Vatican City, Aug 31, 2004 / 22:00 pm
Focusing on the second part of Psalm 113 in today's general audience, in the Paul VI Hall in the Vatican, the Pope spoke about the temptation to idolatry and it’s contrast with worship of the true God.
John Paul II said that "after an initial word addressed to the Lord to bear witness to His glory, the chosen people describe their God as the omnipotent creator. ... 'The idols of the people' are in immediate contrast to the true God, adored by Israel.”
“Idolatry is a temptation for all of humanity in all ages. An idol is something inanimate, the work of men's hands, a lifeless cold statue," he said.
"After this blunt criticism of idols," continued the Pope, "the psalmist expresses a sarcastic wish: 'May those who make idols and put faith in them be like them.' ... Those who adore the idols of wealth, power and success lose their dignity as a human person."