Uncovering Astonishing Connections: Hindu Mythology's Surprising Links to World Religions
Keywords:
Mythology, Comparative Religion, Creation Myths, Divine Archetypes, Ethical Parallels, CosmologyAbstract
Purpose: This paper explores the striking parallels between Hindu mythology and various global religious traditions, highlighting common archetypes, symbols, narratives, and ethical concepts. By examining key mythological motifs from Hinduism alongside those from Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and ancient polytheistic traditions, this study seeks to underscore the universality of mythological expressions across cultures.
Methodology: Information is collected from various authentic sources using appropriate keywords using multiple search engines like Google, Google Scholar, and AI-driven GPTs. The information is analysed, evaluated, and interpreted to create new knowledge.
Findings: The findings suggest that myths, despite their apparent cultural uniqueness, often embody shared human concerns, such as the fear of the unknown, the need to explain natural phenomena, and the desire for moral order, along with spiritual aspirations like the search for salvation, enlightenment, and a connection to the divine.
Originality/Value: Mythology has always served as a cornerstone of human civilization, providing explanations for natural phenomena, moral guidance, and a framework for religious beliefs. While Hindu mythology is one of the oldest and most intricate in the world, other major religions and traditions also possess rich mythological traditions. Similar mythological elements across diverse cultures raise compelling questions about the origins, diffusion, and universality of religious narratives.
Type of Paper: Exploratory research.