Question
Why do we use the term ‘image’ rather than common terms like ‘idol’ or ‘icon’? The latter two terms are considered pejorative in the context of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, whose orthodox sects condemn ‘idolatry’ or the worship of ‘idols’ or ‘icons’.
India’s classical texts used words like murti, vigraha, pratima, rupa, etc., to designate images, often statues, used for worship in temples or homes. In English, ‘image’ is a neutral term.

Answer

The term ‘image’ is used because ‘idol’ and ‘icon’ have negative meanings in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which condemn idolatry. Indian classical texts use neutral words like murti or pratima for statues used in worship, so ‘image’ is a neutral term that avoid connotations and respects the cultural context.

Need a full question paper?

Generate a complete, print-ready paper with questions like this in minutes — across 16+ boards, with answer keys.

Start Generating Free