Single Idea 20666

[catalogued under 29. Religion / A. Polytheistic Religion / 2. Greek Polytheism]

Full Idea

Polytheism does not necessarily dispute the existence of a single power or law governing the entire universe. Most poytheist and even animist religions recognised such a supreme power that stands behind all the different gods, demons and holy rocks.

Gist of Idea

Most polytheist recognise one supreme power or law, behind the various gods

Source

Yuval Noah Harari (Sapiens: brief history of humankind [2014], 12 'Benefits')

Book Reference

Harari,Yuval Noah: 'Sapiens: a brief history of Humankind' [Vintage 2014], p.238


A Reaction

Presumably this one supreme power was always taken to be too remote for communication or worship. Are the other gods seen as slaves, or friends, or ambassadors of the Supreme One?