Ep 2. Gods Among Us

In season 3 episode 2 of The Story of God with Morgan Freeman, titled "Gods Among Us," Morgan Freeman explores the concept of deification. Throughout human history, cultures have elevated certain individuals to god-like status, often after their deaths. Freeman visits different places around the world to investigate why and how these people are chosen and venerated as deities.

The episode begins in Greece, where Freeman visits the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens. Here, he learns about the myth of Zeus, king of the gods, and how the ancient Greeks worshipped him and created statues in his likeness. Freeman also visits the island of Delos, where the myth of Apollo, god of music and prophecy, began. He speaks to a historian who explains how the myths and legends surrounding these deities were used to explain the world and give people a sense of comfort and connection.

Next, Freeman travels to India to learn about the concept of gurus, or spiritual teachers who are often revered as god-like figures. He meets with several gurus and their followers and witnesses the devotion and dedication they show. Freeman also visits the city of Varanasi, one of Hinduism's holiest sites, where he sees the river Ganges and the rituals performed there. He speaks to a scholar who explains the idea of Brahman, the ultimate reality that encompasses everything, and the different manifestations of deities in Hinduism.

The episode then takes a turn towards contemporary deification, as Freeman visits South Africa to learn about the legacy of Nelson Mandela, who has been called a "secular saint" by some. Mandela, though not a deity in the traditional sense, is revered by many as a symbol of hope and inspiration. Freeman speaks to people who worked with Mandela and learned about his impact on their lives and the country as a whole.

Finally, Freeman returns to the United States to explore the phenomenon of celebrity worship. He speaks with psychologists and cultural commentators to try to understand why people elevate actors, musicians, and other public figures to god-like status. He visits Hollywood to talk to fans waiting outside of a movie premiere and to see the Walk of Fame. Freeman also reflects on his own celebrity status and the strange power dynamic between celebrities and their fans.

Throughout "Gods Among Us," Freeman asks thought-provoking questions about the nature of deification and why people throughout history have sought to elevate certain individuals to god-like status. He explores the power and importance of myth-making and storytelling, as well as the ways in which modern society continues to create and venerate its own gods, both secular and spiritual.