Myth and Ritual School
Quick Summary
The Myth and Ritual school of thought in religious studies posits a strong connection between myths and rituals. Scholars in this school, particularly prominent in the early to mid-20th century, focused on the ancient Middle East and the concept of sacred kingship and New Year festivals. They argued that myths often served to explain or justify existing rituals, with the myth providing a narrative explanation for the actions performed in the ritual.12
For example, the Babylonian creation epic Enuma elish was believed to have been recited during the New Year's festival, with the myth articulating the cosmic order that the ritual reenacted. While the idea that ritual always precedes myth is debated, the school emphasized that myths and rituals are deeply intertwined, with myths often reflecting and validating the customs and beliefs central to a society's way of life.132
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