Evolution of a Deity: From Momentary Eigenblink to Institutional Divine King
A two-column comparative table showing how a deity's characteristics change from a pre-epic, momentary "Eigenblink Gott" to a post-epic, institutional "Divine King." Rows compare Status, Geography, Weaponry, and Legitimacy. In the pre-epic column the deity is an ephemeral event associated with shifting clouds and whose lightning bolt is his body, deriving legitimacy from the terror of the bolt. In the post-epic column the deity is a permanent ruler tied to Mt. Saphon as a fixed "Sovereign Node," uses the lightning bolt as a weapon he grasps, and gains legitimacy from the "House" and the defeat of Mot.
Table with two columns labeled "Pre-Epic (Momentary)" and "Ugaritic/Post-Epic (King)" and rows for Status, Geography, Weaponry, and Legitimacy. Pre-epic: "Eigenblink Gott: pure event"; geography "shifting clouds/atmosphere"; weaponry "lightning bolt is his body"; legitimacy "derived from the terror of the bolt." Post-epic: "Divine King: institutional ruler"; geography "Mt. Saphon (Fixed 'Sovereign Node')"; weaponry "lightning bolt is a weapon he 'grasps'"; legitimacy "derived from the 'House' and the defeat of Mot."
