Aspects of femininity in the filipino concept of the divine as found in ancient filipino myths

• Main Author: Gaerlan, Ma Carmen R.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 1994
• Subjects: Femininity of God; Mythology, Philippine; Image of God; Goddesses; Religion
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_doctoral/724
• Institution: De La Salle University

This study determines if femininity exists in the archetype of the divine, or goddess, for ancient Filipinos.Examined from a feminist perspective, at least 69 major and minor goddesses were identified which were present in various Philippine myths. This showed that the Filipino image of the Divine contained not just a masculine but also a feminine archetype.The goddesses were classified under various cosmic and social functions showing that the feminine was responding to various needs of people.The goddess was often portrayed in a relationship and interaction with the male god. Lastly, the feminine archetype was described in both positive and negative aspects.In terms of feminist theology, the recovery of the goddess in Philippine myths affirms, and provides, a mythological basis for advancing certain positions relative to the need for acknowledging the important role of the feminist agenda.