The extent to which it is true that whether something is or isn’t Avoda Zara depends on whether it connects or separates. Example: the Keruvim according to the RaMbaN. Every rule has exceptions except Avoda Zara and it really comes down to whether it is connected or separated. Dor Haflaga separated between Elokus and Adna-i (Elokim). It is called “ונעשה לנו שם” to make for themselves a name that was at their disposal and separated from the rest of Elokus. It was corrected by the Neshamos of the Yidden in Mitzrayim who were gilgulim of the Dor Haflaga. Before the creation of the Jewish nation every Goi was a Shtikel Yid.
