Izanami vs. Athena: The Truth About Real Gods in Mythology

Introduction

The concept of gods and goddesses has fascinated humanity for centuries, and various cultures across the globe have each developed their own pantheons. Among these, the Greek and Roman deities, along with countless others from different regions, have captured the imagination. However, if one were to consider the verisimilitude of these deities, the Japanese goddess Izanami and other deities from Japan’s Shinto tradition stand out. This article explores why Izanami makes more sense as a ‘real’ god than Athena or any Greek, Roman, or European mythological being, delving into the nature of mythology and the criteria for defining a 'real' god.

Understanding the Myths

The Greek and Roman pantheons, despite their richness and influence, are often shrouded in historical and cultural contexts that make them less relatable from a cosmic or universal standpoint. For instance, Athena is the daughter of Zeus, born from his head, which is a symbolic and poetic origin story rather than one rooted in empirical or verifiable truth. In contrast, the Shinto deities, including Izanami, have origins deeply rooted in the natural world, a seamless integration with the environment and human life.

The Role of Nature in Shinto Deities

Shinto, the indigenous religion of Japan, is centered around reverence for nature and the ancestors. Izanami, the consort of the god of the land, Izanagi, was created from the divine spear that formed Japan and brought the archipelago into existence. This narrative is deeply embedded in the geographical and cultural landscape of Japan, making the site of the gods (Ise Grand Shrine, for instance) feel integral to the country's identity. The connection between the divine and the natural in Shinto belief provides a strong sense of reality that resonates with many believers, making these deities feel more 'real' than their counterparts in Greek or Roman mythologies.

Verification and Reality in Mythology

The concept of a 'real' god in mythology is multifaceted. While gods and goddesses are not tangible beings in the scientific sense, they serve a purpose in their respective mythologies. One criterion for considering the 'reality' of a deity is the extent to which they influence and affect the lives of people who revere them. Izanami, for instance, is associated with the afterlife and childbirth, two crucial aspects of human existence that people have genuinely grappled with through history. In this sense, she is 'real' in the lived experiences of her followers.

The Disproven Theory of Europids

It is worth noting the term 'Europid' used in the opening paragraph. This term, now obsolete, refers to an earlier racial classification that has since been disproven by scientific consensus. The classification was based on the belief in biological races, a theory that is now widely recognized as flawed. The Europan archetype, promoted during the 19th and early 20th centuries, was a romanticized ideal of Western culture, often seen as superior. This idealization, however, is rooted in historical and cultural biases rather than scientific fact. As such, it is important to approach discussions about deities and mythologies with an open mind, without the influence of outdated racial theories.

Conclusion

The question of whether Izanami is a 'real' god compared to Athena or other deities from various mythologies is more complex than it might seem at first glance. The verisimilitude of a deity can be measured against various criteria, from cultural relevance to the deep connection with the natural world. In this regard, Izanami stands out as a deity that has a profound and enduring impact on the lives and beliefs of those who revere her, making her a more 'real' god in the context of her mythological world.