The Return of the Goddess

“The history of the Goddesses and the Feminine is complex, marked by periods of adoration, suppression, and violence.”

Once upon a time, there was a World where the feminine was worshiped and revered. The Goddesses were powerful, multifaceted, and essential to the survival and flourishing of societies. Women were seen as equal partners in creating and sustaining life. The earliest documented depictions of Goddesses can be traced back to the Upper Paleolithic era when small figurines of women with exaggerated breasts and hips were discovered. These Venus figurines are believed to have been associated with fertility, childbirth, nurturing, and in honor of the Mother.

But then, something happened. With the rise of Patriarchal societies, the role of the Goddesses began to change. As male Gods became more dominant, the Goddesses were often relegated to secondary or minor roles. In some cases, she was even demonized or marginalized in religious texts and myths.

For example, one of the most famous Goddesses in ancient history was Inanna, the Sumerian Goddess of love, fertility, war, and wisdom. Inanna was known not only for her beauty but also for her strength and power. She was revered by the people of Sumer as believed to have control over the cycle of life and death. Throughout Mesopotamian history, many myths and legends were about Inanna. One of the most important temples in the City of Uruk in southern Mesopotamia was built in remembrance of her-the largest and most important in the region.

Mesopotamia is an ancient eastern Mediterranean region often called the “cradle of civilization.” It is located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in what is now Iraq, and it is one of the earliest known civilizations in human history.

The Mesopotamian civilization emerged around 4000 BCE and lasted until around 539 BCE when the Persians conquered it. The civilization was known for its advanced cities, complex social and political structures, and contributions to science, art, and literature.

Some of the most famous Mesopotamian civilizations include the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. These civilizations developed some of the earliest forms of writing, including cuneiform script, which was used to record everything from religious texts to legal documents.

Mesopotamia was also known for its monumental architecture, including the ziggurat, a massive stepped pyramid used as a religious temple. These structures were often decorated with intricate carvings and artwork, symbolizing the power and influence of the Mesopotamian kings and rulers.

The Mesopotamian civilization had a profound impact on the development of human civilization, and many of its innovations and ideas continue to influence modern society today.

However, as the Patriarchal system took hold, Inanna’s role diminished. She was eventually absorbed into the Babylonian pantheon, and her role was reduced to that of a ‘fertility goddess’ rather than the powerful and multifaceted Goddess she had once been.

Goddess Suppression & Violence Against Women

The suppression of the Goddesses was not limited to Mesopotamia. In ancient Egypt, the Goddess Isis was one of the most popular deities, worshiped as a Mother and fertility Goddess. However, as Egypt became more Patriarchal, male Gods such as Amun and Ra eventually overshadowed the Goddess Isis. In Greece, the Goddess Athena was one of the most revered deities, known for her wisdom, courage, and strength. Similarly, as Greek society became more patriarchal, Athena’s role changed. She was often depicted as a ‘virgin goddess,’ symbolizing male control over female sexuality. (She was even portrayed as a male warrior — as if to emphasize that women were not fit to fight). As the suppression of the Goddess continued, women began to suffer under Patriarchal systems.

The suppression of the Goddess continued into the Middle Ages when the Catholic Church actively worked to demonize pagan Goddesses and female deities. The witch hunts of the 16th and 17th centuries directly resulted from this, as the Church sought to eliminate any remnants of Goddess worship that still existed in Europe. In various parts of the World, Goddess temples have been replaced by churches built over them, symbolizing ownership of the Divine Feminine and in a radical way of seeing and feeding the literal womb of the Goddess power energy.

You will hardly ever hear this history anywhere because it’s a dirty secret that many churches have been built over former temple sites in various parts of the World, including in Mesopotamia. This practice of building religious structures on the sites of earlier religious sites is known as “appropriation” or “reappropriation.”

The Church and other religious institutions have sought to demonize or marginalize the Goddess, the Divine Mother, and other forms of feminine spirituality. This process is often called the “demonization of the Goddess.”

There are a few reasons why this may have occurred. First, many early religions and mythologies featured powerful female deities, and these beliefs may have been seen as a threat to the patriarchal power structures of the time. As male-dominated societies became more established, female deities were often demoted in status or replaced by male gods.

Additionally, the rise of monotheistic religions like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism tended to emphasize the idea of a single, all-powerful male deity, which further marginalized feminine spirituality.

