Cabiri
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Related to Cabiri: Samothrace, Hephaestus
Cabiri
Cabiri (kəbīˈrī), in ancient religion of the Middle East, nature deities of obscure origin, possibly Phoenician. They were connected with several fertility cults, particularly at Lemnos and at Samothrace, where important mysteries were celebrated. According to one legend they were also patrons of navigation. In Greek religion they were associated with Hephaestus, Hermes, and Demeter.
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The following article is from The Great Soviet Encyclopedia (1979). It might be outdated or ideologically biased.
Cabiri
(also Cabeiri), in Greek mythology, deities originating in Asia Minor (probably Phrygia), who fulfilled the combined functions of chthonic deities and fertility demons. The Cabiri were also considered the protectors of seafarers and the saviors of the shipwrecked. Their cult was widespread along the coasts of Asia Minor, on the islands of the northern Aegean Sea, and partly in northern and central Greece. The most ancient and famous sanctuaries of the Cabiri were located in Thebes (Boe-otia), on the island of Lemnos, and especially on the island of Samothrace. Here they were revered as “great gods,” and the mysteries, which had been extremely popular beginning with Hellenic times, were performed in their honor.
The Great Soviet Encyclopedia, 3rd Edition (1970-1979). © 2010 The Gale Group, Inc. All rights reserved.