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Symbols, Myths, and Rituals Explained

The document discusses the significance of symbols, myths, and rituals in society, highlighting the emotional power of symbols and their role in community cohesion. It references Emile Durkheim's work on the sacred and profane, emphasizing totemism and taboos as central to social values. Additionally, it explores myths as narratives that shape identity and the role of rituals in commemorating these stories through various cultural practices.

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chyf1030
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5 views7 pages

Symbols, Myths, and Rituals Explained

The document discusses the significance of symbols, myths, and rituals in society, highlighting the emotional power of symbols and their role in community cohesion. It references Emile Durkheim's work on the sacred and profane, emphasizing totemism and taboos as central to social values. Additionally, it explores myths as narratives that shape identity and the role of rituals in commemorating these stories through various cultural practices.

Uploaded by

chyf1030
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

SYMBOL, MYTH, AND RITUAL

TEXT

Symbols
What is the difference between a sign and a symbol?
TEXT

The symbol participates in what it signifies

Symbols command allegiance, and are emotionally powerful


Bringing people together into community
TEXT

Emile Durkheim (1858-1917)

The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life (1912)


– the sacred and the profane – collective rituals and bonds

totemism and “social cohesion”


totemism - a sacred, symbolic object, set apart from the normal
the totem represents values central to society > it symbolizes the
group
TEXT

Taboos
taboo – holy places or holy people who must be avoided or
not touched except at special times of the year
eg. the Ark of the Covenant
Food-related taboos – dietary restrictions
on pork, beef, fish
TEXT

Myth as a synonym for story

Stories help us make sense


of who we are, where we
came from, and where we
are going

narratives: about God/the


gods; about exemplary
humans (heroes);
cosmogonies (creation
stories)
TEXT

Ritual
-­‐  as the re-enactment of myths
-­‐  commemoration and sacred calendars
-­‐  rites of passage
-­‐  festivals

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