In Norse mythology, Alfheim is one of the Nine Worlds, home to the light elves, beings associated with nature and beauty. Alfheim represents the connection between the divine and the earthly, symbolizing the harmony between different realms of existence.

A narrative that uses symbolic figures and actions to express deeper moral, spiritual, or political meanings.

A well-known trickster figure from Akan folklore, especially among the Ashanti people, often depicted as a spider. Anansi's stories involve cleverness and the ability to outsmart stronger foes.

The belief that objects, places, and creatures possess spiritual essence, often found in various indigenous mythologies.

Ancestral spirits or deities worshiped in pre-colonial Philippine societies, often honored in rituals and ceremonies to seek guidance and blessings for families and communities.

The attribution of human traits, emotions, or intentions to gods, animals, or inanimate objects in mythology or religious traditions.

The elevation of a mortal to divine status, often seen in myths where humans are transformed into gods or celestial beings, such as Romulus in Roman mythology or Arjuna in Indian myth.

Celestial nymphs in Hindu and Buddhist mythology, often depicted as beautiful dancers. Apsaras are associated with water and clouds, serving as courtiers in the heavens and embodying grace, beauty, and artistic skill.

A typical example or original model of a character, theme, or symbol that recurs across myths and stories.

The earth goddess in Akan mythology, representing fertility, agriculture, and the land. She is often considered the mother of all life.

Powerful beings or demonic forces in Indian mythology, often antagonistic to the gods (Devas). Asuras are frequently depicted in battles with the gods, as seen in mythological texts like the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

The individual soul or self in Hindu philosophy, considered eternal and identical with Brahman, the universal soul or supreme reality.

In Indian mythology, a deity's incarnation or manifestation on Earth, often to restore cosmic order. The term is also used more broadly to refer to any embodiment or representation of a concept or entity.

Sacred trees in Celtic culture, often seen as a bridge between the physical world and the spiritual realm. Bile trees, such as oaks or yews, were revered as symbols of life, death, and rebirth, and often served as places of worship.

In Mahayana Buddhism, a being who has attained enlightenment but chooses to remain in the cycle of rebirth to help others achieve liberation. Bodhisattvas embody compassion and selflessness, guiding others on the path to enlightenment.

The ancient legal system of early Ireland, which governed everything from property rights to social obligations. Many of these laws were influenced by mythological beliefs and the respect for nature and the supernatural.

 A magical cauldron in Celtic mythology, often attributed to gods like the Dagda. It is said to have the power to provide endless food and sustenance, symbolizing abundance and rebirth

A symbol combining a cross with a circle, representing the intersection of the spiritual and physical realms in Celtic culture. The Celtic cross is often associated with Christianity but also carries pre-Christian meanings related to the cycles of life and nature.

A symbolic vessel found in various European mythologies, often associated with fertility, life, and the divine feminine. The chalice represents the nurturing aspects of nature and the sacredness of life-giving forces.

Pertaining to deities or spirits associated with the earth, the underworld, or the dead, such as the Greek goddess Hecate or the Aztec god Mictlantecuhtli.

A mythological or religious account of the origin and creation of the universe or cosmos

A trickster figure common in various Native American myths, symbolizing cleverness and adaptability. The coyote often plays a dual role as a creator and a deceiver, embodying the complexities of life and morality.

A traditional story that explains the origins of the world, humanity, or a particular culture. These myths often involve gods or cosmic events, such as the emergence of the world from a cosmic egg.

A figure who embodies the ideals and values of a particular culture, often credited with founding a society or bringing important knowledge or skills.

A divine being or god, often worshipped and revered in various religious or mythological traditions.

A being who is part divine and part mortal, often the offspring of a god and a human. Examples include Hercules from Greek mythology and Gilgamesh from Sumerian myth.

A complex and multifaceted concept in Indian philosophy, dharma refers to the moral law and duty governing individual conduct and social order. It encompasses righteousness, ethical behavior, and the responsibilities one has towards family, society, and oneself, varying according to context, caste, and stage of life.

The practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the will of the gods through supernatural means, such as reading omens, interpreting dreams, or consulting oracles

The ancient Egyptian god of wisdom, writing, and magic, also known as Thoth. He is often depicted as an ibis or baboon and played a crucial role in the Egyptian pantheon.

A handmade object traditionally used by Native Americans to protect individuals from negative dreams and spirits. Dreamcatchers are often crafted with a circular frame and a woven net, adorned with feathers and beads, symbolizing the filtering of dreams.

A mythological motif found in various North American creation stories where a being dives into the primordial waters to retrieve soil, enabling the creation of land. This narrative often reflects themes of transformation and the interconnectedness of life.

A lengthy narrative poem, often detailing the adventures of heroic figures and significant cultural events.

A descriptive phrase or title associated with a character, often highlighting a specific attribute or quality.

The study or belief concerning the end of the world or the final events in human history, often involving divine judgment or transformation.

A concept in various European mythologies that refers to a predetermined course of events governing human lives. Often personified by beings such as the Norns in Norse mythology or the Moirai in Greek mythology, fate represents the inevitability of destiny and the interconnectedness of choices.

Mythological beings that control the destiny of humans and gods, often represented as a group of three female figures. Examples include the Greek Moirai and the Norse Norns.

A character from folklore or mythology who represents the ideals and values of a particular culture, often possessing extraordinary abilities and embodying moral virtues.

The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, often passed down orally.

A traditional story that conveys cultural morals, lessons, or beliefs, often featuring common people or animals as protagonists.

A magical taboo or prohibition in Irish mythology, which, when violated, brings misfortune or even death. Heroes like Cú Chulainn were often bound by geasa, which added complexity to their stories.

A term used by many Native American tribes to describe a supreme being or the universal spirit that connects all forms of life. The Great Spirit is often seen as a source of wisdom, guidance, and protection.

In Māori belief, Hau is the spirit of the wind, symbolizing life and the movement of energy. It is often associated with the breath of life and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.

A mortal or semi-divine figure in mythology known for their extraordinary strength, courage, or achievements, often embarking on quests or adventures.

One of the four major Celtic festivals, traditionally held on February 1st, marking the beginning of spring. It is associated with the goddess Brigid and celebrates fertility, renewal, and the lengthening of days.

Spirit beings in Hopi and Pueblo cultures, representing various natural elements, ancestors, or gods. Kachinas are celebrated through dances and ceremonies, believed to bring blessings, fertility, and prosperity to the community.

In Kongo mythology, Kalunga represents the boundary between the world of the living and the dead, often symbolized by a vast body of water. It is both a deity and a concept associated with the afterlife and spiritual transition.

A fundamental concept in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, referring to the law of cause and effect where one's actions (good or bad) influence future outcomes, including reincarnation.

A term in Papua New Guinean mythology referring to a bird or a deity associated with creation and the earth. The Kumul is often viewed as a guardian spirit, symbolizing the connection between the land and its people.

A traditional story or narrative, often based on historical events, but embellished with mythical elements and passed down through generations.

Spirits in Haitian Vodou and other Afro-Caribbean religions, often syncretized with African deities. They act as intermediaries between humans and the supreme god, Bondye.

A water spirit venerated in West and Central African traditional religions, as well as in the African diaspora. She is associated with fertility, healing, and wealth, and often appears as a beautiful woman or mermaid.

A spiritual force or power that resides in people, objects, and the environment. In many Oceanic cultures, mana is believed to be the source of authority, influence, and life, and it can be gained or lost through actions and rituals.

A spiritual force or being in Algonquian belief systems, representing the spirit that exists in all things, whether living or non-living. Manitou is often associated with nature and the divine presence in the world.

A sacred syllable, word, or phrase in Hinduism and Buddhism, believed to have spiritual power and often used in meditation or rituals. Famous mantras include "Om" and the Gayatri Mantra..