One of the ways in which the church sought to demonize goddess worship was by associating it with pagan and “heathen” practices. This allowed the church to label these beliefs as heretical or sinful and to justify their persecution.

In some cases, the church also reinterpreted or co-opted elements of goddess worship for their purposes. For example, many Catholic churches were built on former pagan temple sites, and some Christian saints were associated with pre-Christian goddesses or other deities.

Despite these efforts to demonize and marginalize the goddess, many people throughout history have continued practicing feminine spirituality. These beliefs have experienced a resurgence in recent years as people seek to reconnect with their spiritual roots and challenge patriarchal power structures.

In some cases, the churches were built over the temples to assert the new religion’s dominance over the old one. This was often the case during the Christianization of the Roman Empire when pagan temples were converted into Christian churches.

In Mesopotamia, the rise of Islam led to the conversion of many ancient temples into mosques. For example, the ancient ziggurat of Ur, which was originally a temple dedicated to the Sumerian moon god Nanna, was converted into a mosque in the 7th century CE.

The practice of appropriating religious sites is common in Mesopotamia and even in ancient times. It has occurred throughout history and in many different parts of the World as religions have risen and fallen and new faiths have replaced old ones. Here are just a few examples of churches that were built over former Goddess temple sites:

1. The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey: Originally built as a cathedral by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. Today, it serves as a museum.
2. Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, France: The site of Notre-Dame Cathedral was once home to a Gallo-Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter. In the 4th century, a Christian basilica was built on the site, later replaced by the current cathedral in the 12th and 13th centuries.
3. The Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China: The Temple of Heaven was originally a complex of temples and altars used by the Ming and Qing dynasties’ emperors for annual ceremonies to pray for good harvests. Today, the complex is a popular tourist attraction.
4. The Parthenon in Athens, Greece: The Parthenon, one of the most famous temples in the World, was built in the 5th century BCE as a temple dedicated to the Goddess Athena. It was later converted into a Christian church in the 6th century CE and then into a mosque in the 15th century.

These are just a few examples of the many instances where religious sites have been appropriated or repurposed throughout history. The pursuit of wiping out any evidence of the Goddess was a war of the Divine Feminine.

The systematic persecution of a million women accused of witchcraft is one of the most lethal DNA-altering examples that caused women severe trauma, a well-known historical fact of unacceptable heightened abuse caused by the Patriarch against the feminine.

Many women were healers, midwives, herbalists, caregivers, or other natural practitioners seen as threatening by the male-dominated medical establishment. By accusing these women of witchcraft, patriarchal authorities could suppress their knowledge and expertise, reinforcing male control over medicine.

The Exploitation of Goddesses and The Feminine

One of the most demeaning aspects of the suppression of the Goddess is how it was often carried out through religious texts and mythology.

The most egregious examples of the suppression of the Goddess can be found in the Bible. In many cases, the Goddess was demonized or marginalized in myths and stories, or her role was reduced to that of a secondary or minor character. For example, in the story of Adam and Eve, the female character is depicted as the one who brings about the downfall of humanity, who took the knowledge of sin and infected the World. In contrast, the male character is portrayed as the innocent victim. This demonization and marginalization of women and Goddesses are not unique to Western culture.

While there are many stories of strong and powerful women in the Bible, their stories are often overshadowed by the Patriarchal narrative that dominates the text. For example, the story of Lilith, who was said to be Adam’s first wife, has been largely erased from the Bible. According to legend, Lilith refused to submit to Adam’s will and was cast out of the Garden of Eden. Her powerful story has inspired many women to stand for their sovereign rights.

Another example of the suppression of the Goddess can be found in the story of Mary Magdalene. While Mary Magdalene is one of the most important figures in Christian mythology, the Church largely overlooked or marginalized her role. Mary Magdalene has even been portrayed as a prostitute rather than the powerful and influential figure she truly was. However, in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Mary Magdalene, and many women have been inspired by her story to reclaim their power and authority.

In Chinese mythology, many stories depict women and the Goddess in a negative light or as subordinate to male Gods and figures. Similarly, in the story of Pandora’s box, the female character is blamed for all the World’s evils, while the male characters are absolved of any responsibility.

“The exploitation of Women became a grandiose built-in reality in the 3D matrix.”

The Resurgence of the Goddess

Knowing that the suppression of the Goddess on Earth directly resulted from Patriarchal systems that sought to eliminate female power and control is a tragedy. Yet, resistance in Modern day awakened women no longer accepts such treatments!

