Historical Evolution of Mythology in India and Connections Between Mythology, Religion and Mysticism

The very concept of mythology is an interesting one. What is meant by the word and what is meant by the use of it? Questions about the nature of mythology and its place within our world are central to our class and have received growing attention recently through the efforts of Joseph Campbell. Specifically, that mythology is indeed a metaphor. Much akin to the metaphor of God: that God is a mystery that transcends all human thought.

The question of mythology and its importance is also related to the interconnectivity of human life. We, as people, sense a common connection with each other. That can be easily explained through many avenues, but at the simplest level, it is the result of a startling similarity between our unique genetic make up. Having said this, there is also a sense of connection with life in general. Indeed there is a threefold structure of self, outer world and the consciousness. In this sense, mythology is much more than tales or stories, but rather reconciliation with the realities of life. It is interesting to note that in the American-Indian mythology addressed by Campbell there is a covenant between man and animal: a contract that is replicated between a higher being and man in many of organized religions.

This connection between man and deity is infused with Hindu mythology, resulting in a rich tradition of literature. This literature has gone through a series of changes and additions starting with the Vedas and culminating in the Upanishads. It is interesting to note that throughout these pieces, there is a movement from rituals, to religious pursuits on the intellectual level and finally culminating in the climax of philosophical thinking of the time. Numerous other literatures exist, the most important of which are the Puranas, Mahabharab and Ramayana. The common theme throughout is the recognition of numerous Gods and higher beings.

Indeed Hinduism embraces Gods of many different make-ups and roles. From the all powerful...