It is notable that the most important Indo-European goddess is not the generative, fecund Earth that brings forth masses but the tamed, domestic flame of the Hearth that delineates filial continuity and distinction of space (property) and blood.
The Romans, systemizers that they were, did not leave Agriculture or Birth in the hands of a single Earth or Mother Goddess. St. Augustine japes about this.
More and more these days, I'm understanding that the ancient gods were demons, and those demons are still very much fighting for control. Human sacrifice, inversion of heirarchy, humiliation rituals, it's all around us.
It is notable that the most important Indo-European goddess is not the generative, fecund Earth that brings forth masses but the tamed, domestic flame of the Hearth that delineates filial continuity and distinction of space (property) and blood.
The Romans, systemizers that they were, did not leave Agriculture or Birth in the hands of a single Earth or Mother Goddess. St. Augustine japes about this.
Interesting, I need to read what he had to say about it
But yes, great point on their goddess
http://www.logoslibrary.org/augustine/city/0421.html
Relevant section of "City of God."
More and more these days, I'm understanding that the ancient gods were demons, and those demons are still very much fighting for control. Human sacrifice, inversion of heirarchy, humiliation rituals, it's all around us.