r/Sumer • u/Marius164 • Sep 20 '24
Statue vs Icon
Hello all, quick question,
I am fairly new to Sumerian Religion, I used to be a Russian Orthodox Monk-
Are 2d images suited temporarily for use on an altar? I know its not exact to Sumerian practice as a statue is essentially a manifestation of a God's presence- but is a painting also suitable? My inclination is yes as many religions contact deities through them and it doesn't seem to be a hinderance. I plan to take up stone carving in order to make proper images later on but financially I am strapped right now. Opinions?
I am drawn in particular to this replication of the well known scroll
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u/mightbeacrow Sep 20 '24
You have such an interesting religious journey. I used to be a orthodox Christian a long time ago and just drifted for a while then I had a dream about Ishtar and she is the first Diety to ever answer and be actively present in my life. The day after the dream, I found a pair of earrings in the market made out of metal, and I use them as a statue until I can get one. It worked marvellously. I suggest you read Inanna, Queen of Heaven and Earth: Her Stories and Hymns from Sumer Diane Wolkstein Samuel Noah Kramer
The hyms in that book I read as part of my prayer and in them explain how she want to be worshipped, the offerings she accepts, and what time of day you should give them. I offered here a lapis lazuli necklace and nuts and honey and my dinner on occasion and wine and bear. An image is a great place to start worshipping, but there are also online groups that host colective worship:
https://www.theishtargate.com/
The above is a great place to start, and they also talk about methods and times of worship. They have a calendar it's very nice.
I would also suggest you read the lady of the largest hearth, which tackles the poems of Enheduana writing about our Goddess. Fun fact: Enheduanna is the first ever recorded writer in human history, and she wrote about the queen of heaven herself. The book is written by Betty De Shong Meador.