The Luwian Gods and Goddessess

The Luwians were a significant cultural civilization that thrived predominantly in the western and southern regions of Anatolia from the 3rd millennium BCE to the 1st millennium BCE, leaving traces that persisted into the Hellenistic and Roman period. This study examines the gods and goddesses of the Luwian civilization. Starting with the main god Tarhunt, significant deities like Arma, Santa, Tiwad, and Maliya will be explored. Playing a crucial role in every aspect of daily life, the Luwian gods were considered entities that provided assistance and protection in areas such as agriculture, hunting, warfare, health, and nature. The religion of the Luwian civilization had a profound impact on its cultural and social life. The existence of a social religious structure where gods were consulted in almost every situation and the presence of a god at every point necessitated a comprehensive examination of the subject. Rituals, an essential component of Luwian religion, were performed to appease the gods or seek their help and protection. These rituals, centered around offerings, prayers, and singing and dancing, were carried out in the presence of the deities. Holding a significant place in daily life, the gods were present in small shrines dedicated to them in homes or open- air temples. Just like humans, they would eat, drink, and even form families, creating a model of society. We learn from various protective deities and certain ritual texts encompassing bird divination that the Luwians led a life in harmony with nature. Therefore, natural life gave rise to various protective deities, while the ability of birds like falcons to aid in navigation brought bird divination to the forefront, even elevating birds to a point of sacred attribution. Gods from different civilizations that coexisted within the same geographical area and reflected parallel characteristics with nature were none other than alternative archetypes of Luwian gods. Thus, it is possible to encounter traces of Luwian gods among the numerous Anatolian deities spread across a vast region. KEYWORDS: Luwian, Luwian Gods and Goddesses, Ritual of Luwian, Sanctuary of Luwian