he Religious Thought of the Greeks: From Homer to the Triumph of Christianity

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The Religious Thought of the Greeks: From Homer to the Triumph of Christianity ✍? Clifford Herschel Moore The Religious Thought of the Greeks: From Homer to the Triumph of Christianity, written by Clifford Herschel Moore, is a comprehensive exploration of ancient Greek religious philosophy and its evolution over time. The book meticulously traces the development of religious ideas in Greek civilization, starting from the mythological traditions of Homer and Hesiod and culminating in the profound transformations brought about by the spread of Christianity. Moore examines how Greek religion began with anthropomorphic gods, rooted in myth and ritual, and gradually gave way to more abstract and philosophical conceptions of the divine through the works of thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. He highlights the shift from a polytheistic worldview centered on the capriciousness of the gods, to a more rational, ethical, and metaphysical understanding of divinity and the cosmos. Throughout the text, Moore delves into the religious practices, cults, and mysteries of the ancient Greeks, including the Eleusinian Mysteries and the Orphic tradition, shedding light on how these rites reflected deeper spiritual concerns and aspirations. He discusses the moral and philosophical reinterpretations of religion that arose in Hellenistic times, and how these new interpretations paved the way for the acceptance and eventual dominance of Christianity in the Greco-Roman world. Moore’s work emphasizes the continuity and transformation of religious thought, showing how Greek religious philosophy contributed significantly to Western religious and philosophical traditions. This scholarly yet accessible study offers readers valuable insight into the rich spiritual life of the ancient Greeks and the intellectual currents that shaped Western religious history. It is a vital resource for students of philosophy, religion, and classical studies, as well as for anyone interested in understanding the profound legacy of Greek religious thought.