The old gods and the new
A fascinating topic!
"The Old Gods and the New" is a phrase that has been used to describe the contrast between the ancient, pre-Christian deities and the monotheistic, Abrahamic religions that emerged later. This phrase was popularized by the British author and occultist Aleister Crowley in the early 20th century.
In this context, the "Old Gods" refer to the pantheons of ancient mythologies, such as the Greek gods (e.g., Zeus, Poseidon, Athena), the Norse gods (e.g., Odin, Thor, Freya), the Egyptian gods (e.g., Isis, Osiris, Anubis), and others. These deities were often associated with natural phenomena, human experiences, and the cycles of life and death.
On the other hand, the "New Gods" refer to the monotheistic, Abrahamic religions that emerged in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. These religions emphasized a single, all-powerful, and all-knowing deity, often seen as a creator and judge of the universe.
Crowley, who was a prominent figure in the occult movement, saw the Old Gods as representing a more primal, natural, and mystical connection to the universe, while the New Gods represented a more rational, moralistic, and dogmatic approach to spirituality. He believed that the Old Gods were more in tune with the human experience and the natural world, while the New Gods were more concerned with moralizing and controlling human behavior.
In modern times, the phrase "Old Gods and the New" has been used in various contexts, including:
- Fantasy fiction: Authors like Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, and Rick Riordan have explored the contrast between ancient mythologies and modern religions in their works.
- Occultism and paganism: Some modern pagans and occultists have revived interest in the Old Gods, seeking to reconnect with the natural world and the mystical aspects of ancient mythologies.
- Cultural critique: The phrase has been used to critique the dominance of monotheistic religions and the suppression of pre-Christian beliefs and practices.
- Symbolism and art: The Old Gods and the New have been used as symbols in art, literature, and music to represent the struggle between tradition and modernity, or the tension between the natural and the artificial.
Overall, the phrase "Old Gods and the New" serves as a reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of human spirituality, and the ongoing dialogue between different belief systems and cultural traditions.