Baltic mythology > History

Baltic mythology, known as **Baltic paganism**, encompasses the rich tapestry of pre-Christian religious beliefs, rituals, deities, and folklore of the Baltic peoples, primarily the **Lithuanians** and **Latvians**. As one of the last regions in Europe to retain its indigenous pagan traditions well into the Christian era, Baltic mythology offers a unique and profound insight into the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Baltic region. This comprehensive exploration delves into the origins, pantheon, cosmology, mythological narratives, rituals, and enduring legacy of Baltic mythology, highlighting its significance within the broader context of European and Indo-European mythological traditions.

## Table of Contents

1. [Introduction](#introduction)
2. [Historical Context](#historical-context)
  - [Origins and Influences](#origins-and-influences)
  - [Christianization and Syncretism](#christianization-and-syncretism)
3. [Pantheon of Baltic Deities](#pantheon-of-baltic-deities)
  - [Dievas](#dievas)
  - [Perkūnas](#perkunas)
  - [Saule](#saule)
  - [Laima](#laima)
  - [Žemyna](#zemyna)
  - [Vėjopatis](#vejopatis)
  - [Other Significant Deities](#other-significant-deities)
4. [Cosmology and Creation Myths](#cosmology-and-creation-myths)
  - [The Structure of the Universe](#the-structure-of-the-universe)
  - [Creation Narratives](#creation-narratives)
5. [Mythological Narratives and Heroes](#mythological-narratives-and-heroes)
  - [Myths of Transformation and Origin](#myths-of-transformation-and-origin)
  - [Heroes and Legends](#heroes-and-legends)
6. [Mythological Creatures and Beings](#mythological-creatures-and-beings)
  - [Laumės](#laumes)
  - [Velnias](#velnias)
  - [Perkūnas’ Beasts](#perkunas-beasts)
  - [Other Mythical Entities](#other-mythical-entities)
7. [Rituals and Religious Practices](#rituals-and-religious-practices)
  - [Seasonal Festivals](#seasonal-festivals)
  - [Sacrificial Offerings](#sacrificial-offerings)
  - [Shamanistic Traditions](#shamanistic-traditions)
  - [Household and Agricultural Rituals](#household-and-agricultural-rituals)
8. [Symbolism and Sacred Objects](#symbolism-and-sacred-objects)
  - [Sacred Trees and Groves](#sacred-trees-and-groves)
  - [Symbols and Amulets](#symbols-and-amulets)
  - [Sacred Waters and Bodies](#sacred-waters-and-bodies)
9. [Comparative Analysis](#comparative-analysis)
  - [Baltic Mythology and Indo-European Traditions](#baltic-mythology-and-indo-european-traditions)
  - [Baltic vs. Slavic and Germanic Mythologies](#baltic-vs-slavic-and-germanic-mythologies)
10. [Legacy and Modern Revival](#legacy-and-modern-revival)
    - [Folklore and Literature](#folklore-and-literature)
    - [Neo-Paganism and Baltic Traditions Today](#neo-paganism-and-baltic-traditions-today)
    - [Cultural Heritage and Preservation](#cultural-heritage-and-preservation)
11. [Conclusion](#conclusion)
12. [References](#references)

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## Introduction

Baltic mythology stands as a testament to the enduring spiritual and cultural identity of the Baltic peoples, particularly the Lithuanians and Latvians. Unlike many other European regions, the Baltic area retained its indigenous pagan beliefs longer, with Lithuania officially maintaining its pagan religion until its conversion to Christianity in the late 14th century. This delayed Christianization allowed Baltic mythology to preserve a wealth of unique deities, myths, and rituals that offer valuable insights into the pre-Christian spiritual life of Northern Europe.

The mythology is deeply intertwined with the natural world, reflecting the Baltic peoples' close relationship with their environment. Elements such as weather phenomena, celestial bodies, and agricultural cycles are personified and deified, highlighting the society's dependence on and reverence for nature. Additionally, Baltic mythology exhibits remarkable similarities and differences compared to other Indo-European mythological systems, providing a fascinating area of study for comparative mythology enthusiasts.

## Historical Context

### Origins and Influences

Baltic mythology, like other mythological systems, likely has its roots in the broader **Indo-European** mythological tradition. However, over millennia, it has developed unique characteristics influenced by geographical, cultural, and historical factors specific to the Baltic region. The Baltic tribes, inhabiting areas around the **Baltic Sea** in present-day Lithuania, Latvia, and parts of Poland and Russia, maintained their pagan beliefs despite pressures from neighboring cultures and empires.

