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On Idolatry

Tertullian · c. 211 AD

48 min read
Ante-Nicene

A rigorous treatise on the many subtle forms of idolatry in Roman society, arguing that Christians must avoid all participation in pagan worship, trades, and customs.

Table of Contents

1Wide Scope of the Word Idolatry2Idolatry in Its More Limited Sense. Its Copiousness3Idolatry: Origin and Meaning of the Name4Idols Not to Be Made, Much Less Worshipped. Idols and Idol-Makers in the Same Category5Sundry Objections or Excuses Dealt with6Idolatry Condemned by Baptism. To Make an Idol Is, in Fact, to Worship It7Grief of the Faithful at the Admission of Idol-Makers into the Church; Nay, Even into the Ministry8Other Arts Made Subservient to Idolatry. Lawful Means of Gaining a Livelihood Abundant9Professions of Some Kinds Allied to Idolatry. Of Astrology in Particular10Of Schoolmasters and Their Difficulties11Connection Between Covetousness and Idolatry. Certain Trades, However Gainful, to Be Avoided12Further Answers to the Plea, How Am I to Live?13Of the Observance of Days Connected with Idolatry14Of Blasphemy. One of St. Paul's Sayings15Concerning Festivals in Honour of Emperors, Victories, and the Like. Examples of the Three Children and Daniel16Concerning Private Festivals17The Cases of Servants and Other Officials. What Offices a Christian Man May Hold18Dress as Connected with Idolatry19Concerning Military Service20Concerning Idolatry in Words21Of Silent Acquiescence in Heathen Formularies22Of Accepting Blessing in the Name of Idols23Written Contracts in the Name of Idols. Tacit Consent24General Conclusion