According to the Maimonidean interpretation, idolatry in itself is not a fundamental sin, but the grave sin is the belief that God can be corporeal. ... The commandments in the Hebrew Bible against idolatry forbade the practices and gods of ancient Akkad, Mesopotamia, and Egypt.

When did idolatry begin in the Bible?

According to the Hebrew Bible, idolatry originated in the age of Eber, though some interpret the text to mean in the time of Serug; traditionnal Jewish lore traces it back to Enos, the second generation after Adam.

What was the punishment for idolatry in the Bible?

The sin of worshipping another god is called idolatry. Historically, the punishment for idolatry was often death. According to the Bible, the commandment was originally given to the ancient Israelites by the Lord after they had escaped from slavery in Egypt, as described in the Book of Exodus.