An Ancient Goddess, a Living Devotion

Review of The Many Gods Anthologies: Hekate (Volume I)

There is much written about Hekate today, yet her very familiarity can conceal how little of her we have considered. The Many Gods Anthologies, Volume I: Hekate, edited by Vikki Bramshaw, offers a welcome invitation to look further.

The subjects gathered here range from household worship and ancient magical words to dreams, theatre and the religious life of different lands. Such variety is appropriate to a goddess whose devotees have approached her through so many names and forms. It also gives the reader something more substantial than another collection of familiar correspondences - and this is what I really enjoyed about this collection.

Sorita d’Este’s contributions introduce Hekate and household devotion, and examine the Ephesian Letters. Christina Moraiti considers the Orphic Hymn to Hekate, while Karin Rainbird explores her place in a living Orphic tradition. These subjects will interest those who wish to bring knowledge of the past into thoughtful relationship with their own practice.

Other contributions lead into less familiar territory. Emily Carding discusses the creation of Hekate Genesis, bringing dramatic art into the religious conversation. B. P. Shoop explores Medea, hero cult and spiritual ancestry, while Ness Bosch and Francine Derschner turn our attention towards Iberia and the Brazilian crossroads.

An anthology allows its contributors their own voices, and its readers the pleasure of discovery. One essay may answer a question; another may suggest a subject worth investigating for oneself. There is considerable value in a book which encourages that independence of enquiry.

Historical research and personal experience both have a place here. They require discernment, for an inward conviction and a historical fact are different things. Respect for the goddess is well served by taking both seriously enough to examine them honestly.

For those drawn to Hekate, this is an inviting collection. Its breadth reminds us that devotion can find expression in study, in art, in the home and in the particular landscape where we live. The ancient gods continue to inspire new questions, and this volume offers many worth pursuing.

The Many Gods Anthologies, Volume I: Hekate, edited by Vikki Bramshaw. Avalonia, 2024. 178 pages.