The Contribution of Myths to Wellbeing from the Perspective of Existential Counselling: A Hermeneutic Study

Abstract

This article examines how myths function as resources of meaning-making in the modern world from the perspective of existential empowerment (existential counselling). A common view prevails that myths have lost relevance in a contemporary age dominated by science, rationality, and technological modes of life. This study emphasizes that myths operate as symbolic “maps of the psyche” that guide individuals in confronting fundamental problems of human existence such as loneliness, alienation, meaninglessness, and awareness of death. As its theoretical foundation, the study employs Rollo May’s approach to finding meaning in myths, along with Carl Jung’s theory that understands myths as archetypal expressions of the collective unconscious. Methodologically, the Sundarakāṇḍa text is approached through content analysis and hermeneutic reading. The study explains how episodes such as Hanuman’s leap across the ocean, his confrontation of obstacles, his dialogue with Sita, and his return foreground themes of hope, courage, responsibility, affirmation of self-identity, and resilience. Furthermore, the intellectual tradition that uses Indian epics as resources for psychological empowerment confirms that this approach is not merely an innovation but rather a continuation of an interdisciplinary tradition linking myth, meaning, and psychology. Through this, the article argues that the Sundarakāṇḍa can be employed as an existential empowerment resource that transforms the modern individual’s existential anxiety into meaningful wellbeing.