Beyond the shape-shifting trickster Māui (of Disney’s Moana fame), many people know very little about the fascinating Hawaiian gods and goddesses and Hawaiian mythology. Among the thousands of Hawaiian gods and goddesses, there is a huge variety, from the powerful and terrifying to the peaceful and beneficent. Some gods and goddesses reigned over extensive realms …
From Zeus and Jupiter to Poseidon and Geb, there were many pagan gods around the world. The word “Pagan” derives from the Latin “Paganus”, which was reappropriated by Christianity, first in the fourth century AD, to alienate those who did not adhere to the Christian religion. Originally it had signified that somebody was “rural,” “rustic,” …
In ancient Persia, the term “satrap” referred to a provincial governor or ruler who governed a satrapy, which was a territorial division of the Achaemenid Persian Empire. The satraps were appointed by the central Persian authorities and were responsible for collecting taxes, maintaining order, and ensuring the loyalty of the local population to the Persian …
Enki and Enlil are two important deities in Mesopotamian mythology, particularly in the religious beliefs of the Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. They were central figures in their pantheon of gods and played significant roles in the creation and governance of the world. Who are Enki and Enlil? Enki and Enlil are two ancient Mesopotamian …
When you think of gods and deities, what usually comes to mind? The Abrahamic God, with his singular power over the entire universe? What about Ra, the sun god of ancient Egypt? Or perhaps Phanes, the Greek gods’ original ancestor according to the legendary poet Orpheus? These would all be good answers. But what do …
From Zhongli Quan and He Xiangu to the Dragon Gods of the Four Seas, Chinese mythology features a wide array of gods, goddesses, and divine beings, each with their own unique attributes and stories. Chinese pantheon is incredibly diverse and varies across different regions and historical periods, reflecting the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and …