Mito e desmitização em Gn 1

Abstract

It has been recognized and accepted for a long time that the Priestly description of creation incorporates mythical elements. Recountings ot the origin of the world and of creation are found not only in the advanced cultures of Egypt and Mesopotamia but also in the so-called primitive cultures. Stories about the beginning of the world may be found in every corner of the earth. For this reason, neither the Babylonian nor any other culture may be said to have had exclusive influence in the narrative of Gen 1. We know also of the artistic privilege exercized by the biblical poets in availing themselves of mythical concepts, in contrast to the reserve of the Priestly writer. P demythises intentionally and with particular emphasis two points: plants and stars. After Hosea, it was in the last years of the monarchy and during the exile that the rites of fertility were attacked (Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Deuteronomist). The cult of the stars is ignored by the ancient writers, but is severely criticized by these authors, as well as in Deutero-Isaiah.