Why Are Ancient Religions Considered Mythology But Not Present-Day Religions?

The distinction between ancient religions and present-day religions has been a topic of much debate among historians, anthropologists, and religious scholars. While ancient religions are often derided as mere 'mythology,' modern religions are bestowed with a certain cultural and historical prestige. This article explores the reasons behind this discrepancy and the impact of historical, cultural, and social factors on our perception of these beliefs.

The Creation and Evolution of Religions

Religions are not static entities; they evolve over time, often borrowing from older traditions. The period around the 3rd and 4th centuries saw the development of several modern religions, such as Christianity, Islam, and others, which were heavily influenced by earlier religious texts and beliefs. However, these religions incorporated new narratives and characters, creating a blend of historical and fictional elements.

In many cases, these new religions rejected or marginalized earlier religious practices and figures, labeling them as 'mythological' or 'untrue.' This rejection was often driven by the desire to establish a definitive and unchallenged history, which in turn solidified their own beliefs and doctrines. The fabrication of narratives and the rejection of pre-existing spiritual practices led to a respectful bifurcation between ancient and modern religions.

Historical and Cultural Context

The historical context plays a significant role in shaping our perception of religions. The victors, as the saying goes, write the history books. This has led to a skewed narrative favoring the dominance of certain religions over others. For instance, Catholic Christians and Muslims have historically engaged in efforts to eradicate other religious practices through force, coercion, and conversion. When they entered new territories like the Americas, they often destroyed native religious artifacts and writings, labeling the old religions as 'mythical.' This practice continues to some extent today as evidenced by the destruction of archaeological sites and the erasure of historical accounts.

In the case of the Spanish conquistadors, their arrival in the Americas led to not only the spread of diseases but also the widespread massacre and enslavement of indigenous populations. The old religious practices and beliefs were deemed to be nonexistent, and the new religion was established as the only true belief. Here, the remnants of an old religion were actively rejected and replaced by a new set of beliefs, contributing to the perception of ancient religions as mere 'mythology.'

The Misuse of Terms and Metaphors

The definition and use of the term 'mythology' can be misleading. Traditionally, mythology referred to a collection of religious stories and legends. However, in contemporary usage, 'mythology' has acquired a pejorative connotation, often synonymous with 'untruth' or 'misconception.' This usage is especially prominent in discussions about modern religions, where critics might call certain aspects of a religion 'myths' to undermine its credibility.

It is important to recognize that the term 'myth' in the anthropological sense is not inherently negative. For example, when we speak of 'modern myths,' we are using the term metaphorically to refer to common misconceptions about contemporary beliefs. This usage is distinct from the academic study of ancient mythologies, which is a rich and detailed field with a large body of preserved and analyzed material. The confusion arises when the academic use is conflated with the pejorative usage in modern discourse.

Conclusion

The distinction between ancient religions and modern religions is complex and multifaceted. It is influenced by historical events, cultural biases, and the impact of victors on recorded history. By understanding these factors, we can approach the study of religions with a more nuanced and respectful perspective. It is crucial to recognize that both ancient and modern religions are part of the human cultural landscape and deserve equal respect and analysis.

References:

1. Ahrweiler, N. (2002). The Conquest of the New World 1492-1550: The Spanish Case. New York: Routledge.

2. Anderson, W. G. (2006). Reconstructing Native Religion: Myths, Monuments, and Hymns in the Wake of the Crusades. University of Tennessee Press.

3. Frye, R. A. (2003). The Secular Scripture: Manifestations of the Myth of the Lord of Heaven in Western Literature. Harvard University Press.