The early Baltic tribes practiced a form of animistic and polytheistic religion, venerating a pantheon of gods and spirits associated with natural elements and societal roles. Oral traditions, myths, and rituals were passed down through generations, ensuring the continuity and evolution of their spiritual practices.

### Christianization and Syncretism

The Christianization of the Baltic region began in earnest in the late **14th century** and continued into the **16th century**, primarily through the efforts of the **Teutonic Knights** and other Christian missionaries. The conversion process was often coercive, involving military conquest, social pressure, and the establishment of Christian institutions.

Despite the official imposition of Christianity, many pre-Christian beliefs and practices persisted, often merging with Christian elements in a process known as **syncretism**. This blending resulted in unique religious expressions that incorporated both pagan and Christian elements, allowing Baltic mythology to influence and be influenced by the dominant Christian narratives.

## Pantheon of Baltic Deities

Baltic mythology boasts a rich pantheon of gods and goddesses, each embodying different aspects of nature, human experience, and societal functions. Below are some of the most prominent deities within this mythological framework:

### Dievas

**Dievas** is the chief god in Baltic mythology, analogous to the sky gods found in other Indo-European traditions. He is considered the supreme deity, overseeing the cosmos and the order of the universe.

- **Attributes:** Dievas is often associated with the sky, thunder, and justice. He embodies the principles of law, morality, and cosmic order.
- **Symbolism:** Represented by celestial phenomena such as lightning and thunderbolts, Dievas signifies power, authority, and the unchanging laws of nature.
- **Role in Myths:** As the supreme god, Dievas plays a central role in creation myths, maintaining balance and order, and intervening in human affairs to uphold justice and morality.

### Perkūnas

**Perkūnas** is the god of thunder, storms, and the warrior spirit. He is one of the most revered and powerful deities in Baltic mythology.

- **Attributes:** Perkūnas wields thunderbolts, rides a chariot pulled by goats, and is often depicted with a hammer or axe.
- **Symbolism:** Associated with strength, protection, and the destructive and creative forces of nature, Perkūnas represents both the ferocity of storms and the resilience of life.
- **Role in Myths:** Perkūnas is frequently involved in battles against chaos and evil, protecting the cosmic order and the righteous. He is also invoked for protection against natural disasters and evil spirits.

### Saule

**Saule** is the goddess of the sun, embodying light, warmth, and life. She is a central figure in Baltic cosmology, symbolizing the life-giving and sustaining power of the sun.

- **Attributes:** Saule is depicted as a radiant goddess, often adorned with a crown of rays or accompanied by solar symbols such as the sun wheel.
- **Symbolism:** She represents vitality, growth, and the cyclical nature of life and seasons. Saule's journey across the sky is seen as a metaphor for the renewal and continuity of life.
- **Role in Myths:** Saule's daily journey is a key element in creation myths, agricultural cycles, and fertility rituals. She is celebrated in various festivals that mark the solstices and equinoxes, reflecting her importance in agricultural and seasonal practices.

### Laima

**Laima** is the goddess of fate, luck, and childbirth. She plays a crucial role in determining the destinies of individuals and communities.

- **Attributes:** Laima is often portrayed with symbols of fortune, such as stars, coins, or threads that weave the fabric of fate.
- **Symbolism:** She embodies the unpredictable and inexorable nature of destiny, influencing both personal lives and broader societal events.
- **Role in Myths:** Laima is invoked during significant life events, including births, marriages, and deaths. She is also involved in myths that explore the interplay between free will and predestination.

### Žemyna

**Žemyna** is the goddess of the earth, fertility, and agriculture. She personifies the nurturing and sustaining aspects of the natural world.

- **Attributes:** Depicted as a fertile mother figure, Žemyna is often associated with fields, crops, and livestock.
- **Symbolism:** She represents abundance, growth, and the intimate connection between humans and the land. Žemyna is revered as the provider of sustenance and the protector of the natural environment.
- **Role in Myths:** Žemyna is central to agricultural rituals and myths that emphasize the importance of harmonious relationships with nature. She is also involved in creation stories that highlight the earth's role in supporting life.

