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Sinergy -> RE: Totems (4/20/2007 6:55:09 PM)
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I studied Joseph Campbell in college, both as adjuncts to Feminist Theory and comparative religion.
What I most appreciated about his works is the candor with which he scrutinized different cultures and religions, without argumentation. It was reading him, if I recall correctly, that religions which develop in the Desert (Mesopotamia, which includes Christianity, Islam, Judaism, etc) tend to follow the male archetype, and this archetype is stern and demanding and merciless in his punishment of those who disagree with it's edicts. It was somebody else who pointed out that this fact, above all other facts, explains the antithesis and conflicts between Christians to Muslims to Jews. In other words, their major issues and conflicts between these religions revolve around similarities, rather than differences.
He pointed out that those religions which developed in more forgiving lands, like New Guinea, Western Europe, etc., tend to worship the female (or mother) archetype. Their goddess promises life and plenty and the interconnectedness of all life. The lesson is to seek connection with and live within the system one is presented with, as opposed to viewing life and the system one lives in as something to be conquered.
He may be one of the reasons that when I study something today I try diligently to learn both the subject being presented and the context in which it developed.
I would have to say that my totem would be the Peregrine Falcon. It sees things from far away without judgement. I also see it as wandering with a sense of detachment from it all. It keeps it's own counsel. It goes where it will. It wanders far above the hustle and flow and tries to leave the smallest footprint on the land that it can. They mate for life and are extremely protective of their offspring.
Just me, could be wrong, but there you go.
Sinergy
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