Versions of Creation Myths - Essay Example

There are various creation myths that try to explain the origin of man and the world. The myths vary in detail, but all have some similarities such as the existence of natural powers and supreme creatures (gods). Some begin with the earth, and then gods and mankind emerge from it. In others, creation starts with creatures that dive into primeval oceans. They then bring pieces of earth from which the current universe is created.

The most common myths refer to a supreme creator. The thoughts, desires, and actions of the Supreme Being, God, brought the universe into existence. As explained in the book of Genesis of the Bible, God created the universe and all its components. The plants and animals multiplied to give rise to the current creatures. Another version of the myth explains the hatching of eggs as a kind of birth. The cosmic eggs contained seeds and possibilities of accomplishing everything. As soon as the eggs hatch, the possibilities take form in the form of animals, fish, and plants among others (“History-world” 2014).

There are myths that deduce creation from a state of disorder or primal chaos. In the Norse mythologies, for example, creation begins an emptiness of mist and wind until clouds form. They harden to form giant Ymir whose body is the world. Other primal chaos concentrates on the vast expanse of water and floods. Of interest is the Greek mythology that also begins with chaos. Gaia resulted from chaos and made or gave birth to the sky, Uranus. They produced Titans (plants, children, and animals) that later overthrew Uranus. The grandchildren (gods) of Uranus then defeated the Titans (Elliott 2014).

Although the myths differ, they all show that mankind was created from a form that did not exist before. The duties allocated to mankind after creation show his creation was to fill the earth and take care of the other creatures.