Definition and Overview:
The provocation of idolatry refers to the act of inciting or leading individuals or groups to worship idols or false gods, which is considered a grave sin in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Idolatry is the worship of created things rather than the Creator, and it is repeatedly condemned throughout the Bible. The provocation of idolatry often involves enticing or seducing believers away from the worship of the one true God, Yahweh, to serve other gods, which is seen as a direct violation of the first two commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

Biblical Context:
The Bible provides numerous accounts and warnings against idolatry, emphasizing its destructive nature and the severe consequences it brings upon individuals and nations. The provocation of idolatry is often depicted as a recurring temptation for the Israelites, who were surrounded by pagan nations with their own deities and religious practices.

Old Testament References:
1. Exodus 20:3-5 : "You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in the heavens above or on the earth below or in the waters beneath. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on their children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me."

2. Deuteronomy 4:23-24 : "Be careful not to forget the covenant of the LORD your God that He made with you; do not make for yourselves an idol in the form of anything He has forbidden you. For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God."

3. 1 Kings 11:4-6 : "For when Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and he was not wholeheartedly devoted to the LORD his God as his father David had been. Solomon followed Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians and Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. So Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD; unlike his father David, he did not follow the LORD completely."

New Testament References:
1. 1 Corinthians 10:14 : "Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry."

2. 1 John 5:21 : "Little children, keep yourselves from idols."

3. Acts 17:16 : "While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was deeply distressed to see that the city was full of idols."

Consequences of Idolatry:
The Bible describes the consequences of idolatry as severe and far-reaching. Idolatry leads to spiritual adultery, estrangement from God, and ultimately, divine judgment. The Israelites experienced numerous calamities, including exile and destruction, as a result of their repeated lapses into idol worship. The prophets frequently warned the people of Israel about the dangers of idolatry and called them to repentance.

Theological Significance:
Idolatry is not merely the worship of physical idols but extends to anything that takes the place of God in one's heart. It represents a fundamental breach of the covenant relationship between God and His people. The provocation of idolatry is seen as a direct challenge to God's sovereignty and holiness. It underscores the importance of exclusive devotion to God and the rejection of all forms of false worship.

Practical Implications:
Believers are called to remain vigilant against the subtle and overt forms of idolatry that can infiltrate their lives. This includes the worship of material possessions, power, status, or any other entity that demands allegiance over God. The call to "flee from idolatry" (1 Corinthians 10:14) is a timeless exhortation to maintain purity of worship and faithfulness to God alone.