A traditional recitation that describes the creation of the world and the arrival of life. This chant often includes references to deities, natural elements, and the ancestral connections that shape Māori identity and worldview.

The ultimate goal in Hindu philosophy, representing liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara), and union with the divine or universal consciousness.

Also known as the "Hero's Journey," a common narrative structure in myths where a hero goes on an adventure, faces trials, achieves victory, and returns transformed. Coined by Joseph Campbell.

A group of related myths that revolve around a specific theme, character, or event, often forming a coherent narrative, like the Arthurian legends or the Mahabharata.

The common patterns and forms found in myths, including themes, character roles, and narrative arcs that recur across cultures.

he traditional stories, legends, and beliefs that form the foundation of a particular mythology or cultural narrative.

A class of serpent-like beings in Indian mythology, often depicted as semi-divine creatures. Nagas are associated with water bodies and are known to have great wisdom and power. Some are benevolent protectors, while others can be malevolent, depending on the myth. Famous Nagas include Shesha and Vasuki.

In some mythologies, these are hybrid beings, often part human and part divine, typically depicted as giants or offspring of gods and mortals, such as in Biblical or Mesopotamian traditions.

Ancestral spirits in the Dogon mythology of Mali, described as amphibious, fish-like beings that descended from the sky. They play a central role in Dogon cosmology and creation myths.

A mystical force or spiritual energy in the Bambara and other West African traditions, believed to reside in all living beings and natural elements, often associated with magic and the power to influence the world.

An early medieval alphabet used primarily to write the early Irish language. Ogham is often associated with druidic knowledge, and its symbols were believed to have mystical and divinatory significance.

Divine spirits or deities in Yoruba religion, each governing different aspects of nature, humanity, and the cosmos. Examples include Shango, god of thunder, and Oshun, goddess of love and rivers.

A mystical realm in Celtic mythology where gods, spirits, and fairies reside. It is often depicted as a paradise-like place that can be reached through magical portals, and is sometimes associated with the afterlife.

The collective group of gods and goddesses worshipped in a particular mythology or religion, often organized hierarchically.

The belief in or worship of a collection of gods within a particular culture's pantheon, without necessarily prioritizing one deity over another.

Referring to ancient gods or forces that existed at the beginning of time or the universe, often involved in the creation myths, like Chaos in Greek mythology or Tiamat in Babylonian myth.

A term from Samoan mythology referring to a sacred or divine law that governs moral conduct and social order. Pule emphasizes the importance of community, respect for the ancestors, and adherence to traditional values.

A sage or seer in Indian mythology, often credited with composing the Vedic hymns and having deep spiritual insight. Famous rishis include Vishwamitra and Vashistha.

A set of prescribed actions or ceremonies performed in a religious or mythological context, often intended to honor deities or mark significant events.

The letters of the runic alphabets used in ancient Germanic languages, often imbued with mystical significance. In mythology, runes are believed to possess magical properties and are used in divination, spells, and inscriptions to invoke powers or convey messages.

A symbol of unity and wholeness in many Indigenous cultures, representing the interconnectedness of all life. The sacred circle is often used in rituals and ceremonies, signifying the cyclical nature of existence.

Writings considered holy and authoritative within a particular religious or mythological tradition, such as the Vedas in Hinduism or the Iliad in Greek mythology

The ritual offering of food, objects, or lives to a deity or supernatural being to gain favor or appease them, commonly practiced in ancient cultures and mythological stories.

A long, detailed narrative of historical or legendary events, often involving heroes and cultural heritage.

An important Celtic festival marking the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter, usually celebrated on October 31st. It was believed to be a time when the veil between the physical world and the Otherworld was thinnest, allowing spirits to cross over. This festival later influenced Halloween traditions.

A form of pre-Christian Norse magic associated with prophecy and altering fate. Practiced primarily by women, seidr involves rituals and trance states to communicate with the spirit world, embodying themes of wisdom, transformation, and the unknown.

