Myth, Symbol, and Ritual in Religion

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses how myth, symbol, and ritual are all equally important in religion. Metaphorically referring to religion as a body and to myth as its feet, symbolism as its heart and ritual as its soul, the writer gives examples showing how each is integral to religion as a whole. All three can be found in practically every religious sect, and the writer further exemplifies their importance by showing what happens if one of them is excluded from a religion.

From the Paper:

"Myths help us to make sense of things, and also give us purpose. Myth as a story of creation is just as important as myths about the end of life. We look to myths to help solve the question of where we will go when we die. Some believe in reincarnation, while others believe in a version of heaven and hell. Either way, the myths of religion offer an explanation, and therefore purpose of life after death. This is why I refer to myth as being the feet of the body. The foundation and purpose of the faith is built on myth."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Pandian, Jacob. Supernaturalism in Human Life: A Discourse on Myth, Ritual and Religion.Vedams ebooks. 2002
• Schmidt, Roger. Exploring Religion. 2nd ed. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Inc., 1988.

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