engleski

Rudra-Shiva and Silvanus-Faunus: Savage and Propitious

Contemporary history of religion affirms that Roman Faunus and Silvanus represent the same divinity. This article argues for the Indo-European parallel between Faunus/Silvanus and Vedic Rudra/ Shiva based on several similarities. They both possess two names that should be interpreted thus: one as wild and savage (Silvanus/Rudra) and the other as favourable and propitious (Faunus/Shiva). The male divinity can appear in both the plural and the singular, or he can have a homonymous female counterpart (Faunus/Fauna/Fauni—Rudra/Rudrānī/Rudrās). They have a cult and abode distinct from other gods, closely associated with woods and wilderness. They are in special relation to animals, cattle, in particular. They have common abilities, such as to heal all creatures. Their destructive character puts them in relation to the god of war. Poetry is the function of Faunus while Rudra's sons, Maruts, accompanying Indra on his martial exploits, sing hymns of praise.

Faunus ; Silvanus ; Rudra ; Shiva ; Roman religion ; Roman mythology ; Vedic religion ; Vedic Mythology

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