Origin MythsAll cultures and in this case, religions, exemplify common and differing relations. A key concept about indigenous religions, in general, is that their origins and founders are concepts that are not quite known or understood in its entirety. This is specifically true in respect for origins, gods, and ancestors. Origin stories are myths and legends (usually passed down through word of mouth, through ritualistic dances, and other forms) that describe how the world and the tribe came into being. Many of these origin myths are centered around the relationship between a higher power(s), the natural world, human beings, and oftentimes the spiritual world as well. Origin stories are valued greatly in indigenous religions because they build the foundation for how human beings regard their world(s) around them. This includes the world of the living, the dead (ancestors), the powerful (gods/goddesses, deities, and spirits), and the environment (inanimate: rocks, trees, streams, etc. and animate: birds, whales, cats, etc.).
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Citations
Image: http://www.public-republic.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/mother_earth_6001.jpg Paragraph: http://highered.mheducation.com/sites/007340750x/student_view0/chapter2/chapter_summary.html RST 61 Textbook |
Mayan.Japanese.Aztec..OriginMyths | |
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