Sumerian and Mayan Cultural Similarities

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Table of Contents

Cultural Similarities
Rituals Importance
Myth Similarities
References

Cultural Similarities

The Sumerian and Mayan cultures demonstrate not only the rapid growth of societies but indicate human nature in general. Massive stone structures and pyramids, ornate artwork, and a sophisticated hieroglyphic language were all produced by the Maya civilization (Suleimenov et al., 2018). In turn, the Sumerian population made significant contributions to human progress by growing and breeding cattle, weaving textiles, experimenting with pottery and woodwork, and brewing (Suleimenov et al., 2018). As for the meaning of such similarities, both cultures honored the origin and holiness of humans, the earth, and all other sacred objects (Suleimenov et al., 2018). The establishment of religious philosophy could also separate the good from the bad since all wrong actions were punished. These people believed that the evil spirits might be freed from the netherworld and harm them (Suleimenov et al., 2018). Moreover, the use of hieroglyphic systems by these cultures might show the vitality of stories and the desire to retain them and create writing for further generations. Lastly, the emphasis on agriculture might demonstrate the importance of regular sustenance and shift from hunting to a comprehensive agricultural system. In general, such characteristics of Sumerian and Mayan cultures define the human condition as a system that targets progress and convenience.

Rituals Importance

Shared rituals have a major effect on communities despite time or nation. All societies that have been observed by mankind have rituals. First, it is noteworthy that rituals define the identity of each person by illuminating their origins and connecting them to the past. However, rituals transcend the mere purpose of teaching people history and cultural background. They also bring people together, offer them a sense of belonging to something special, make people a part of something bigger, and provide them with the support needed while facing adversity (Rokach, 2020). Aside from the most common worshipping rituals, such systems also encompass initiation rituals, repentance and purification ceremonies, dedication rituals, marriages, funerals, and many more (Rokach, 2020). In my culture, which is American culture, among shared rituals are holidays, such as Thanksgiving Day or Martin Luther Jr.’s Day, and religious rituals, such as marriage or baptism. There is vital importance to engage in these ceremonies and rituals on a regular basis since rituals help to maintain a sense of belonging only when they are a part of people’s everyday lives. Otherwise, the sense of unity and connection will disappear, making the gap between the representatives of the community wider.

Myth Similarities

Ever since the origin of human civilizations, the question regarding the similarities of myths and religious motifs among various societies has been raised. The reason for the majority of historical faiths having many commonalities is that they offer answers to questions that people have regarding the world they live in and about life before and beyond death (Gosden and Knowles, 2020). Numerous deities have been given characters that are modeled by human personalities, and they also have issues and cultures that are similar to those of humans. As can be seen from different myths, deities can be vulnerable and murdered as well (Gosden and Knowles, 2020). Since human societies are in some ways similar to one another, myths may appear to share some similarities. However, human nature is not the only factor responsible for myth similarities. Aside from this, colonizations or typical features of communities can play a significant role in such a process, causing assimilation. In this sense, more powerful Indo-European nations influenced the communities on other continents (Gosden and Knowles, 2020). As a result, this led to the acquisition of colonizers’ cultures. Such perspectives that involve both human nature and global conquests can explain the similarities in myths.

References

Gosden, C., & Knowles, C. (2020). Collecting colonialism: Material culture and colonial change. Routledge.

Rokach, A. (2020). Belonging, Togetherness and Food Rituals. Open Journal of Depression, 9(4), 77.

Suleimenov, O. O., Bakhtikireeva, U. M., Dzhusupov, M., Valentinova, O. I., Dikhtyar, S. V., Dubrovina, M. E.,… & Ismailov, G. M. (2018). Word code. Polylinguality and Transcultural Practices, 15(1), 128-165.

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Sumerian and Mayan Cultural Similarities

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