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What is the oldest folklore story that still exists in the world of mythology and spirituality?

Cloe Ridgewell

The oldest folklore story that still exists in the world of mythology and spirituality is a fascinating topic to explore. The truth is, it is difficult to pinpoint one specific story that stands out as the oldest because folklore is a product of oral tradition. However, there are compelling stories that have survived for thousands of years and continue to be retold to this day.

One such story is the Epic of Gilgamesh. This ancient Mesopotamian tale follows the adventures of King Gilgamesh and his search for immortality. Written on clay tablets around 2100 BCE, it is considered one of the earliest known works of literature and has been translated into various languages. However, it cannot be considered a concise encapsulation of spirituality or a mythological belief as it chronicles a mortal’s adventures and how the universe is stacked against them.

Another story that has survived the test of time is the Egyptian creation myth. The story of the god Atum who created the world by singing it into existence is one of the oldest recorded creation myths. Written on tombs from the Old Kingdom period, this mythological story has been passed down for 4,000 years and it has inspired different practices in ancient Egypt. Upon testing its authenticity, it is found that it finds relevance among different mythologies and beliefs of the ancient times and can be used as a powerful tool for comparative mythology and spirituality.

Then there is the Greek mythology, which has given us countless stories that have shaped Western culture. The Iliad and the Odyssey, written by Homer in the 8th century BCE, are examples of mythological narratives that have endured. The Trojan myth which has also survived for more than 2000 years provides a framework on understanding how humanity has evolved in its interaction with gods, the place of prophesy, and the interactions of Olympians among humans.

In conclusion, stories that continue to survive in the modern world are often understood as being a testament to their endurance because of their ability to adapt within different cultures and are able to spark new discussions. Its significance varies depending on what people take away from these tales, however, regardless of religious or cultural background, people are likely to find something that resonates with them in these tales. As such, the oldest folklore story in the world of mythology and spirituality is a topic that keeps researchers and enthusiasts busy.