On Idolatry

Tertullian of Carthage · c. 211 AD

Ante-Nicene Fathers (Roberts–Donaldson), Roberts, Donaldson, and Coxe (eds.), Ante-Nicene Fathers, Buffalo: Christian Literature Publishing, 1885–1887; digitized by CCEL.

Quintus Septimius Florens Tertullianus; the first great Latin Christian writer. A North African of Carthage, trained in rhetoric and law; coined much of the Latin theological vocabulary the West later inherited (Trinitas, persona, substantia). His pre-Montanist works are widely cited and respected; his later embrace of the New Prophecy (Montanism) places him outside the catalogue of formally venerated saints, though he is treated honourably as a witness and theologian.

Contents

1. Wide Scope of the Word Idolatry.
2. Idolatry in Its More Limited Sense. Its Copiousness.
3. Idolatry: Origin and Meaning of the Name.
4. Idols Not to Be Made, Much Less Worshipped. Idols and Idol-Makers in the Same Category.
5. Sundry Objections or Excuses Dealt with.
6. Idolatry Condemned by Baptism. To Make an Idol Is, in Fact, to Worship It.
7. Grief of the Faithful at the Admission of Idol-Makers into the Church; Nay, Even into the Ministry.
8. Other Arts Made Subservient to Idolatry. Lawful Means of Gaining a Livelihood Abundant.
9. Professions of Some Kinds Allied to Idolatry. Of Astrology in Particular.
10. Of Schoolmasters and Their Difficulties.
11. Connection Between Covetousness and Idolatry. Certain Trades, However Gainful, to Be Avoided.
12. Further Answers to the Plea, How Am I to Live?
13. Of the Observance of Days Connected with Idolatry.
14. Of Blasphemy. One of St. Paul's Sayings.
15. Concerning Festivals in Honour of Emperors, Victories, and the Like. Examples of the Three Children and Daniel.
16. Concerning Private Festivals.
17. The Cases of Servants and Other Officials. What Offices a Christian Man May Hold.
18. Dress as Connected with Idolatry.
19. Concerning Military Service.
20. Concerning Idolatry in Words.
21. Of Silent Acquiescence in Heathen Formularies.
22. Of Accepting Blessing in the Name of Idols.
23. Written Contracts in the Name of Idols. Tacit Consent.
24. General Conclusion.
25. Elucidations.