This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
Among the ancient peoples who roamed the endless steppes of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, the Scythians occupied a special place. This warlike people left behind a rich heritage of which their mythology is a part. The central figure of the Scythian pantheon was Papai –, the supreme deity, who played a key role in their worldview.
Forefather, Creator, Thunderer
Papay (Greek. Παπαος) in Scythian mythology is an analogue of the Greek Zeus. Name itself "Papai" it has Iranian roots and translates as "father" or "grandfather". This emphasizes his role as the progenitor and creator not only of the world, but also of the entire Scythian people. According to their myths, Papai was the father of Targitai, the mythical ancestor of all Scythians.
Like Zeus, Papai was a heavenly thunder god. He wielded power over lightning and thunder, which indicates his connection with natural forces. This association was often reflected in archaeological finds: for example, some images of Papaya on the so-called "World Tree" are accompanied by bells that symbolize thunder.
Symbolism and Cult
Papai was a multifaceted deity who personified not only power over heaven, but also other important aspects of Scythian life:
- Patron of fertility: Being associated with the sky and precipitation, Papai was also considered the god of fertility, which was of critical importance for the agrarian component of their lives.
- Protector and patron: He was the protector of the Scythian community and family, as well as the patron of the soldiers, giving them victory. Some researchers even suggest that he may have had a second name – Targa related to the war.
- "World Tree" and Eagle: Papay was often depicted in the center of the composition of the "World Tree", which is a universal symbol of cosmic order and the connection between worlds. Above it are often found images of eagles – sacred birds, which personified the heavenly world and were closely related to this supreme deity.
The importance of Papaya for the Scythians
The image of Papaya was central to the religious system of the Scythians. He was not just one of the gods; he was the one who created the world and their people, who gave them strength and protection. His cult played an important role in shaping the worldview of the Scythians, their identity and their place in the world. Through Papaya, the Scythians understood the order in the universe, their history and their purpose.
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