Criticisms of myths

Question 1

Examples of myths communicating contrasting ideas

Answer 1

• Genesis 1 - humans were created directly through divine will and are superior to all other species
• Japanese creation myth - humanity evolved from a polar bear God and the world was created by accident.

Question 2

The issue with the central claim of Christianity

Answer 2

Central claim is that Jesus’ resurrection was a unique event in history. There is several mythical parallels which therefore renders it not unique.

Question 3

The issue with myths changing over time

Answer 3

• As people’s ‘Sitz Im Leben’ changes the meaning attributed to myths changes.
• some myths die in terms of importance and new ones appear
• if a myth is no longer true, then the basis of religion is questionable

Question 4

The issue with the meaning not being fixed to the myth

Answer 4

If the meaning is not fixed to the myth, how can a myth have any meaning at all. Surely were are imposing meaning based on existing culture and norms.

Question 5

Why would myths be rejected nowadays?

Answer 5

They are fanatical and would be rejected by the modern mind searching for truth.

Question 6

What does Rudolf Bultmann suggest we do?

Answer 6

We should work at demythologising the Bible, because mythical stories just get in the way of faith for scientifically minded thinkers.

Question 7

What does Bultmann believe we would be left with if we demythologised?

Answer 7

A straightforward literal text - a Bible that clearly illustrates the essential truths of Christianity.

Question 8

How is Genesis 1 generally incompatible with science anyway?

Answer 8

Directly conflicts with evolutionary theory when it says God creates instantaneously and deliberately.