Creation Myths.
Read the Creation Myths. Each origin story offers explanations of various aspects or characterizations of life and culture. Some offer explanations as to how various races came to be. Some offer more of a ethnocentric view of the "chosen peoples" versus those that are not apart of the tribe, ethnicity, or nation. Some offer a more harmonious understanding of people. Some offer the Gods as great animals, some fashion God or Gods as anthropomorphic (taking on the image of man). Each choice of what goes into the story stresses some significant value. If a great raven is God, how does that stress importance and value of ravens? If God is female, then what does that cause listeners to value femininity? First read these Origin Stories, then complete the discussion assignment (Creation Myths Discussion I). Then do the following:
Go on a walk, preferably in nature (a park, a trail in the woods, or just around the block if you have to).
Think about what is present that is not man made. Think of the earth in an "unadulterated state" (goodness--that is a loaded term). Think of what you see that is wilderness, that is nature birds, dirt, sand, trees, etc…
Think of how you would create an origin story (origin myth) to account for it.
Do you choose to have a God/ Gods in the story?
How is the earth fashioned?
How are humans fashioned?
What other things to you account for?
Sample Solution
My Origin Story: The Earth's Tapestry
In the beginning, there was only the vast, empty expanse. The Earth, a sleeping giant, lay dormant, waiting for its awakening.
The Weavers of Life
Two powerful beings, the Windweaver and the Earthweaver, descended upon the sleeping Earth. The Windweaver, swift and agile, breathed life into the air, filling it with the energy and vitality that would sustain all living things. The Earthweaver, patient and nurturing, shaped the land, creating mountains, valleys, rivers, and oceans.
Full Answer Section
The Emergence of Life From the Earth's fertile womb, the first seeds were planted. The Windweaver carried these seeds across the land, nurturing them with his breath. The Earthweaver watched over them, ensuring they had the nourishment they needed to grow. Animals emerged from the Earth, their forms shaped by the Windweaver and their spirits guided by the Earthweaver. Birds soared through the sky, their songs filling the air. Fish swam in the oceans, their scales shimmering in the sunlight. And on the land, creatures of all shapes and sizes roamed freely. The Creation of Humankind Finally, the Windweaver and the Earthweaver decided to create beings in their own image. They fashioned humans from the Earth itself, breathing life into them. Humans were given the gift of intelligence, creativity, and a deep connection to the natural world. The Tapestry of Life The Earth, once a dormant giant, had awakened. The Windweaver and the Earthweaver had woven a beautiful tapestry of life, with each thread representing a different species, each color a unique characteristic. Humans, as the most recent addition to the tapestry, were tasked with caring for the Earth and all its inhabitants. Key Elements of the Story:- Dual Creation Forces: The story emphasizes the balance and interdependence of natural forces.
- Anthropomorphic Deities: While not explicitly divine, the Windweaver and Earthweaver possess human-like qualities, suggesting a connection between humanity and nature.
- Emphasis on Harmony: The story promotes a harmonious relationship between humans and the natural world.
- Respect for All Life: The creation of diverse species highlights the value of all living things.
- Human Responsibility: The story places a responsibility on humans to care for and protect the Earth.