[Mrs. Don-o]

Your opinion is that bowing, incense, veneration of holy objects, places, etc. is idolatry or paganism. Actually, all these things are solidly Biblical practices--- as long as they do not convey adoration of a false god, but rather, a secondary respect for a holy or honorable person (or place or thing), within a primary worship for the True and Only God of Israel.

It all sdepends on intent. If I say your baby girl is adorable, it does not mean I worship her as a goddess. If I say I venerate the memory of our WWII dead, it does not mean that I think our soildiers are equal to the Almighty.

It is imjpossible to "inadvertently" adore someone or something in an idolatrous way. It is always the deliberate intent which governs the meaning of the act.

I've already referenced the fact that Ark was incensed, anointed with oil, and so forth (gestures of veneraton.) Here’s where the confusion comes in. What’s forbidden is bowing or incensing or anointing in adoration of an object; not bowing etc. as a sign of honor or respect. Can I show that Biblically? Absolutely. It permeates Old Testament culture.

[aMorePerfectUnion]

Sorry Mrs d,

What occurred with the Ark was commanded. It is not an example that applies to idols.

Bowing in adoration of idols, as well as other practices is wrong, but happens.