Götzen

Götzen is a term with Germanic origins, commonly translated as "idol" or "false god." Historically, it referred to images or statues worshipped as deities, particularly in pre-Christian Germanic cultures. The concept of Götzen is often contrasted with monotheistic religions, where the worship of such idols is forbidden.

In a broader sense, "Götzen" can be used metaphorically to describe anything that is excessively admired, revered, or worshipped, even if it is not a religious object. This could include a person, an idea, or a material possession that has become the object of undue devotion or obsession. The term carries a negative connotation, implying a misplaced or misguided form of worship.

The use of "Götzen" reflects a historical and cultural understanding of idolatry. In Christian theology, for instance, the First Commandment often prohibits the worship of graven images. Therefore, the term "Götzen" is frequently employed in discussions related to religious history, comparative religion, and the critique of polytheistic or pagan practices. Its metaphorical extension allows for a critique of modern societal obsessions and misplaced values.