Hi everyone!
I saw the post regarding Persephone worship, and it reminded me of it reminded me of some questions I have regarding Persephone’s myth and deity worship in general.
There is a modern version that describes the union of Persephone and Hades as mutual; that Persephone willingly descended into the Underworld (rebelling against Demeter, who was an overbearing mother) and fell in love with Hades. It appears that there’s a bit of controversy, because while myths are not set in stone, these are two drastically different versions of the story. Some people defend the modern version, saying that myths can change over time and that this newer retelling gives Persephone more autonomy, but others say that it’s unfair to Persephone and Demeter, because it erases the pain that they both suffered. Not to mention that Hades is also portrayed quite differently depending on the version you accept. I like the modern myth, but I don’t want to risk disrespecting Persephone either.
So, my questions are:
- What is the purpose of myths, especially when they’re not (from what I’ve heard) meant to be taken literally?
- How do we incorporate myth into our worship and practice when variants of myths exist?
- Is there a “right” myth that should guide our knowledge of deities?
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Merry meet Sophitsa!
I don’t see where anyone responded, so I thought I’d throw in my two-cents worth. I believe myths were/are created to explain things in a way that is easier to understand, accept, and remember. There are myths for everything from moral and ethical behavior to the sidhe, gnomes, and gods and goddesses. We are not the pinnacle of evolution, merely one small blip on the infinite plane of existence. It is important that our mythology grow with us and be adapted to fit our modern circumstances. As far as taking a myth literally, you may want to consider that many of them began in a time before the written word, passed orally from generation to generation, person to person, across different cultures and widely varying belief systems and languages, reflecting the limitations, prejudices and bias of the bard (and it continues today).
The specific myths you choose should be ones that validate and strengthen your individual beliefs. Like a buffet, pick and choose, don’t be afraid to try something new, and don’t be afraid to discard what isn’t working. You simply must use your intuition.
If after much research, study, reflection, and meditation a certain mythology doesn’t feel right to you, then it isn’t right for you. Some people have come to accept a popular falsehood that our religious beliefs determine our ethics and morality. Rational thought and prudent behavior are not dependent upon your chosen path, rather upon who you are as a person. If you feel drawn to a certain pantheon/god/goddess, interact with them, talk and listen. Don’t feel locked into anything. I personally believe that the most honest answer to whether there is a right myth to guide us is, “no”.
Brightest Blessings!