The Sacred Tree in Ancient Greek Religion

Abstract

<p>The purpose of this study is to examine the role played by the tree cult in the religion of the ancient Greeks, and to discuss various aspects and instances of tree worship which survived into the Classical period and later. By this means it is to some extent possible to deduce information regarding the form and character of the religion practised by the early inhabitants of Greece, particularly in the prehistoric period, when tree worship began. To this end, various general remarks have been included on the subject of tree worship as it was manifested in ancient Greek religion, as well as a more detailed account given of three cults in which the tree cult survived in association with the deities venerated there. These were the cults of Artemis Orthia at Sparta, Helen at Therapnai, and Hera at Samos.</p>