Before The Abrahamic by Hoku Lani

Before the stories of the Old Testament were written, there were already ancient deities worshipped by civilizations all over the world. These Goddesses and Gods, with their rich and complex histories, predate the monotheistic beliefs of the Abrahamic religions. From the ancient Egyptian goddess Isis, who was worshipped as the ideal mother and symbol of fertility, to the Greek god Zeus, ruler of the gods and god of thunder, each deity represented a different aspect of life and held great significance in the lives of their followers.

In Mesopotamian mythology, the Goddess Inanna was revered as the Queen of Heaven and Earth, as well as the goddess of love, fertility, and war. She was known for her fierce and passionate nature and was often depicted as a powerful and confident warrior. Similarly, in Hinduism, the goddess Durga is worshipped as the supreme feminine power and the protector of the universe. She is depicted with multiple arms, each holding a weapon, symbolizing her strength and ability to overcome any obstacle.

In many ancient cultures, the Gods and Goddesses were not only worshipped but also believed to have a direct influence on the natural world. The Aztec God Quetzalcoatl, for example, was believed to be responsible for the creation of humans and the movement of the sun and stars. In Norse mythology, the God Odin was seen as the ruler of the Gods and the one who controlled the elements of nature.

The worship of these deities was not limited to one specific region or period. The Goddess Isis, for instance, was worshipped in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, and her influence can even be seen in modern-day religions such as Wicca. This shows the enduring power and significance of these ancient Goddesses and Gods, who continue to capture the imagination and devotion of people throughout history.

In contrast to the monotheistic beliefs of the Abrahamic religions, these ancient deities often represented a pantheon of Deities, each with their unique characteristics and roles. This allowed for a more diverse and multifaceted understanding of the divine, with each deity representing different aspects of the human experience. From the nurturing and protective mother figures to the powerful and authoritative rulers of the gods, these deities provided a sense of connection and understanding to the people who worshipped them.

LUCIFER

Without Christianity, Lucifer is a figure that can be interpreted in many different ways. In ancient mythology, he is often associated with the planet Venus and is portrayed as a beautiful, powerful, and rebellious deity. In some cultures, he is seen as a bringer of light and knowledge, while in others he is viewed as a trickster or tempter. In these interpretations, he is not necessarily seen as evil, but rather as a complex and multifaceted being.

Some scholars argue that the idea of Lucifer as a malevolent being was largely shaped by the early Christian church to demonize pagan deities and beliefs. This transformation of Lucifer into the embodiment of evil and temptation may have been used as a way to control and convert people to Christianity.

In non-Christian belief systems, Lucifer may not be viewed as a separate entity, but rather as a symbol for the human ego or the concept of duality. In Hinduism, the deity Shiva is often associated with the qualities of both light and darkness, much like the conflicting characteristics attributed to Lucifer in Christianity.

Ultimately, without the lens of Christianity, Lucifer may be seen as a God and symbol of individuality, rebellion, and complexity. He may also serve as a reminder of the human struggle between good and evil, and the constant quest for knowledge and understanding. In this sense, he is a figure that transcends any one religion or belief system and can be interpreted in a multitude of ways.

LILITH

Absent the Christian narrative, Lilith holds many different meanings and interpretations. In some cultures, she was seen as a fertility Goddess and protector of women. In others, she was a symbol of female empowerment and rebellion against patriarchal society. Some modern feminist movements have even adopted Lilith as a symbol of female strength and independence.

In recent years, Lilith’s image has undergone another transformation with the rise of neo-paganism and the New Age movement. She is now seen as a Goddess of the Night, associated with feminine power and sexuality. Many people also view her as a symbol of self-acceptance and embracing one’s true nature, without conforming to societal expectations.

Lilith is a complex figure who has been shaped by various cultural and religious influences throughout history. While Christianity may have played a significant role in how she is perceived today, it is important to recognize that Lilith’s story and symbolism extend far beyond the confines of one religion. She remains a powerful and enigmatic Goddess, challenging traditional notions of femininity and inspiring new interpretations and meanings.

I find it fascinating that many different societies and religions had different names for our beloved Mother and Father. What do you believe?