The Idolatrous Nature of Nationalism: Allegiance Elevated to Worship
Nationalism has often been a cornerstone of political, cultural, and social discourse, shaping the identity and relationships of nations across centuries. At its core, nationalism involves the exaltation of a nation—or a particular conception of a nation—to the highest place of allegiance, concern, and devotion. This steadfast loyalty places the nation at the pinnacle of an individual’s priorities, often superseding familial, communal, or even spiritual ties. While this devotion to one’s nation is frequently lauded as a virtue, it has also been scrutinized by theologians, philosophers, and ethicists alike. Many Christian critics of nationalism, for example, have observed its essentially idolatrous nature. They argue that when a nation is elevated to a place of ultimate allegiance, it displaces the divine, becoming an object of worship itself. However, while the idolatrous propensity of nationalism has been widely discussed, I propose that nationalism is inherently demonic as well—a force that corrupts, divides, and dehumanizes.
The Idolatry of Nationalism
To understand why nationalism is often deemed idolatrous, we must first consider the Christian conception of idolatry. In the biblical tradition, idolatry is the worship of anything other than God. It is an affront to the divine because it misplaces ultimate trust and reverence, diverting them toward created entities—be they objects, concepts, or institutions. Nationalism, in this light, functions as a modern form of idolatry. By elevating the nation to a sacred status, nationalism demands unconditional loyalty and devotion that rightly belongs to God.
This idolatrous dimension is evident in the symbols, rituals, and language that often accompany nationalist movements. National flags are treated with near-religious reverence, national anthems resemble hymns, and national leaders are revered as prophets or saviors. These practices reinforce the sacralization of the nation, fostering a sense of ultimate belonging and purpose tied to the nation-state. Such devotion, however, is not without consequences. When the nation becomes the primary object of allegiance, moral and ethical considerations are often subordinated to national interests. This can lead to the justification of violence, oppression, and exploitation in the name of national glory.
Nationalism as a Demonic Force
While the idolatrous nature of nationalism is troubling in itself, its implications go even deeper, revealing its inherently demonic character. In Christian theology, the demonic is associated with forces that corrupt, divide, and distort God’s creation. Demonic forces thrive on deception, chaos, and destruction, opposing the divine order of love, justice, and unity. Nationalism, exhibits these very characteristics.
The Corruption of Moral Order
Nationalism corrupts the moral order by prioritizing the interests of one nation over universal principles of justice and compassion. This often manifests in the dehumanization of “the other”—those who are perceived as outsiders or enemies of the nation. Nationalistic rhetoric frequently portrays other nations or groups as threats, fostering fear, hatred, and hostility. This dehumanization not only justifies acts of aggression and exclusion but also erodes the moral fabric of society, replacing empathy and solidarity with suspicion and animosity.
Moreover, nationalism often conflates moral righteousness with national interest. Actions that would otherwise be deemed unethical—such as war, economic exploitation, or environmental degradation—are justified when they serve the nation’s goals. This moral relativism undermines the universality of ethical principles, creating a world where might makes right and the ends justify the means.
The Division of Humanity
One of the most insidious aspects of nationalism is its divisive nature. By emphasizing the distinctiveness and superiority of one’s nation, nationalism erects barriers between people, fragmenting the human family. This division is not merely theoretical; it has tangible consequences in the form of borders, conflicts, and discrimination. Nationalism fosters an “us versus them” mentality, pitting nations, ethnic groups, and cultures against one another in a ceaseless struggle for dominance.
This divisive ethos directly contradicts the Christian vision of humanity as a unified body, created in the image of God and called to live in harmony. The Apostle Paul writes in Galatians 3:28, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Nationalism, however, undermines this unity by elevating national identity above shared humanity, sowing seeds of discord and conflict.
The Distortion of Truth
Finally, nationalism thrives on the distortion of truth. Nationalistic narratives often rely on myths, exaggerations, and outright lies to construct a glorified image of the nation. History is rewritten, enemies are demonized, and inconvenient truths are suppressed to serve the nationalist agenda. This manipulation of truth not only perpetuates ignorance and prejudice but also erodes trust and integrity within society.
The demonic nature of this distortion is evident in its ability to blind individuals to reality, leading them to act in ways that are contrary to their own values and interests. By distorting truth, nationalism ensnares individuals in a web of deception, rendering them complicit in acts of injustice and oppression.
Conclusion
In summary, pride in one’s country is not intrinsically harmful; however, when such pride escalates into extremism, it becomes deeply troubling. Nationalism transcends its role as a mere political stance or cultural sentiment—it is a powerful current with significant spiritual consequences. By demanding ultimate loyalty and devotion, nationalism risks supplanting the place reserved for the divine, embodying a form of idolatry. Moreover, in its most extreme manifestations, it undermines moral order, sows division among people, and warps the fabric of truth itself, setting itself in opposition to the sacred principles of love, justice, and unity.
As we navigate a world increasingly shaped by nationalist sentiments, it is imperative to critically examine the spiritual and ethical dimensions of nationalism. By recognizing its idolatrous and demonic tendencies, we can resist its corrosive influence and strive toward a vision of humanity rooted in compassion, solidarity, and truth.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 