The divine feminine power or energy in Hinduism, often personified as the goddess Parvati, Durga, or Kali. Shakti represents the active, dynamic principles of the universe..

A mythical being or deity capable of changing its form or appearance, often to disguise or deceive others. Examples include Loki in Norse mythology and Proteus in Greek mythology.

The fairy mounds or hills in Celtic mythology, believed to be portals to the Otherworld. The term is also used to refer to the fairy folk themselves, such as the Aos Sí or Tuatha Dé Danann, who are said to live in these mounds.

A central figure in some Native American creation myths, representing the earth and fertility. Sky Woman often embodies the nurturing aspects of nature and plays a vital role in the creation of the world and its inhabitants.

An object or element that represents a deeper meaning, commonly used in mythological narratives to convey complex ideas.

The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, commonly found in mythological narratives.

The merging of different religious, cultural, or philosophical beliefs into a cohesive system.

A specific type of myth that explains how a particular element of the world came to be, such as a species, place, or natural phenomenon.

Objects believed to possess magical powers or divine properties, often used for protection, good luck, or connecting with spiritual forces in various mythologies.

A system of restrictions or prohibitions that govern social behavior, often associated with sacredness or spirituality. Tapu applies to various aspects of life, including food, places, and individuals, and violating it can bring spiritual or social repercussions.

A term that translates to "the fish of Māui," representing the North Island of New Zealand. This term embodies the myth of Māui, who is said to have fished up the islands, symbolizing the connection between the land and its cultural heritage.

A recurring subject, theme, or idea in mythology that holds significance and contributes to the overall narrative.

A narrative that describes the origins and genealogies of the gods within a specific mythology.

A powerful spirit in various Native American cultures, often associated with storms and thunder. The Thunderbird is viewed as a protector and a symbol of strength, embodying the forces of nature and the spiritual world.

An object, animal, or symbol representing a clan, tribe, or group, often considered sacred and embodying the spiritual essence of that group.

A dramatic narrative that portrays the downfall of a hero or significant figure, often exploring themes of fate and human suffering.

 A mischievous or cunning figure in mythology who uses intelligence and deception to challenge the status quo, often breaking rules or norms. Examples include Loki from Norse mythology and Anansi from African folklore.

The trinity of the three most important deities in Hinduism: Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer). They represent the cosmic functions of creation, maintenance, and destruction.

A race of supernatural beings in Irish mythology, often seen as gods or highly skilled warriors and magicians. They are closely associated with the Otherworld and are believed to have brought advanced knowledge and magic to Ireland.

A realm or dimension in mythology where souls go after death, often ruled by a deity associated with death or the afterlife, such as Hades in Greek mythology.

An idealized society or place often described in myths, representing humanity's aspirations for perfection.

In Indian mythology, a divine vehicle or mount used by gods and goddesses, symbolizing their attributes and powers.

A concept of well-being or holistic health in Māori culture, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of life. Waiora signifies the importance of balance and harmony in an individual's life and community.

A cosmic tree found in various mythologies, symbolizing the connection between different realms of existence, such as the heavens, Earth, and the underworld.

A comprehensive perspective through which individuals or cultures interpret and understand the world around them.

A concept in Anglo-Saxon and Norse mythology that refers to the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. Wyrd embodies the idea of fate and destiny, emphasizing the influence of one's actions on the unfolding of life events.

A fundamental concept in Chinese philosophy representing dualism and balance in the universe. Yin embodies femininity, darkness, and passivity, while Yang represents masculinity, light, and activity. Together, they symbolize the interconnectedness of opposites.

A division of time in Hindu cosmology, referring to one of the four ages or epochs in the cycle of the universe: Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dvapara Yuga, and Kali Yuga.

In Malagasy mythology (Madagascar), the supreme creator god who governs the universe and is responsible for the creation of human beings and the natural world.