The subject of religious origins is complex and yields many aspects for
consideration. In 1920, when
Pagan & Christian Creeds
was first published,
few realized that Christianity had sprung from the same root as Paganism and
shared by far most of its doctrines and rites.
In this classic study are considered three paths in the evolution of
religion: the connection of religious rites and observations with the sun
and other astronomical bodies, leading to the invention of remote deities in
heaven; the second involving religion with the earth, nature, and seasonal
changes; the third linking religion with the human body, aspects of fertility
and undying life. So too covered is the process which divinities and demons
were created and rites for their propitiation and placation established.
Contemporary readers seeking answers to the question of what caused the
appearance of faith and the phenomenon of religion will find this book
invaluable study.