Polytheistic Coexistence and Panhellenic Identity -- An Analysis of the Inclusivity of Ancient Greek Religion and Its Role in Fostering Ethnic Cohesion

Abstract

This paper focuses on the uniqueness of ancient Greek religion, delving into how its polytheistic coexistence propelled the formation of Panhellenic identity. The study reveals that ancient Greek religion, rooted in primitive animism, established a hierarchical yet inclusive
divine network. Local deities were integrated into the Olympian pantheon through narratives of a single deity with multiple attributes (polymorphic divinity), preserving regional cultural distinctiveness while providing a unified religious framework for all Greeks. The deep integration of religious practices with secular lifesuch as personal life rituals, public festivals, and pilgrimage activitiesforged shared cultural
symbols and collective memories, binding individuals to their city-states. The anthropomorphic nature of the gods dissolved the boundaries
between the sacred and the profane, offering cultural underpinnings for political innovations in the polis. Panhellenism, reinforced by cultural symbols like myths, sanctuaries, and festivals, coalesced fragmented city-states into a spiritual community, particularly during historical
events such as the Persian Wars. This pluralistic yet integrated religious model provides historical insights for addressing cultural diversity
and holds significant implications for studying classical civilizations and modern cultural integration.