Nepal’s latest goddess is a six-year-old named Shreeya. She has “eyelashes like a cow” and “a voice as soft and clear as a duck.” Her aides add that she is “fond of biscuits and rice.” She will be isolated in a house and worshiped “until the onset of menstruation” which will make her mortal.
This is all quite fascinating, but the most interesting part is that Shreeya was picked by the Maoist atheists who now run Nepal. In appointing goddesses, the Maoists are continuing the ancient practice of the monarchy they recently abolished.
It seems quite irregular to have atheists appointing goddesses, but the government acknowledges no conflict. One official said, “Just because we are now a republic and no longer have a king or royal priest, does not mean we should end our traditions.”
And I suppose it doesn’t, but it’s hard to justify isolating little girls until puberty just for old times’ sake. Many American fathers would argue that puberty is when the isolation should start .
While I have you, can I ask you something? I’ll be quick.
Twenty-five thousand people subscribe to First Things. Why can’t that be fifty thousand? Three million people read First Things online like you are right now. Why can’t that be four million?
Let’s stop saying “can’t.” Because it can. And your year-end gift of just $50, $100, or even $250 or more will make it possible.
How much would you give to introduce just one new person to First Things? What about ten people, or even a hundred? That’s the power of your charitable support.
Make your year-end gift now using this secure link or the button below.