### Vėjopatis

**Vėjopatis** is the god of winds, embodying the various aspects of wind and air.

- **Attributes:** Vėjopatis controls the direction, strength, and temper of the winds, often depicted with wings or as a swift-moving entity.
- **Symbolism:** He represents change, movement, and the invisible forces that shape the environment and human affairs.
- **Role in Myths:** Vėjopatis is invoked to influence weather patterns, aid in travel, and facilitate communication between gods and humans. He is also associated with the breath of life and the soul.

### Other Significant Deities

In addition to the primary deities, Baltic mythology includes a variety of other gods and spirits that inhabit different realms of existence and influence specific aspects of life:

- **Velnias (Veles):** The god of the underworld, magic, and trickery. He is often depicted as a shapeshifter and is associated with animals, wealth, and fertility.
- **Milda:** A goddess of love and beauty, similar to other love deities in Indo-European mythologies. She represents romantic affection and the aesthetic pleasures of life.
- **Jumis:** A dual god representing the male and female aspects of creation, often associated with the sun and the moon.
- **Gabija:** The goddess of fire, overseeing the hearth and domestic fires, symbolizing warmth, protection, and transformation.
- **Lašų Miškininkas:** The forest spirit, protector of the woods and wildlife, embodying the untamed and mystical aspects of nature.

## Cosmology and Creation Myths

### The Structure of the Universe

Baltic cosmology presents a multi-layered universe, comprising the celestial realm, the earthly plane, and the underworld. This tripartite structure mirrors the cosmologies found in many other Indo-European mythological systems, yet it retains distinct Baltic characteristics:

- **Celestial Realm:** Governed by gods like Dievas and Saule, this realm encompasses the sky, stars, and celestial bodies. It represents the order, light, and rational aspects of existence.
- **Earthly Plane:** Inhabited by humans, animals, and nature spirits, the earthly plane is the domain of Žemyna and other deities associated with the natural world. It signifies fertility, growth, and the tangible aspects of life.
- **Underworld:** Ruled by deities like Velnias, the underworld is the abode of the dead, spirits, and magical beings. It embodies the mysteries, chaos, and regenerative forces of life.

### Creation Narratives

Baltic creation myths often emphasize the harmonious interplay between deities, nature, and humanity. While specific narratives can vary between Lithuanian and Latvian traditions, common themes include:

- **Emergence from Chaos:** Similar to other mythological systems, Baltic myths often begin with a primordial state of chaos or nothingness, from which the universe and its elements emerge. This act of creation is typically orchestrated by a supreme deity or a group of gods.
 
- **The Cosmic Egg:** A prevalent motif in Baltic mythology is the **cosmic egg**, symbolizing the potential and the birth of the universe. The egg is often depicted as the source from which the world and the gods spring forth.

- **Separation of Elements:** The creation process involves the separation and differentiation of elemental forces, such as earth, sky, water, and fire, establishing the distinct realms of existence.

- **Divine Craftsmanship:** Gods and goddesses actively shape the world, fashioning landforms, celestial bodies, and natural phenomena. This craftsmanship underscores the gods' roles as both creators and sustainers of the universe.

### Example Myth: The Birth of the Sun and the Moon

One prominent Baltic creation myth narrates the birth of the sun and the moon, illustrating the celestial deities' roles in governing light and darkness:

- **Saule's Journey:** Saule, the sun goddess, embarks on her daily journey across the sky, riding her chariot pulled by horses. Her radiant presence dispels darkness and nurtures life on earth.

- **The Moon's Birth:** In contrast, the moon is personified as a male deity, often linked to the god **Žemyna** or **Vėjopatis**. The moon's journey is depicted as a counterpart to Saule's, reflecting the balance between day and night.

- **Eclipses and Celestial Events:** The myth explains celestial events like solar and lunar eclipses as moments when Saule and the moon interact directly, symbolizing moments of union or conflict between light and darkness.

## Mythological Narratives and Heroes

Baltic mythology is replete with rich narratives that explore themes of creation, transformation, heroism, and the interplay between humans and the divine. These stories often serve to explain natural phenomena, moral lessons, and cultural values.

### Myths of Transformation and Origin

Transformation myths are a cornerstone of Baltic mythology, reflecting the fluid boundaries between different realms and states of being:

- **Shape-shifting Deities:** Gods like Perkūnas and Velnias possess the ability to change forms, symbolizing their control over natural forces and their adaptability. These transformations often serve strategic purposes in myths, such as battling chaos or assisting humans.

