The concept of Jupiter in Christianity
In Early Christianity, Jupiter symbolizes the Roman god associated with pagan worship, reflecting a misguided reliance on such deities instead of the true God. This perspective highlights the conflict between Christianity and ancient pagan practices, emphasizing the need to distance oneself from these beliefs in favor of a more authentic spiritual reliance on the divine. Jupiter serves as a representation of the broader challenge early Christians faced in confronting the remnants of paganism in their communities.
In Dutch: Jupiter; In German: Jupiter; In Finnish: Jupiter; In Spanish: Jupiter; In Swedish: Jupiter; In French: Jupiter; In Malay: Musytari
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Jupiter'
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) Jupiter was said to be the father of Proserpine and Minerva, according to the claims made by the devils, mimicking Moses.[1] (2) Jupiter is a god, and it is suggested that he could be a great necessity or the mind of man, according to the text provided.[2] (3) The central figure, whose actions and character are the focus of scrutiny, is described through a series of behaviors that challenge his status as a deity.[3] (4) The Genesis of the Susian women has not Venus, with Jupiter and Mars in the middle of the heaven in the houses of Jupiter.[4] (5) Jupiter is a figure whose actions are chronicled by the historian Euhemerus, including his exploits and the origin of his family members, and his life's conclusion in Crete.[5]
From: The city of God
(1) Jupiter is a prominent figure, a god, and even king of the gods, and is used to compare the value of Felicity, and to show the potential flaws of the other gods.[6] (2) Jupiter is mentioned as a king of the gods who presided over the Capitol, and whose temple was defended by Valerius the consul, and his frequent adulteries are mentioned in the context of a discussion of the god of medicine.[7] (3) Jupiter is a god who is understood to have the power of causes, with dominion over highest things, and is sometimes identified with Janus and considered the king of all things.[8]
From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature
(1) The priest of this deity was not permitted to touch leaven, reflecting the belief that it originates from corruption and contaminates what it touches.[9] (2) The text references a statue of this figure in the Capitol, which was made of cypress and lasted for over 600 years without any signs of decay.[10]
From: Expositions of Holy Scripture
(1) This is the name given to Barnabas by the people of Lystra, associating him with the Roman deity, which signifies the people's perception of his divine status and power.[11]
Gnostic concept of 'Jupiter'
From: The Gnostics and Their Remains
(1) This term refers to the guise in which Simon was represented in an image worshipped by his followers, as described in the text.[12]