Name: Danny Fe Masinadiong Course & Section: BSEDE2B

Date: October 9, 2023 Class Schedule: MWF, 11:00 AM – 12 NN

“Comparison of a Deity Across Pantheons:

Apollo and His Counterparts”

Introduction:
Greek mythology is like a treasure chest full of interesting stories about gods
and goddesses who had their own unique special powers and characteristics. One of
my favorite deities in Greek mythology is Apollo. He is the most famous god in Greek
mythology and is in charge of things like music, telling the future, and making people
healthy when they’re sick. In this essay, I will explore how Apollo is like some other
gods from different cultures. These other gods come from Japan, China, India,
Egypt, the Philippines, and Norway. I’ll see what they have in common with Apollo
and how people in these places think about these gods.
Body:
Japanese Pantheon – Amaterasu
In Japanese mythology, Amaterasu shines as Apollo’s counterpart. Amaterasu
is often thought of as the goddess of the sun in Shinto beliefs. Apollo, too, is linked to
sunlight because he’s pictured driving the sun’s chariot across the sky. Both Apollo
and Amaterasu have something to do with light. Apollo is often shown as driving the
sun’s chariot across the sky, while Amaterasu is believed to be the source of
sunlight, which represents life and good things. So, they are both connected to the
sun and light.
Chinese Pantheon- Taiyang Shen
In Chinese mythology, Apollo finds counterparts in Taiyang Shen, the god of
the sun. Taiyang Shen can be represented by either Houyi or Xihe, depending on the
story. Just like Apollo, Taiyang Shen is associated with the sun, which brings us
warmth and light. Apollo helps make the world bright and lively during the day, and
Taiyang Shen is responsible for the sunshine that makes plants grow and keeps us
warm. They both play important roles in keeping our world a bright and cheerful
place. Both of them are like the sun’s guardians, who have a role in providing energy
to the world.
Hindu Pantheon – Surya
In Hindu mythology, Apollo finds a counterpart in Surya, the Sun God. Just like
Apollo brings daylight and warmth, Surya does the same by rising in the morning
sky. They both help plants grow and provide light for the world. Apollo is known for
his ability to heal, and in a similar way, Surya is believed to have a purifying effect.
When people pray to Surya, they seek blessings for health and well-being. So, both
Apollo and Surya play roles in making people feel better. In a way, Apollo’s music
and poetry that teach good values can be compared to Surya’s influence, as he
symbolizes moral and ethical teachings through the brightness and order he brings
to the world.
Egyptian Pantheon – Ra
In Egyptian mythology, Apollo is somewhat similar to Ra, the sun god. Just like
Apollo, Ra is all about the sun and light. Both of them are like the bosses of
sunshine, making sure it’s bright and warm. While Apollo’s music and poetry, which
carry moral lessons, can be compared to Ra’s role in guiding the Egyptian people
with his wisdom. Just as Apollo is seen as a protector, Ra, too, safeguards his
people and maintains order.
Philippine Pantheon – Apolaki
In Filipino mythology, Apolaki is a sun god who shares some similarities with
Apollo. Apolaki is known for his radiant and powerful presence, much like Apollo’s
connection to the sun’s brilliance. Both Apolaki and Apollo embody strength and
courage, and they are seen as protectors and sources of inspiration in their
respective cultures. Apollo’s artistic talents and physical abilities make him a
multifaceted deity, while Apolaki is revered for his role in ensuring a prosperous and
safe life under the sun’s warmth and light.
Norse Pantheon – Baldr:
In Norse mythology, Baldr is a bright and pure god, much like Apollo. Baldr is
known for being kind and beloved by all, much as Apollo is celebrated for his
charisma and talents. Both Baldr and Apollo are symbols of beauty and goodness in
their respective pantheons, bringing light and positivity to the world.
Conclusion:
The comparison of Apollo with his counterparts across various pantheons
highlights the universal themes of light, life, and vitality that these deities represent.
Whether in Greek, Japanese, Chinese, Hindu, Egyptian, Filipino, or Norse
mythology, these gods share core attributes that resonate with human cultures
throughout history. While their specific roles and stories may differ, the reverence for
these sun and light deities illustrates the fundamental human need to worship the
sources of life and inspiration in the natural world. The diverse perspectives on
Apollo and his counterparts enrich our understanding of the cultural significance of
these deities around the world.