Paul Wallis discusses the figure of Asherah in ancient religious contexts, particularly within Hebrew and surrounding ancient cultures. Here’s a summary of the key points related to Asherah:
Role in Hebrew Texts:
Asherah appears in ancient Hebrew texts alongside other powerful entities like Baal.
These texts had to be edited to present a seamless narrative of Yahweh as the sole God.
Archaeological Evidence:
Excavations at Tell el-Farah revealed artifacts, including carvings and figurines, indicating the worship of Asherah.
A significant find was a carving of a naus (doorway) flanked by symbols of Asherah, suggesting a portal for advanced beings.
Attributes and Representation:
Asherah is depicted as an emphatically female entity with attributes like bare breasts, a vulva, and bouffant hair.
She is shown in carvings holding lions by the ears, emphasizing her power.
Cultural Significance:
Asherah was honored for teaching ancient humans agronomy, contributing to the Great Leap Forward in human civilization.
She was associated with nurturing and tutelage, credited with advancing agricultural knowledge.
Comparisons to Other Cultures:
Similar figures in other cultures include Zulu’s Barb Wanawarisa, Sumerian Shamhat, and Mesoamerican deities.
Asherah’s contributions are likened to those of other female deities across different ancient cultures.
Names and Symbols:
Asherah was known by various names, such as Astarte, Hathor, and the Lion Lady.
She is also associated with symbols like the olive tree, which persisted in Eastern Orthodoxy.
Historical Context:
Kings Hezekiah and Josiah reformed Judaism by removing worship practices related to Asherah and other deities.
These reforms aimed to centralize worship around Yahweh and eliminate other priesthoods.
Paleo Contact Theory:
The transcript suggests that Asherah and other deities represent advanced beings from other worlds who interacted with ancient humans.
This theory is supported by symbolic interpretations of archaeological findings and ancient texts.
Astronomical Connections:
Asherah is linked to the Pleiades star cluster, indicated by symbols found at Tell el-Farah.
This connection aligns with similar narratives in other cultures that attribute advanced knowledge to beings from specific star systems.
Impact on Jewish Memory:
Despite reforms, memories of Asherah persisted in Jewish practices and texts.
Jeremiah and other biblical writers provide glimpses into the pre-reform religious landscape, where Asherah was widely venerated.
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