And even those religions that do have central deities, of ten have lesser beings with powers. Think of nymphs, satyrs, saints, nature spirits.

I think part of SGA's problem was that they didn't have a regular character, like Daniel, who's purpose is to explore both the differences and the similarities between the various cultures. Elizabeth was the closest they got, but she didn't get the opportunity very often and then they killed her. *is still bitter*