"For more than 60,000 years, people have worshiped deities of the sun, sky, and sea, as well as creator gods, relying on the guidance of faith in the midst of the mysterious world around them. Dictionary of Gods and Goddesses, Second Edition provides access to more than 2,500 of these religious figures, from the famous to the obscure, and from the earliest times to today. Each entry details the culture that worshipped the deity, the god's function and characteristics, and the symbols used in identification. Longer entries for major figures include known periods of worship, references in art and literature, and further insight into the deity's life and times." "New features, including cross-references and a comprehensive index, make this revised edition more accessible than ever. Dictionary of Gods and Goddesses, Second Edition is an indispensable resource perfect for general readers interested in mythology and religion, as well as scholars of religious studies, anthropology, history, and archaeology."--BOOK JACKET.