PART TWO: RECLAIMING LILITH
Session 6:
How does integrating a strong female archetype into humanity’s origins affect my worldview and my image of our creator?
INTRODUCTORY READING:
Preface—Reclaiming Our Time: Why Women Must Uncover Our Ancient History by Christena Cleveland., Ph.D. (p. 5)
INVOCATION (open your time together using a sound element—singing bowl, chant, drum, etc.)
OPENING CIRCLE (sit in silence for one minute, palms touching each other’s)
OPENING QUOTE
“In the beginning people prayed to the Creatures of Life. At the very dawn of religion, God was a woman.” —Merlin Stone
EXPLORATION: How does a strong female archetype from humanity’s origin affect my worldview and my image of our creator?
In this sixth session, we complete Part Two of our study—Reclaiming Lilith—allowing ourselves to look honestly at the the effects of patriarchal origin myths and imagery on our on the way we perceive and relate to both creator and creation. We explore how this narrative and our experience with it differs when a strong female archetype like Lilith takes her place at the beginning of the story.
SUGGESTED READINGS (go around the circle, allowing all participants a chance to read)
Note: These pieces where chosen because they speak to the root of our understanding of both humanity and divinity. Looking at how Lilith impacts this understanding, each piece offers insight into answering the question, “How does integrating a strong female archetype into humanity’s origins affect my worldview and my image of our creator?” Participants may read the piece in its entirety (if short) or an excerpt (if longer). The reader can select the passage(s) if excerpting. If time/resources exist, you may also project the selected image on a screen, making sure you credit the artist.
Goddess, Demon or Femme Fatale: the InDomitable Lilith in Literature by Dr. Gillian M.E. Alban (p. 155) Note: reader will need to select passages from this lengthy piece
Anointing the Lilith Within by Rita Lucey (p. 185)
Lilith and the Black Madonna by Susan Scott (p. 188)
The Hag’s Prayer, Hissed from Crone to Innocent by Danielle Dulsky (p. 199)
Wind Dancer Wind (image) by Elisabeth Slettnes (p. 207)