What is polytheistic fear, what are its characteristics, and is fearing the sight of idols considered polytheism (shirk) against Allah?

Fear of polytheism (shirk (definition)) is permissible and even desirable, as long as it does not lead to obsessive doubts (waswasa). The evidence for this is the hadith (definition) of Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him) with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), in which he explained that polytheism is more subtle than the creeping of an ant. He also taught a supplication (du'a) to be recited to remove both minor and major polytheism: "O Allah, I seek refuge in You from associating partners with You knowingly, and I seek Your forgiveness for what I do not know." What has been mentioned does not lead to polytheism; rather, it indicates aversion to it.