Iconoclast Controversy

The Iconoclast Controversy was a significant conflict in the Byzantine Empire during the 8th and 9th centuries regarding the use of religious images, or icons. Some people, known as iconoclasts, believed that worshipping icons was idolatrous and wanted to destroy them. Others, called iconodules, argued that icons were important for teaching and expressing faith. This disagreement led to intense political and religious strife, including edicts and upheaval. Ultimately, the use of icons was reaffirmed in 843, marking a turning point for the Orthodox Church, which celebrated this decision as the "Triumph of Orthodoxy" and shaped religious practices for centuries.