Myths
form the basis of religion. One aspect of the human mind that accompanied
the evolution of a high level of intelligence was an obsession with wanting
to know the answer to all possible questions. Why are we here? What is
the purpose of our existence? How did we come into being? Who created
us? Where do we go when we die?...In the times prior to the scientific
method, if we didn’t know the answer, we simply made up one. [p541]
Myth
and ritual are inseparable. Joseph Campbell, the master of myth, stated
that myths were the mental supports of ritual and rites and that rites
were the physical enactments of myths. [p543]
…Since
they are not based in fact myths can remain unchanged over the centuries
bringing a sense of stability and permanence in a changing world. By
contrast, scientific facts (logos) often change with new data. Mythos
is thus inherently more comforting than logos.
Rituals,
consisting of repetitious, rhythmic, chanting, singing, or prayer,
activate portions of the brain that enhance the sense of spirituality
and oneness with a supreme being and represent the physical enactment
of myths. Myths and rituals form an integral part of all religions. [p544]
