Christian Iconoclasm

Christian Iconoclasm refers to a movement within Christianity that opposes the veneration of religious images or icons. This belief emerged primarily in the Eastern Orthodox Church during the 8th and 9th centuries, spurred by concerns that the worship of images could lead to idolatry, where people might revere the image rather than the divine. The movement led to significant debates and conflicts, resulting in the destruction of many icons. Iconoclasm emphasizes a more spiritual understanding of worship, focusing on the faith itself rather than physical representations.