Bill, This very same question was raised by many in the community. The decision of the Rabbis was that even a "thank you" or a feeling that you did a good deed was considered "derived benefit" and thereby prohibited. The laws of idolatry are among the harshest in the Jewish religion. It is on an equal plane with both, murder and adultery, in that one is obligated to sacrifice his life rather than transgress. SOL ZELLER