- **Origin of the World:** Various myths recount the origins of the world, emphasizing the gods' creative powers and the establishment of order from chaos. These narratives highlight the importance of balance and harmony in maintaining the cosmos.

### Heroes and Legends

Heroes in Baltic mythology embody virtues such as bravery, wisdom, and resilience. They often undertake quests, confront formidable foes, and navigate challenges that test their character and abilities:

- **The Heroic Journeys:** Myths may depict heroes embarking on journeys to retrieve sacred objects, rescue loved ones, or defeat malevolent beings. These quests serve as metaphors for personal growth and the overcoming of adversity.

- **Cultural Heroes:** Figures such as **Zemyna's Sons** or legendary warriors associated with Perkūnas exemplify the ideal of the heroic individual who upholds societal values and protects the community from threats.

- **Legends of Founding:** Some narratives attribute the founding of important settlements, families, or institutions to heroic figures, reinforcing the connection between mythology and societal identity.

## Mythological Creatures and Beings

Baltic mythology features a diverse array of mythological creatures and beings, each with distinct characteristics and roles within the mythological ecosystem:

### Laumės

**Laumės** are ethereal female spirits akin to fairies or nymphs. They are associated with nature, particularly forests, rivers, and meadows, and are often depicted as beautiful, enchanting women with magical powers.

- **Characteristics:** Laumės are known for their ability to bestow blessings or curses, shape-shift, and interact with humans in both benevolent and mischievous ways.
- **Role in Myths:** They serve as guardians of natural places, offering protection to those who respect nature and punishing those who exploit or harm it. Laumės also play roles in love stories, transformation myths, and moral lessons about harmony with the environment.

### Velnias (Veles)

**Velnias**, also known as **Veles** in some traditions, is a complex deity associated with the underworld, magic, and trickery. He is often portrayed as a rival to Perkūnas, embodying chaos and the untamed aspects of nature.

- **Characteristics:** Velnias is depicted as a shapeshifter, capable of assuming various forms, including animals like snakes or bears. He is both feared and respected for his cunning and mystical abilities.
- **Role in Myths:** Velnias engages in contests of strength and wit with other deities, particularly Perkūnas. These interactions symbolize the perpetual struggle between order and chaos, light and darkness.

### Perkūnas’ Beasts

Perkūnas, the god of thunder, is associated with powerful creatures that embody his dominion over storms and natural forces:

- **Thunder Horses:** Perkūnas is often depicted riding a chariot pulled by swift and strong horses, symbolizing his control over the winds and thunderbolts.
- **Goats:** In some depictions, goats are associated with Perkūnas, serving as his steeds or companions. These animals symbolize the rugged and untamed aspects of nature that Perkūnas governs.

### Other Mythical Entities

- **Zilvinas (Silvinas):** Spirits of the forests and woods, embodying the life and mystery of untamed natural landscapes.
- **Mėnuo (Meno):** A moon spirit associated with the nocturnal aspects of the cosmos, often linked to dreams and the subconscious.
- **Sodyba Spirits:** Household spirits that protect the home and family, reflecting the importance of domestic harmony and safety.

## Rituals and Religious Practices

Baltic religious practices were deeply rooted in the natural cycles and the agrarian lifestyle of the Baltic peoples. Rituals and ceremonies were conducted to honor deities, seek blessings, and ensure the well-being of the community.

### Seasonal Festivals

Seasonal festivals played a crucial role in Baltic paganism, aligning religious observances with agricultural cycles and natural phenomena:

- **Vasaros (Summer):** Celebrations marked the height of summer, focusing on fertility, abundance, and the protection of crops.
- **Rudens (Autumn):** Harvest festivals celebrated the bounty of the harvest, giving thanks to deities like Žemyna and Saule for their blessings.
- **Žiema (Winter):** Winter solstice rituals honored the return of light and the cyclical nature of the seasons.
- **Pavasaris (Spring):** Spring festivals celebrated renewal, rebirth, and the awakening of nature after winter.

