Crossword Genius

One old convert from heathenism (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

idol

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'heathenism' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to thinking as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'one old convert' is the wordplay.
'one' becomes 'i' (Roman numeral).
'convert' is an anagram indicator (I've seen 'converting' mean this).
'old' is an anagram of 'dol'.
'i'+'dol'='IDOL'

'from' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for idol that I've seen before include "Hero of screen or stage" , "Pagan symbol" , "Admired figure" , "Object of reverence" , "Pin-up" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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