The Great Cosmic Mother: Rediscovering the Religion of the Earth - Book reviews of The Great Cosmic Mother: Rediscovering the Religion of the Earth

'The Great Cosmic Mother: Rediscovering the Religion of the Earth' book reviews

Review for'The Great Cosmic Mother: Rediscovering the Religion of the Earth'

"The Great Cosmic Mother: Rediscovering the Religion of the Earth" by Monica Sjöö and Barbara Mor is a profound exploration into the prehistoric roots of human spirituality and the role of the Great Goddess in shaping ancient cultures. This book is an ambitious, meticulously researched, and deeply passionate work that aims to reclaim and revive the ancient Earth-centered religion that venerates the feminine divine.

One of the most striking aspects of "The Great Cosmic Mother" is its breadth of scholarship. Sjöö and Mor have delved into a vast array of sources, from archaeology and anthropology to mythology and folklore, to construct a compelling narrative. They argue that before the advent of patriarchal societies, there was a widespread worship of the Great Goddess, a deity that embodied the cycles of nature, fertility, and life itself. This matriarchal religion, they contend, was more egalitarian and harmonious with the environment compared to the patriarchal systems that followed.

The book is divided into several sections, each delving into different aspects of the Goddess religion. The authors take readers on a journey through ancient civilizations, from the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods to the great cultures of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley. They highlight the pervasive presence of the Goddess in these societies, as evidenced by archaeological finds such as statues, figurines, and temple remains. Each chapter is rich with illustrations and photographs that bring these ancient artifacts to life, providing a tangible connection to the past.

Sjöö and Mor's writing style is both scholarly and accessible. They manage to present complex ideas and theories in a way that is engaging and thought-provoking. Their passion for the subject matter is evident on every page, making the book not just an academic treatise but a heartfelt plea for a return to a more balanced and Earth-centered spirituality. They argue that the suppression of the Goddess religion has had profound and detrimental effects on human societies, leading to environmental degradation, social inequality, and spiritual disconnection.

One of the most compelling arguments in the book is the connection between the suppression of the feminine divine and the rise of patriarchal religions. Sjöö and Mor provide a critical analysis of how major world religions, particularly those of the Abrahamic tradition, have marginalized women and nature in favor of a male-dominated, transcendent deity. They suggest that reclaiming the Goddess and her Earth-centered spirituality could be a path towards healing both the planet and human societies.

While "The Great Cosmic Mother" is undoubtedly a work of passion and conviction, it is not without its critics. Some scholars have questioned the authors' interpretations of archaeological evidence and their sometimes romanticized view of prehistoric societies. However, even critics must acknowledge the book's contribution to the discourse on spirituality, gender, and ecology. It has inspired countless readers to rethink their relationship with the Earth and the divine.

In conclusion, "The Great Cosmic Mother: Rediscovering the Religion of the Earth" is a groundbreaking work that challenges conventional narratives of history and spirituality. Sjöö and Mor's vision of a world in which the feminine divine is once again honored is both radical and hopeful. For anyone interested in the intersections of spirituality, feminism, and ecology, this book is a must-read. It not only provides a rich historical account but also a powerful call to action to restore balance and reverence for the Earth in our contemporary world.

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