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Religious Myths & Symbols
By peace | September 25, 2007
Myths take many forms depending on the culture in which they are found. But their function is always that of pinpointing vital issues and values in the life of the society in question. They often dramatise those profound issues of life and death, and of how man came into being and of what his life is really about, of how he should conduct himself as a citizen or spouse, as a creature of God or as an entrepreneur, and so on.
Myths are not scientific or sociological theories about these issues. They are the outcome of the way a nation or group has pondered the great questions. Myths may be described as bridges between the intellect and emotion, between the mind and the heart. They function much like music. For instance, we might find a piece of music moving but cannot explain why in a rational manner.
Religious symbols help believers to understand their faith in quite profound ways. Like myths, they serve to unite the intellect and emotions for the task of discipleship. Symbols also integrate the social and personal dimensions of religion, enabling an individual to share certain commonly-held beliefs expressed by symbols while also giving him freedom to read his own private meaning into them. The cross of Christianity, the sacred books of Islam and Sikhism, the sacred cow of Hinduism, and the silent, meditative Buddha statue command the allegiance of billions of religious men and women.
Topics: Religion, View All Post |
