Encyclopedia of Gods

More about the book

Since the beginning of time, people across continents have grappled with the same mysteries and fears, often seeking explanations through the worship of gods. This connection between deities and the human psyche has persisted for at least 60,000 years. The Encyclopedia of Gods presents concise information on over 2,500 deities, ranging from ancient gods of polytheistic societies—such as Hittite, Sumerian, and Mesopotamian—to contemporary figures in major monotheistic religions like Allah, God, and Yahweh. It encompasses diverse cultures, including African, Albanian, Pre-Islamic Arabian, Aztec, Babylonian, Buddhist, Canaanite, Celtic, Egyptian, Native American, Etruscan, Germanic, Greek, Roman, Hindu, Persian, Polynesian, and Shinto. The entries cover both significant and minor deities, featuring well-known figures like Zeus and Thor, alongside lesser-known gods such as Tozi, the Aztec goddess of healing, and Annamurti, the Hindu patron deity of the kitchen. Each entry details the culture that worshiped the god, their roles, and identifying characteristics and symbols. For major figures, references in art and literature and known worship dates are included. With indexes by civilization and deity role, the encyclopedia aids researchers in comparing gods across cultures or exploring specific topics, making it an invaluable resource for students and enthusiasts of religion, anthropology, history, and mythology.