Icon

An icon (from Greek {{polytonic|?????}}, eikon, "image") is an image, picture, or representation; it is a sign or likeness that stands for an object by signifying or representing it, or by analogy, as in semiotics; in computers an icon is a symbol on the monitor used to signify a command; by extension, icon is also used, particularly in modern popular culture, in the general sense of symbol — i.e. a name, face, picture or even a person readily recognized as having some well-known significance or embodying certain qualities.

The Protestant Reformation

The abundant use and veneration historically accorded images in the Roman Catholic Church was a point of contention for Protestant reformers, who varied in their attitudes toward images but were unanimous in rejection of their veneration. In the consequent religious struggles many statues were removed from churches, and there was also destruction of images in some cases.

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Lutherans tended to be moderate, finding doctrinally-acceptable images unobjectionable if what was seen as the abuse of veneration were avoided; followers of Zwingli and Calvin were more severe in their rejection.

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