### Sacrificial Offerings

Sacrificial offerings were integral to Baltic religious practices, serving as acts of devotion, appeasement, and reciprocity with the divine:

- **Animal Sacrifices:** Livestock such as cattle, pigs, and goats were commonly sacrificed to deities like Dievas and Perkūnas. These sacrifices symbolized the transfer of wealth and gratitude.
- **Food and Drink Offerings:** Bountiful offerings of bread, honey, milk, and mead were presented to honor deities and ensure continued blessings.
- **Symbolic Objects:** Offerings included symbolic items like arrows, tools, and crafted objects, representing human labor and creativity.

### Shamanistic Traditions

Shamanism played a significant role in Baltic paganism, with shamans serving as intermediaries between the human and divine realms:

- **Roles and Responsibilities:** Shamans conducted rituals, divined the future, communicated with spirits, and provided healing. They were regarded as wise figures with profound spiritual knowledge.
- **Ritual Practices:** Shamanistic rituals involved drumming, chanting, trance states, and the use of sacred herbs and symbols to facilitate communication with the spirit world.

### Household and Agricultural Rituals

Daily life in Baltic paganism was infused with rituals that reinforced the connection between humans, the household, and the natural environment:

- **Home Blessings:** Rituals to protect the home and family, invoking household spirits and deities to ensure safety and prosperity.
- **Agricultural Rites:** Ceremonies to bless seeds, cultivate fields, and promote successful harvests, emphasizing the reciprocal relationship between humans and the earth.

## Symbolism and Sacred Objects

Symbolism in Baltic mythology is deeply intertwined with the natural world and the spiritual beliefs of the Baltic peoples. Sacred objects and symbols served as tangible representations of divine forces and spiritual concepts.

### Sacred Trees and Groves

Trees, particularly oaks and elms, held immense spiritual significance in Baltic paganism:

- **Oak Trees:** Symbolizing strength, endurance, and the divine, oak trees were considered sacred spaces for rituals and worship. They were often seen as the dwelling places of deities and spirits.
- **Elm Trees:** Representing fertility and growth, elm trees were revered as symbols of life and prosperity. They were central to agricultural rituals and seasonal celebrations.

### Symbols and Amulets

Various symbols and amulets were used in Baltic religious practices to invoke protection, luck, and blessings:

- **Solar Symbols:** Representations of the sun, such as the sun wheel or ray patterns, symbolized Saule and the life-giving force of the sun.
- **Thunderbolts:** Emblems of Perkūnas, thunderbolts signified power, protection, and the ability to dispel evil.
- **Fate Threads:** Symbols of Laima, the threads of fate represented the interconnectedness of destiny and the influence of divine forces on human lives.

### Sacred Waters and Bodies

Water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and springs, were regarded as sacred spaces in Baltic mythology:

- **Sacred Springs:** Considered places of purification and renewal, sacred springs were sites for rituals and offerings to deities like Saule and Laima.
- **Rivers and Lakes:** Water bodies symbolized the flow of life, the boundary between worlds, and the sustenance provided by nature. They were often associated with spirits and ancestral beings.

## Comparative Analysis

### Baltic Mythology and Indo-European Traditions

Baltic mythology shares several commonalities with other **Indo-European** mythological systems, reflecting their shared linguistic and cultural heritage:

- **Pantheon Structure:** The presence of a chief sky god (Dievas) parallels the roles of Zeus in Greek mythology, Jupiter in Roman mythology, and Dyaus Pitar in Vedic traditions.
- **Thunder Gods:** Perkūnas is akin to Thor in Norse mythology, Indra in Hindu mythology, and Taranis in Celtic traditions, all embodying the power of thunder and storms.
- **Fate Deities:** Laima's role as a goddess of fate is comparable to the Moirai in Greek mythology, the Norns in Norse mythology, and the Parcae in Roman traditions.
- **Earth Goddesses:** Žemyna mirrors Gaia in Greek mythology and Prithvi in Hindu traditions, representing the nurturing and fertile aspects of the earth.

### Baltic vs. Slavic and Germanic Mythologies

While Baltic mythology shares Indo-European roots with Slavic and Germanic mythologies, distinct differences highlight the unique cultural evolutions within the Baltic region:

- **Unique Deities:** Baltic mythology features deities like Saule and Laima, who do not have direct counterparts in Slavic or Germanic mythologies, underscoring the region's unique spiritual landscape.
- **Shamanistic Elements:** Baltic paganism incorporates significant shamanistic traditions, with shamans playing crucial roles in rituals and spiritual communication, a trait less pronounced in Germanic traditions.
- **Nature-Centric Rituals:** Baltic rituals are intensely focused on agricultural cycles and natural phenomena, reflecting the region's agrarian society and deep connection to the land.

