Mythology, poetry and theology

Alphonso Groenewald

doi:10.4102/hts.v62i3.391

Abstract

Human beings have always been mythmakers. However, in view of the heavy negative connotations attached to the word “myth”, the aim of this article may, inter alia, be seen as an attempt to “rehabilitate” the word “myth” as a positive term in order to describe one of the most common genres within the Old Testament tradition. The author will indicate that the presence of myth is a common phenomenon in the Bible, and specifically in the Psalter (as poetry). The authors of the Psalms used (re-used) myth, the “mythical” and/or mythical allusions in order to express some of their most profound theologising about Yahweh – the God of Israel – as well as their relationship to that God.

Highlights

Myth has been increasingly recognised as an important theological medium, and is seen as part and parcel of the biblical tradition; the Old Testament tradition
This article is, not offered in the hope that suddenly a bright light will shine on every mythological crux in the Old Testament, but rather with the aim of presenting an overview of myth, as well as some of the definitions offered for this literary genre
Parts of the Old Testament have been classified by many scholars as “myth” or “mythology”

Summary

INTRODUCTION

From a very early date, it appears that homo sapiens were distinguished by their ability to have ideas that went beyond their everyday experience (Armstrong 2005:2) Myth has been increasingly recognised as an important theological medium, and is seen as part and parcel of the biblical tradition; the Old Testament tradition. It seems that scholars have gained a new appreciation for the ancient genres in which biblical authors wrote. This article is, not offered in the hope that suddenly a bright light will shine on every mythological crux in the Old Testament, but rather with the aim of presenting an overview of myth, as well as some of the definitions offered for this literary genre.

DEFINING MYTH

MYTH AND THE OLD TESTAMENT

THE “MYTHICAL” IN THE PSALMS

CONCLUDING REMARKS