Japon Mitolojisindeki Kami İle Türk Mitolojisindeki İye Kavramlarının Mukayesesi

Abstract

Mythology has held a significant place in the socio-cultural and religious life of humanity from the past to the present. The motifs and cults found in myths often exhibit similarities. In this context, societies living in different geographies have developed either similar or unique mythological narratives. This study aims to examine these similarities and differences through a comparative analysis of the concepts of iye and kami. The primary objective is to reveal the meanings and functions of these two concepts within their respective belief systems and to contribute to the field of comparative mythology. The study is divided into three main sections. The first section defines the concepts of deity and mythology, focusing on the relationship between myths and other literary genres, as well as their distinctions. This section also touches upon similar protective spirits found in various cultures. The second section presents the historical backgrounds of Turkish and Japanese mythologies, explaining the meanings and functions of the concepts iye and kami. In the third and final section, common elements identified in both traditions are evaluated comparatively. During the analysis, the concept of iye in Turkish mythology will be examined within the framework of pre-Islamic belief systems, specifically shamanism and the belief in the Tengri. Japanese mythology, on the other hand, will be analyzed within the framework of the Shinto belief system. Accordingly, the meanings attributed to protective spirits, their relationship with nature, and their reflections in daily life will be explored in both mythological traditions.