El
In Religion and Mythology, El is a prominent deity, often considered the supreme god in the Canaanite Religion and Ugaritic Mythology. Here's a detailed overview:
Origin and Etymology
- The name El derives from the Semitic word for 'god' or 'deity'. It is related to words in various Semitic languages meaning 'god', such as Eloah in Aramaic, Elohim in Hebrew, and Ilah in Arabic.
- El's origins are ancient, with evidence of his worship dating back to the third millennium BCE in Mesopotamia and the Levant.
Attributes and Roles
- El is typically portrayed as the father of the gods, often referred to as 'Father of Years' or 'Bull El'. He symbolizes wisdom, justice, and authority.
- He is often depicted as an elderly, bearded figure, sometimes with wings, which might symbolize his omnipresence or his role as the creator.
- His consort is Asherah, and together they form the divine couple in Canaanite pantheon.
Mythological Tales
- In the Ugaritic Texts, El appears in various myths, including the epic cycle concerning Baal, where he serves as the supreme judge among gods.
- One notable tale involves El blessing Baal with kingship, signifying his authority over divine succession and order.
Influence and Legacy
- The concept of El influenced later religious traditions. In Judaism, El becomes part of the name of God, as in Elohim, although the monotheistic nature of Judaism transformed the polytheistic elements.
- In Christianity and Islam, the idea of God as a singular, omnipotent being can be seen as a development from the attributes ascribed to El.
Archaeological Evidence
- Archaeological findings, especially from the city of Ugarit, provide significant evidence of El's worship. Tablets found here detail his roles and relationships with other deities.
Sources
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