Studies of Ancient Iran

Studies of Ancient Iran

The Place of the Tree of Life in Iranian Mesopotamian beliefs and mythology

Document Type : Scientific - Research

Authors
1 Researcher
2 collegian
Abstract
The Tree of Life is a symbolic tree located in the middle of the world. This tree has a special place in the myths of nations and is repeated in different cultures. For the tree in mythological and symbolic approaches, the three main concepts of the cosmic tree and the tree of life and the tree of knowledge are mentioned. From prehistoric times, the image of the tree and its symbolism can be seen in Iranian and Mesopotamian art.. In this article, we will try to find answers to these questions: 1- What was man's view in ancient times about the death and rebirth of nature and how did he depict this cycle in the form of myth or fertility ritual in connection with the role of the sacred tree of life? 2- What is the common point of the tree in the beliefs and myths of the people of ancient Iran and Mesopotamia? Hypotheses: The motif of the sacred tree of life originated from the beliefs of the people and the myths and legends common at that time and has emerged in the artistic creations of the artists of the ancient world. In the above research, an attempt has been made with a descriptive-comparative historical method with the aim of recognizing the motifs of this tree and its related symbols in the beliefs of Iran and Mesopotamia in order to identify the components and more sub-motifs in harmony with this theme and the emergence and continuity of this life. Examine the archetype with its related symbols in the beliefs of the people of these two lands.
Keywords
Subjects

  • Receive Date 08 August 2022
  • Accept Date 30 August 2023
  • Publish Date 20 February 2024