AI – ‘In Antiquity, deities carrying a bag-like object, often referred to as a “handbag,” symbolized a variety of concepts depending on the specific culture and context. These included knowledge, power, wisdom, and the connection between the earthly and divine realms. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown: 

• Knowledge and Wisdom:

Some interpretations suggest the bag represented a repository of sacred knowledge, wisdom, or divine teachings. The bag’s contents were seen as essential for the deity’s role and for humanity’s benefit.

• Power and Authority:

In some depictions, the bag might signify the deity’s power or authority, perhaps holding items of ritual significance or symbols of their dominion.

• Connection to the Divine:

The bag could also symbolize the connection between the earthly and divine realms, representing the deity’s role as a mediator or bringer of blessings from the heavens.

• Practicality and Daily Life:

While less common, some theories suggest the bag might represent items used in daily life, like seeds, tools, or other essential objects, highlighting the deity’s connection to the practical aspects of human existence.

• Cosmic Symbolism:

In certain contexts, the bag might be interpreted as a cosmic symbol, representing the balance or harmony between different aspects of the universe.

• Cultural Diffusion:

The prevalence of this motif across diverse cultures, like those in Mesopotamia, Mesoamerica, and even Göbekli Tepe, raises questions about possible shared knowledge or symbolic meaning across ancient societies.

The exact meaning of the “handbag” symbol often depends on the specific artwork and cultural context in which it appears. While some theories are based on interpretations of ancient texts and artifacts, others remain speculative, highlighting the enduring mystery of this ancient motif.’ 

‘In Antiquity did the symbol of a deity carrying a bag signify the bringer of sacred knowledge and civilization?’

AI – ‘In ancient civilizations, the symbol of a deity carrying a bag is interpreted by some scholars as a representation of the bringer of sacred knowledge and potentially civilization. This interpretation is based on the recurring motif in various cultures where deities are depicted with a bag-like object. Some theories suggest it symbolizes the transmission of wisdom, secret knowledge, or even the seeds of creation. 

Here’s a more detailed look:

• Diverse Cultures:

The “handbag” or bag-like symbol appears across cultures, including Sumerian, Olmec, Maori, and Aboriginal art, as well as at sites like Göbekli Tepe. 

• Potential Meanings:

Some interpretations suggest the bag represents sacred knowledge, divine wisdom, or the tools of creation. 

• Cosmic Connection:

Others propose it symbolizes a connection between heaven and earth or the unification of the material and non-material realms. 

• Beyond Practicality:

While some suggest it could be a mundane container for tools or offerings, the widespread appearance and symbolic nature of the symbol suggest a deeper meaning. 

• Mystery Remains:

The exact meaning of the symbol continues to be debated, with some suggesting it might represent advanced technologies or extraterrestrial influence. 

• Examples:

In Maori lore, the bag is associated with wisdom from the gods, and Aboriginal traditions suggest it holds the seeds of creation. In Mesopotamian art, wise figures called Apkallu are often depicted holding similar objects, according to a Facebook post.’