Slaves of the Gods or Enslaved to the Gods?

Enslaved labour was ubiquitous in the ancient world. Free devotees to the god(s) often used enslavement metaphors in describing their relationship to the god(s). In both cases, the divine is figured as an enslaver. Yet legally enslaved labourers' experience of constant surveillance, minimal resources, and somatic expendability stands in tension with persons who name themselves slaves of the god(s). The former category of people experiences enslavement as a lack of autonomy while the latter appear entitled to autonomy through their enslavement. The distinction creates tension between these identities. This article explores how an understanding of enslaved labour practices informs an understanding of this tension and discusses how enslavers who self-identify as enslaved to their god(s) practice religion by identifying with a god who is an enslaver.