ENH251 - Mythology

Cosmological myths, both aetiological and ritualistic, often explore grand themes that seek to explain the fundamental aspects of our existence. The creation of the universe is a common theme, typically depicted as a divine act or a cosmic event, setting the stage for all subsequent narratives¹². The origin of the gods often follows, establishing a pantheon that governs various aspects of the natural and supernatural world³. The origin of humankind is another key theme, explaining our place and purpose in the universe¹². Many myths also speak of a golden age, a time of peace and prosperity that eventually gives way to strife or decay¹². The appearance of death is a pivotal theme, introducing mortality as a defining human condition⁴. Finally, myths often describe places of reward and punishment, serving as moral compasses by outlining the consequences of human actions in the afterlife¹². These themes collectively form the backbone of many cosmological myths, providing a framework for understanding the world and our place within it¹²⁵⁴³.

Learn more: 1. en.wikipedia.org   2. britannica.com   3. voegelinview.com

The creation of the universe is a common theme, typically depicted as a divine act or a cosmic event, setting the stage for all subsequent narratives¹². 

The origin of the gods often follows, establishing a pantheon that governs various aspects of the natural and supernatural world³.

 The origin of humankind is another key theme, explaining our place and purpose in the universe¹². 

 Many myths also speak of a Golden Age, a time of peace and prosperity that eventually gives way to strife or decay¹². 

The idea of a Golden Age—a mythical time of peace, prosperity, and harmony—is a recurring theme across many cultures and mythologies. Here are some notable examples:

1. Greek Mythology

• Golden Age of Man: Hesiod describes five Ages of Man in Works and Days, with the Golden Age being the first. During this time, humans lived in harmony with the gods, free from toil and suffering. The earth provided abundantly, and people lived long, peaceful lives.
• Ruled by Cronus, before Zeus took over and ushered in the Silver Age.

2. Hindu Mythology

• Satya Yuga (Krita Yuga): The first of the four Yugas in Hindu cosmology. It is considered the age of truth and righteousness, where virtue reigns supreme and humanity lives in harmony with nature and the divine.
• Dharma (cosmic law) stands on all four legs, symbolizing complete moral integrity.

3. Norse Mythology

• Age of Peace after Creation: After the gods created the world, there was a brief period of peace and prosperity before the arrival of strife and the eventual doom of Ragnarök.
• The realm of Asgard was built, and the gods lived in harmony before the rise of conflict.

4. Roman Mythology

• Golden Age under Saturn: Similar to the Greek version, Romans believed that under the rule of Saturn (Cronus), there was a time of abundance and peace. No laws were needed because people naturally did what was right.
• This myth was often invoked during times of political idealism or reform.

5. Chinese Mythology

• Era of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors: A legendary period of wise and benevolent rulers who brought order, agriculture, and civilization to humanity.
• Often seen as a golden age of moral virtue and technological advancement.

6. Zoroastrianism

• Primordial Time of Perfection: Before the invasion of evil by Angra Mainyu, the world created by Ahura Mazda was perfect, without suffering or death.
• This ideal state is to be restored in the future through the coming of a savior (Saoshyant).

The appearance of death is a pivotal theme, introducing mortality as a defining human condition⁴. What is the concept of death in mythology?

In some religions there are deities that even control when an individual will die. For example, in Greek mythology the goddess who has control over an individual's death would be Atropos (known as the one who cuts the thread of life). In a modern sense, the most common deity of death is the Grim Reaper.

Finally, myths often describe places of reward and punishment, serving as moral compasses by outlining the consequences of human actions in the afterlife¹²