Icons in the Theology of the Orthodox Church and the Problem of Idolatry: Towards a Transcendental Theology of Revelation.

Abstract

Icons in the Orthodox Church (OC) are highly esteemed due to their role in the revelation of a reality beyond. But at the same time, they are met and treated as idols by members of those denominations which do not use icons. Terming this practice as idol worship, it becomes very hard to members of the OC to practice their faith as expected. It is on this premise that this research is carried out, aimed at presenting this attitude of those denominations that do not use icons as well as presenting the understanding - and the role of icons in the OC. To do this the research will show that the Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) perceive icons as idols hence condemn the OC as idolaters. The understanding of the OC is that, icons are symbols that participate in revelation by triggering the mind of the viewer to transcend in order to get a revelation that is beyond. This research is aimed at helping those who accuse them the OC of idolatry, to appreciate the role icons play by stating what exactly they are. By the end of this research, the reader should have a different understanding of what icons are in place of worship hence stopping treating them as idols.