Goddess Worship

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that archeology and linguistic findings indicate that goddess worship in various forms has taken place since the Ice Age. The author points out that many experts believe that, during biblical times, as Christianity and Islam began to evolve, almost all pagan goddess worship was driven from society and religion, thus creating patriarchal societies with women subservient to men. The paper relates that more recently goddess worship has enjoyed a renewed popularity through (1) the spiritual practices of pagans and Wiccans and (2) the women's movement.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
History
Biblical Times Arrive
Keeping Them Down
Marija Gimbutas
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Goddess worship began long before any formal records were kept but there have been stories and illustrations throughout history that indicate goddess worship began in prehistoric times. From the beginning of time, mankind began to divide itself into societies that had two types of humans, the hunters and the gatherers. Humans are the only animal species on earth that understand life it finite. It ends and people die. Out of that understanding came the foundation for religious principles and practices."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Barin, Anne, Van Der Post, Laurens. The Myth of the Goddess: Evolution of an Image (Arkana S.) (Paperback) Publisher: Arkana (Jun 1993)
• History of Goddess Worship (accessed 8-30-06) http://www.teachingreligion.com/goddess/history.html
• Magical Experiences(accessed 8-30-06) http://www.blogickal.com/2006/03/persecution_of_early_goddess_w.html
• WICCA(accessed 8-30-06) http://notendur.centrum.is/~snorrigb/Cult-fem.htm
• Wimmin, Wiccans, And Goddess Worship http://www.allanturner.com/ss09.html by Allan Turner

More papers on Goddess Worship:

• Comparison Essay # 118368 : "Image of the Goddess and Unity"
• Analytical Essay # 3593 : "The Goddess"
• Essay # 53885 : "Goddesses, Agriculture, and Religion"

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