Yet, despite the efforts to suppress the Goddess, Her influence continued to be felt. The resurgence of interest in the Goddess as women seek to reclaim their power and place in society is rising.

The feminist movement of the 1960s and 1970s played a significant role in the resurgence of interest in Goddesses. This movement helped spark a renewed interest in Goddess worship, and neo-paganism has provided a framework for incorporating Goddess worship into modern spiritual practices. Feminist scholars and writers such as Gloria Steinem and Carol P. Christ highlighted the importance of Goddess worship and the need to reclaim the feminine divine. This led to the formation of feminist spirituality groups, which sought to explore and celebrate the role of the Goddess in women’s lives.

One of the most significant contributions of the feminist spirituality movement was the creation of new rituals and practices that honored the Devine feminine. These rituals were often based on ancient Goddess traditions but adapted to modern contexts. They included practices such as women’s circles, where women would gather to share their experiences and support each other, and Goddess ceremonies, which celebrated the cycles of the moon and the seasons connected to their creation of life and blood.

The resurgence of interest in the Goddess also impacted feminist theology. Feminist theologians began to explore the role of the feminine divine in traditional religions, challenging the male-centric interpretations of scripture and doctrine. They argued that the suppression of the Goddess was not just a historical phenomenon but also a continuing reality in modern religions. They called for a reimagining of theology that centered on the Divine feminine and valued women’s experiences and perspectives.

The re-emergence of the Goddess has also had an impact on popular culture. The image of the strong, powerful woman has become a popular trope in books, movies, and television shows. Characters such as Wonder Woman, Xena, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer embody the archetype of the warrior Goddess fighting against injustice, oppression, and the dark matrix.

The Goddess’s influence has persisted throughout history and continues to influence us today through the women’s movement in the West. We can also see this continuum of Goddess worship through India’s ancient culture of the East and other Asian countries being cultivated to this current timeline through rituals, honor, and respect given to their Goddesses from ancient times.

The progress made in reclaiming the Goddess is not over yet. There are still challenges. The Patriarchal systems that suppressed the Goddess still exist, and women still face discrimination and inequality in many areas of life. We must recognize that the suppression of the Goddesses has profoundly affected women throughout history. Women have often been denied education, healthcare, and other basic rights due to Patriarchal systems that seek to maintain control over them.

However, the resurgence of interest in the Goddess Worldwide ignites unstoppable inspiration and empowerment for women, reminding them of their place as “Equal partners in creating and sustaining life in society.”

This resurgence of interest in the Goddess has taken many forms, from neo-paganism to feminist spirituality to celebrating ancient Goddess traditions. Women are reclaiming their stories, histories, and power, and the Goddess is once again taking her rightful place at the center of our spiritual and cultural lives. In remembering, the suppression of the Goddess may have been a tragic and complex story that has profoundly affected women’s self-confidence throughout history. Despite centuries of suppression, the Goddess has persisted, and her influence can be felt today. By exploring the history of the Goddess, we can gain a deeper understanding of how patriarchy seeks to maintain control over women. We can also greatly appreciate women and Goddesses’ enduring strength and resilience. As we continue to explore the stories and traditions of the Goddess, we can also gain insight into our own lives and how we can reclaim our power and autonomy.

It is important to recognize that the Goddess’s story is not just a story of the past. Women continue to face inequality and oppression in many parts of the World, and the fight for gender equality is far from over. However, by reclaiming the stories and traditions of the Goddesses, women can gain a sense of empowerment and connection to something larger than themselves. The Goddess represents the power and strength of women, and the Goddess story is a reminder that women have always been a force to be reckoned with. From the fierce warrior Goddesses of ancient mythology to modern-day women fighting for justice and equality, the Goddess continues to inspire and empower women worldwide. Ultimately, the Goddess’s story is a story of hope and resilience.

The advent of the feminist movement of the 20th century helped spark a renewed interest in the Goddesses’. Women seek to reclaim their power and place in society. Embracing their Soul’s voice guides them toward their Dharma and Purpose to speak their deep-down wisdom and truth.

My Goddess Story

As a champion of women’s voices and a community builder, I am a part of this resurgence. Through my workshops and circles, I create a container of safe spaces where women can explore and connect with their deepest truth and inner voice through the power of storytelling and writing. We delve into the essence of our being, unleashing the voice that resonates with our authentic selves, and by sharing our stories, we can find healing, growth, and connection with others.

