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February 18, 2010
Hubris: Zeus and Religion.
Ah how shameless--the way these mortals blame the gods. From us alone, they say, come all their miseries, yes, but they themselves, with their own reckless ways, compound their pains beyond their proper share.
Do you need religion to check hubris? Does it matter who or what you use to curb folly and excess? We think not. Anyway, that's Zeus speaking above--in a rare public apppearance--in Homer's Odyssey. He's the last anthropomorphic god we at WAC/WAP? will let take liberties with us. Just for a little while longer, though.
But should you view world religions as more than first-rate crowd control devices to keep you and yours in line, Zeus (also below) is seen either negotiating with you or practicing his aim--Westerners have never been sure which--with his lightning bolt. So be advised: 1. Be good. 2. Aways follow someone else's rules. 3. Don't screw it up.
P.B. Persinger: "Semele and Zeus with Thunderbolt" (2007) 10" x 8" Oil
Posted by JD Hull at February 18, 2010 12:59 AM