### Unique Aspects of Baltic Mythology

Baltic mythology possesses distinctive characteristics that set it apart from other European mythological systems:

- **Late Christianization:** The retention of pagan beliefs longer than many other European regions allowed Baltic mythology to preserve a more extensive and intricate pantheon of deities and myths.
- **Duality of Deities:** The coexistence of male and female deities with equally significant roles, such as Dievas and Saule, emphasizes a balanced cosmology that integrates both masculine and feminine divine forces.
- **Rich Oral Traditions:** The preservation of myths and rituals through oral traditions ensured the continuity and adaptability of Baltic mythology, allowing it to evolve while maintaining core elements.

## Legacy and Modern Revival

### Folklore and Literature

Baltic mythology has significantly influenced regional folklore, literature, and cultural narratives:

- **Folktales:** Traditional stories passed down through generations incorporate mythological elements, featuring gods, spirits, and heroes that embody cultural values and moral lessons.
- **Literature:** Contemporary Baltic literature often draws inspiration from ancient myths, reinterpreting and revitalizing traditional narratives for modern audiences.
- **Music and Art:** Mythological themes are prevalent in Baltic music and visual arts, celebrating the region's spiritual heritage through creative expression.

### Neo-Paganism and Baltic Traditions Today

In recent decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in Baltic paganism, driven by movements such as **Dievturība** in Latvia and **Romuva** in Lithuania:

- **Revival Movements:** These neo-pagan movements seek to reconstruct and revive ancient Baltic religious practices, emphasizing a return to nature-based spirituality and cultural identity.
- **Ritual Practices:** Modern practitioners engage in rituals that honor traditional deities, seasonal cycles, and ancestral spirits, blending ancient practices with contemporary spiritual needs.
- **Community and Identity:** Neo-paganism serves as a means of cultural preservation and community building, fostering a sense of identity rooted in Baltic heritage and spiritual traditions.

### Cultural Heritage and Preservation

The preservation of Baltic mythology is essential for maintaining the region's cultural heritage and fostering intergenerational connections:

- **Museums and Archives:** Institutions dedicated to cultural preservation curate artifacts, manuscripts, and exhibits that showcase Baltic mythology and its historical context.
- **Educational Initiatives:** Schools and universities incorporate Baltic mythological studies into their curricula, promoting awareness and appreciation of the region's spiritual and cultural legacy.
- **Festivals and Celebrations:** Traditional festivals that commemorate mythological themes and seasonal cycles continue to be celebrated, keeping ancient traditions alive within contemporary society.

## Conclusion

Baltic mythology stands as a profound and intricate system of beliefs that reflects the Baltic peoples' deep connection to nature, their rich cultural heritage, and their unique spiritual worldview. From the supreme deity Dievas to the thunderous Perkūnas and the life-giving Saule, the pantheon of Baltic gods and goddesses encapsulates the fundamental forces that shape the cosmos and human existence. The myths and rituals of Baltic paganism not only offer a window into the pre-Christian spiritual life of the region but also continue to influence modern cultural expressions and spiritual practices.

The enduring legacy of Baltic mythology is evident in the vibrant folklore, literature, and revival movements that seek to preserve and honor this ancient heritage. As a testament to the resilience and adaptability of cultural traditions, Baltic mythology remains a vital and dynamic aspect of the region's identity, bridging the past and present through stories of gods, heroes, and the timeless dance between humanity and the natural world.

Understanding Baltic mythology provides valuable insights into the broader tapestry of European and Indo-European mythological systems, highlighting the unique contributions and enduring significance of the Baltic spiritual landscape. As global interest in indigenous and nature-based spiritualities grows, Baltic mythology offers a rich and compelling tradition that continues to inspire, educate, and connect individuals with the profound mysteries of existence.

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**Note:** This extensive overview of Baltic mythology aims to provide a thorough understanding of the region's pre-Christian spiritual traditions, highlighting the intricate relationships between deities, humans, and the natural world. By exploring the pantheon, cosmology, myths, rituals, and modern legacy of Baltic paganism, we gain valuable insights into the cultural and spiritual fabric that has shaped the Baltic peoples' identity throughout history.