom, in process of time grown strong...": This describes how an initially impious (ungodly) practice, like worshipping idols, gradually gains popularity and becomes entrenched over time. This suggests a gradual erosion of true religious belief and a slow acceptance of something that was initially considered wrong.
"...was kept as a law...": This indicates that the practice of idolatry, once a custom, eventually becomes formally recognized and enforced, almost like a legal requirement.
"And by the commandments of princes the graven images received worship.": This is the key point. The rulers (princes) themselves begin to command the worship of graven images (idols). This means that idolatry is not just a popular custom, but an officially sanctioned and enforced act. The power of the state is used to promote and compel the worship of idols.
In essence, the verse is condemning how rulers abuse their authority to promote idolatry, turning a formerly disapproved practice into a compulsory act of worship through their commands and decrees. It highlights the dangers of political power being used to enforce false religion.
This verse from Wisdom of Solomon 14:16 speaks about the development of idolatry and how it becomes institutionalized. Let's break it down:
"Afterward the ungodly custom, in process of time grown strong...": This describes how an initially impious (ungodly) practice, like worshipping idols, gradually gains popularity and becomes entrenched over time. This suggests a gradual erosion of true religious belief and a slow acceptance of something that was initially considered wrong.
"...was kept as a law...": This indicates that the practice of idolatry, once a custom, eventually becomes formally recognized and enforced, almost like a legal requirement.
"And by the commandments of princes the graven images received worship.": This is the key point. The rulers (princes) themselves begin to command the worship of graven images (idols). This means that idolatry is not just a popular custom, but an officially sanctioned and enforced act. The power of the state is used to promote and compel the worship of idols.
In essence, the verse is condemning how rulers abuse their authority to promote idolatry, turning a formerly disapproved practice into a compulsory act of worship through their commands and decrees. It highlights the dangers of political power being used to enforce false religion.
