“Apotheosis, also called deification or divinization, is the glorification of a subject to divine levels and, commonly, the treatment of a human being, or any other living thing, or an abstract idea in the likeness of a deity.” Wikipedia
In other words, apotheosis is when we elevate a human or any other thing to the level of a god. Above is an 1865 painting by Constantino Brumidi, that is in the eye of the rotunda of the Capitol Building in Washington D.C. It is called “The Apotheosis of George Washington,” and shows Washington rising in glory, flanked by Liberty and Victory/Fame.
Apotheosis is a subject of many an art painting, but it certainly doesn’t belong in our political landscape. When I listen to people talk about the candidates that are running for office this electoral season, I am amazed that some people sound like they are elevating them to an almost god-like status. Many view Donald Trump as a would-be savior of the nation. I heard one pundit say that when he walked into the Republican National Convention, there was almost a “religious” quality to the atmosphere. On the other side of the political spectrum, many Democrats are speaking of Kamala Harris as the one who can “save our democracy.” It is amusing to see how a person who was discounted by her own party for so long has now risen within weeks to be the one who can save our nation from the supposed fascism of those on the right.
I know that political rhetoric gets hyped during an election season, but let’s please not get caught up in it. Both candidates are only human, and their frailties are on full display. One cannot stick to a subject without disrespecting his opponent, and the other changes her policy views depending on which way the political wind is blowing. Let’s get a grip and tell it like it really is. The electorate will again have to choose between two bad choices in an effort to find the best person to lead this country. My hope is that someday we may be able to find people to run who have personal and political integrity and are fully committed to this nation. We may then have better choices when it comes time to cast our ballots.
Valerie Cullers 
I agree both are flawed and in no way rise to the level of savior! But one of them really seems to hate America and the other does display faith sometimes.
I sadly think there will never be a person with actual integrity at this level. Politics are too dirty for someone to remain pure. We can only choose the less-worse option.
Somehow we must retain the hope that one day we’ll be living in the perfect world with the perfect king!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Yes, you are so right. Our hope is in the Lord and thankfully, not in politicians. No one is perfect and yes, we can vote for the one whose policies agree with ours. Let’s just keep the deification to a very low level!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Amen to that!!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Indeed! I have been thinking through this from the other angle too. I have heard a few reporters ask various leaders what the greatest threat to America was. Abortion, other party, boarder, Russia, etc. The answer is actually God’s wrath! We continue to kick against the picks and think we maintain His favor… Beware!
LikeLiked by 4 people
Absolutely! We get the leaders we deserve. That in itself is a judgment…not withstanding the one to come.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hear…hear!
I so appreciate your take on the politics of the day.
We live in a fallen world. No politician and that no politician is as wonderful or heinous as they are portrayed by both sides.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Absolutely! They are just human and all the drum beating about how bad they are is just that. Each side is just playing for its own choir and no one is listening! Good to hear from you!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hi Valerie. As I expect from you, another great post. Reading through it, I was continually saying “yes”. The heightened elevation of these two, and the political climate overall is alarming. God have mercy on us all…..
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes, we must pray for this country. We need all of the wisdom and help from God that we can get! Thanks for your thoughts!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Getting a grip! And I thank you, for I learned a new word today. You sure do keep me on my toes!
LikeLiked by 2 people
You’re welcome! The Lord pops this stuff in my mind! I just try to put it on paper!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Pop and put! i love it!
LikeLiked by 2 people
You make me smile! 😍
LikeLiked by 2 people
Then my work here is done!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Interesting word for something that can wreck our lives. Putting anyone or anything above God can be a death sentence.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Absolutely. That is another part of this subject. Thank you for sharing it. Always something to think about and evaluate ourselves in its context!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautifully written i first time knew about the wors Apotheosis.well shared.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much!
LikeLiked by 1 person