which is better meditation or idol worship

 as in puranas

During the Satya-Yuga, meditation was the way to attain self knowledge. 

During Treta-Yuga, it was attained by penance,

During Dwapar Yuga it was attained by performing 'Yagya'

while in the present era of Kali Yuga, idol worship is considered to be the means to achieve selfrealization.

Invirtuosity invites sorrow while virtuosity bestows joy and happiness.