6 similarities between Greek and Hindu mythology

Percy Jackson, Clash of  the Titans, Wrath of the Titans, Troy, 300, The legend of Hercules, etc. have given us an insight into the Greek Mythology. It is one of the oldest mythologies known. It had immense influence on the Western Civilization and still holds a great place in the Western Heritage and languages. On the other hand, we all grew up with the stories from the Hindu Mythology and can relate to it. Sanskrit formed the basis of many languages including Hindi. Our mythology has inspired many cultures. Let’s have a look about the resemblance of Greek and Hindu mythology.

There are certain uncanny and striking similarities between the two mythologies that (if taken a closer look at) would change the way we view the cultures among nations.

Want to know the resemblance between Greek and Hindu mythology :

Indian mythology has a lot of resemblance with the ancient greek mythology, which follow the same priniciples and ultimately teaches holy traits.

1. Good vs Evil :

Both the mythologies portray the message that good triumphs evil. There is a constant struggle between the two. In Hindu mythology, we have Asuras and Devas. The Devas are the good Hindu gods that we dearly worship and Asuras are the chief creatures that torment the Devas. Similarly, the Gods of Mount Olympus represent good and the Titans represent evil.

Now the interesting thing is that both good and evil are fathered by the same man. In Hindu mythology the father of both Devas and Asuras was Kashyapa and in Greek Mythology both Gods and Titans are fathered by Cronus.

2. The rule of Three :

In the Hindu Mythology there are three most powerful gods Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. They are considered above all the other gods and are feared by everyone. They were the rulers of the universe. Brahma is known as the creator of the Universe, Vishnu as the preserver of the world and civilization and, Shiva as the Destroyer who keeps the balance between the good and evil.

Similarly, in Greek Mythology, the pantheon had three most powerful gods who overthrew their father to become the ultimate rulers. Zeus or the God of Thunder and lightning, created humans. Poseidon is also known as the God of the Seas. Hades was tricked by his brothers and is considered the ruler of the underworld.

3. Zeus = Indra

In the Greek Mythology, Zeus is considered to be the King of Gods. Being the God of thunder and lightning, he is also the most powerful god of them all. He is a womanizer and the complete list of his lovers is longer than one can fathom.

Similarly, in Hindu Mythology, Indra is the King of Hindu Gods. He is also known as the God of thunder and rain. His love for his “Apsaras” is well-known.

4. Demigods = Avatars

Indian Mythology often speaks of Avatars or reincarnations. They were Gods taking birth in the form of mortal beings to fight for  humanity. Krishna, Ram, Ganesha are some of the most commonly known reincarnations that are worshiped as dearly as the real Gods they have descended from.

Parallel to this, the Greek Mythology has the concept of Demigods. They were the off-springs of a God with a mortal either forcefully or out of love. They are considered as the heroes of human race and are worshiped by all. Perseus, Achilles and Hercules are the most popular among them.

5. Hades = Yama

Yama  is the Hindu God of Death. It is said that he decides who would die and who would live. He is the carrier of the dead into heaven or hell.  He is also known as the lord of justice. He is sometimes viewed as the villain.

Similarly, the most virtuous Greek God is often recited as the villain. He lives in the underworld and is known for the sense of judgement that he carries so well. He might not the strongest of them all but he is certainly the most sensible.

6. Prophecies :

We have all heard the story of Lord Krishna and Kansa. Kansa being a powerful king was unquestionable. However, there was a prophecy that instilled fear in his soul. The prophecy said that his sister Devaki’s eighth son would dethrone Kansa and kill him. Since then, he imprisoned his sister and her husband Vasudeva and killed each of their children as soon as they were born. However, he failed to kill Lord Krishna and after many years of growing up in exile, Lord Krishna killed him.

Similarly, in Greek Mythology, there was a prophecy that one of Cronus’ children would be the end of his rule. After the prophecy, Kronos started swallowing all of his children as soon as they were born. However, his wife Rhea managed to save Zeus with the help of Cronus’ mother Gaia and sent him to grow up in exile. After growing up, he came back and overthrew his father and freed his siblings.

Too many similarities? There are a lot more than one can even imagine. But all of these imply only one thing. No matter the difference between borders, races, cultures, traditions, we are all humans connected by the same thread of life.