Goddess movement

Spiral Goddess symbol neo-pagan

Seal of Inanna, 2350-2150 BCE

Rene Antoine Houasse - Minerva and the Triumph of Jupiter, 1706

Kaliposter1940s

Willendorf-Venus-1468

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Goddess movement refers to the spirituality and religion-related movement that emerged in the late 20th century, emphasizing the worship or reverence of the goddess, a female deity or deities. Rooted in feminism, neopaganism, and the broader New Age movement, it seeks to elevate, celebrate, and sometimes exclusively focus on the divine feminine. The Goddess movement encompasses a variety of practices, beliefs, and communities, each with its own interpretation of what the goddess represents, ranging from the embodiment of nature and fertility to a symbol of female empowerment and social justice.

Origins and Development

The Goddess movement has its roots in the 1960s and 1970s, during a period of significant social and cultural transformation in the Western world. It was influenced by second-wave feminism, which questioned traditional gender roles and sought equality for women. Scholars and activists like Marija Gimbutas, who proposed theories of ancient matriarchal societies worshipping a great goddess, and Starhawk, a prominent figure in modern Witchcraft and the author of "The Spiral Dance," played pivotal roles in shaping the movement. These influences, combined with a growing disillusionment with patriarchal monotheism, led to a resurgence of interest in pre-Christian polytheistic and matriarchal religions.

Beliefs and Practices

The Goddess movement is diverse, with no single set of beliefs or practices. However, common themes include the worship or veneration of the goddess, a focus on the cycles of nature and life, and the belief in a female aspect of the divine. Practices may include rituals, meditation, the celebration of pagan holidays (such as Beltane and Samhain), and the use of magic and divination. The movement often incorporates elements from ancient mythologies, including Greek mythology, Norse mythology, and Celtic mythology, adapting these traditions to fit contemporary spiritual needs.

Impact and Criticism

The Goddess movement has had a significant impact on contemporary spirituality, contributing to the growth of neopagan and New Age movements and influencing feminist theology and environmentalism. It has been praised for empowering women, promoting ecological awareness, and providing an alternative to patriarchal religious structures. However, it has also faced criticism, including accusations of historical inaccuracies in its portrayal of ancient societies, cultural appropriation, and the exclusion of male deities and participants.

Community and Culture

The Goddess movement is supported by a global community of practitioners, scholars, and activists. It is represented in various forms of media, including books, music, and art, and is celebrated in festivals and gatherings worldwide. The movement has also given rise to numerous organizations and networks that offer resources, support, and opportunities for connection among those who identify with or are interested in Goddess spirituality.

See Also

• Feminist spirituality
• Neopaganism
• Wicca
• Ecofeminism

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