[antceecee]

Yes it is...cultural traditions that carried over as Christianity spread throughout the world. Peoples in these regions did use symbols they were familiar with in translating the new word the way of Christ. Look at this through the prism of art history... Pretty obvious.

[caww]

So your saying that all the symbolism and relics are simply ‘a matter of art’ only within the catholic church?

I tend to think you're mistaken when you hear and see how these are worshiped and bowed to by members, as well as the Popes continuously leading the church to emphasize these as they practice these rites/rituals and 'use' these symbols in their worship. God clearly warns against creating any idol before which anyone should bow.... It goes without saying that the countless 'images' of Mary strewn throughout Catholic churches all over the world are most assuredly shrines of idolatry since thousands of times a day Catholics over the world break the commandment of God by bowing before these images in worship.

[Elsie]

Look at this through the prism of art history...

I'd rather use the BIBLE's 'prism'.

“Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image”

[CynicalBear]

See post 467