Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Eastern Mythology—Zoroaster—Hindu Mythology—Castes—Buddha—Grand Lama explained
This chapter surveys Eastern religious and mythological traditions, beginning with Zoroastrianism's dualistic cosmology of Ormuzd and Ahriman, its simple rites, and its survival among the Parsees.
What happens
This chapter surveys Eastern religious and mythological traditions, beginning with Zoroastrianism's dualistic cosmology of Ormuzd and Ahriman, its simple rites, and its survival among the Parsees. It then examines Hindu mythology based on the Vedas, the Trimurti of Brahma, Vishnu, and Siva, the caste system, and the Avatars of Vishnu. The chapter also covers the life and teachings of Buddha, his rejection of the Vedas and caste, and the spread of Buddhism. Finally, it discusses the doctrine of the Grand Lama and voluntary divine incarnations.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional peak of Tristram’s brief reunion with…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Cultural Transmission and Education
The chapter details the transmission of Zoroastrian, Hindu, and Buddhist religious traditions, including the preservation of sacred texts like the Zendavesta and Vedas, and the spread of Buddhism across Asia.
- Mortality and Immortality
The Hindu concept of the soul as a portion of the supreme ruler, the cycle of rebirth, and the Buddhist view of existence as misery due to past sins are central to the chapter's discussion of life, death, and spiritual liberation.
Key passages
“Zoroaster taught the existence of a supreme being, who created two other mighty beings and imparted to them as much of his own nature as seemed good to him.”
Zoroaster believed in one supreme god who created two powerful beings, giving them a share of his own essence.
Explains the dualistic creation in Zoroastrianism.
“The human soul, according to the Vedas, is a portion of the supreme ruler, as a spark is of the fire.”
The Vedas teach that the human soul is a fragment of the supreme god, like a spark from a flame.
Illustrates the Hindu concept of the soul's divine origin.
“Buddha... having found a secure retreat, lived for six years undisturbed in his devout contemplations.”
After escaping his guards, Buddha meditated in seclusion for six years.
Describes Buddha's period of ascetic meditation before his teaching.
