Vol. 1 - Physical Representations of the Gods
Physical Representations of the Gods - October 19, 2025 8:29 PM / Jessie
One of the very first thing anyone (worshiper or not) thinks of in reference to the Hellenic gods, Greek mythology, or Ancient Greece in general is all the beautiful art that depicts the gods. Whether its sculptures, pottery, frescoes, or even Renaissance paintings it’s nearly impossible to separate the images of the gods from their journey through art history. So naturally, when it comes time to build a space for your worship (shrine, altar, etc.) your first instinct might very well be to purchase a marble or bronze statue. But what if you can’t afford a statue (in this economy!?)? Or what if you need something more discreet? Or what if the statues just aren’t your vibe? Well guess what, Mimi? There are a PLETHORA (love that word) of alternatives to choose from! Some of which I will be discussing today!
“Wait, Jessie!!! Won’t we be seen as awful worshipers for not using traditional representations??”
Short answer: No
Long answer: Also no, but with a bit more explanation. Worries like these are why I strongly encourage ALL worshipers to focus on cultivating a connection with their gods. The world is full of people and people have opinions and thanks to the internet many people like to make their opinions everyone else’s problem. So yeah, you might have people labeling you a “bad worshiper” because you are using a Labubu or Funko pop as a representation for your god, but thanks to your connection with your deity, you know they not only love that Labubu but they also made sure you pulled the exact one you both wanted! (Artemis and Hermes claimed mine and Destiny’s Labubus!)
Now with that squared away lets get to the list!
1) Figures
Thanks to the rise in popularity of blind boxes, Funko pop, and anime, figures are more widely available and accessible than traditional statues. Figures also give followers a chance to represent their own personal vision of and relationship with their deity considering the variety of figures available. There are even Greek mythology themed figures! (Forever in love with my Zeus Funko pop!).
2) Dolls
Pssst! Hey you. Yeah you. Come closer, I got a secret to tell you. Your deity representation doesn’t need to stay on your altar! Wild, I know! Did you also know that you can interact with it if you want? I just blew your mind, didn’t I? Well it’s all true and it’s also why I love dolls as a deity representation! Wherever you go and whatever you do, your doll (and a physical manifestation of your deity) can come along. Watching your favorite movie? Studying for an exam? Getting lost in Ikea? Protesting fascist regimes? Your doll is too! Depending on the doll you choose you can also change it’s clothes and gather fun accessories for it, making it more customizable and interactive!
3) Artwork
If there’s one thing to be grateful for Lore Olympus, Percy Jackson, Hades, and Epic! the musical for it’s that they continue to keep Greek mythology relevant in pop culture. This means finding original artwork depicting the gods is relatively easy. Though it’s also important to remember that you don’t have to use artwork that specifically depicts the gods. Any piece that you see your deity or your relationship with them in is perfect!
4) Objects
I got another mind-blowing secret for ya. Hope you’re sitting for this one. Your representation doesn’t need to be a human figure! This one works really well for anyone who needs/wants to keep their worship discreet. Ultimately, anything (natural or manmade) can be used. Flowers, pinecone, mini racecar, plushie, crystals, jewelry, guitar pick, that neat shell you found at the beach…anything you associate with your deity and you feel their energy from can work as your representation.
5) Tarot/Oracle Cards
This one is pretty self explanatory. For my fellow card slingers, you know that we tend to have strong personal associations to the cards and that applies to our deities as well. If you have a card that you see your deity in, you can use it as your representation!
6) Handmade Items
Whether purchased or crafted yourself, handmade items add a unique and personal touch to your devotion. And the possibilities of what you create or choose are endless! Deity jars or boxes, candles, collages, mini shrines…basically whatever sparks your creativity.
7) Statues
Okay, I know the whole point of this post was to list alternatives to statues, but I feel its important to mention that replica’s of ancient statues aren’t your only option. Much like everything else on this list, any statue that resonates with you can be used even if it doesn’t specifically depict your deity. Artists also have their own creations available as well as customization services where they turn any statue into the perfect deity representation!
This is by no means an exhaustive list, just an opportunity to start thinking outside of the box. Remember, your worship is YOURS so the power of decision lies in your hands. Don’t be afraid to express yourself through your devotion and connect with your deities in the way that works best for you.