I was born with the name of a Goddess, Radha Krsna. This name represents the alchemical union of our feminine and masculine energies. It has been my lifelong journey to ‘Remember’ the Goddess within myself to help others do the same. Over a decade ago, I started my healing practice and created Goddess Code Academy, where I teach my modalities, Goddess Activations, and Goddess Code.

Sacred Space In Support of Women Who Come Together

I created the Goddess Code Collective, a space for women to unite and support each other in their personal growth, professional success, and spiritual fulfillment. This practice evolved into Goddess Code Academy, where women could receive training in multiple incredible modalities. My purpose in creating this Academy is for women of all colors to get support, tap into their feminine side, and discover the transformative power of Goddess Archetypes, Activations, and other Ancient Wisdom Practices. In addition, they get to know their Goddess archetypes and other healing methods offered in my certification programs. By becoming a Certified Goddess Code Coach or joining the Healer’s Program, they can serve their communities authentically with various healing tools I provide to assist others and align with their unique gifts and passions as professionally trained Goddess Activators. While at Radhaa Publishing House, my workshops and circles are designed for women who want to use storytelling to heal old traumas and embrace their unique voices. As the author, narrator, and creator of our stories, we become the masters of our narratives, reclaiming our power and setting ourselves free. And for those who dream of becoming a best-selling author, I offer Author Incubator Programs through Radhaa Publishing House, providing the mechanism, support, and resources to bring women’s writing dreams to life.

Our offerings continue beyond — through monthly Goddess Code Collective Calls, led by me, that provide a supportive and empowering women’s journey. Here, women can connect with a like-minded community and receive guidance, inspiration, and practical tools to help them thrive.

Our Goddess Story: The Work of the Divine Feminine Continues

The story of the Goddess deserves to be told and celebrated for generations to come. Despite centuries of suppression and oppression, the Divine Feminine has endured, and her influence can be felt throughout our lives today. As we continue to write the Goddess’s story, we must remain mindful and vigilant of how patriarchy seeks to suppress and silence women. We must also remain committed to fighting for gender equality and work toward a future where women and Goddesses are celebrated and honored in all their power and glory. By embracing the stories and traditions of the Goddess, women can reclaim their power and autonomy and work towards a future in which gender equality is a reality for all.

My workshops and circles are designed for women who want to use storytelling to heal old traumas and embrace their unique voices. For creatives, changemakers, and healers ready to share their words on the page and stage, I provide a supportive environment where women can explore their self-exploration, spirituality, and unique journey with the Divine Feminine.

As Maya The Shaman shares in her icon of ‘Remembering’ — “It’s our time to remember!” Despite the complex history of the Divine Feminine marked by periods of adoration and suppression, women will always remember. The resurgence of interest in the Goddess by women seeking to reclaim their power, sovereignty, and place in society in the 20th century helped spark a continued growing movement.

Maya Angelou once said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” As women, we are conditioned to internalize patriarchal lies that tell us we are not good enough, too raw, or too real. We are taught to be perfect and palatable, to remain in the polite good girl skin. But as Audre Lorde said, “Your silence will not protect you.” My work revolves around dismantling these limiting beliefs and embracing our soul voice, which guides us toward our Dharma and speaks our deep-down wisdom. Through writing and storytelling, we heal old wounds and release the stories stuck in our skin, bodies, and throats. These stories may carry self-doubt and shame and must be expelled, released, and rewritten. We are the author, narrator, and creator of our reality.

Toni Morrison said, “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” We become the masters of our stories, reclaiming our power and setting ourselves free. As Alice Walker once said, “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” My workshops and circles are designed for women who want to use storytelling to heal old traumas that may arise around being vocal and visible. For creatives, changemakers, and healers ready to share their unique voices through books, creative solo shows, and other self-transformative outlets, I provide a supportive environment where they can cultivate their confidence and express their truth.

Ultimately, my goal is to help women be seen, have their voices heard, and embrace their truth. We use writing and storytelling to heal feminine wounds and practice being seen and heard. Join me in this transformative journey of elevating, upgrading, and embracing the power of our Soul’s voice! Let this be a Golden Age for women’s spiritual revolution, calling the change makers to stand and speak of the renewal of our collective beliefs, honor, and respect for one another. Let the Light of the Feminine shine through and heal our humanity. Be inspired by the Goddesses who came before us, who left their legends for us to walk our path to wholeness.

Much love,

Radhaa