Self-Revelation: An Origin Myth Interpretation of the Göbekli Tepe Culture (An Alternative Perspective on Anthropomorphic Themes)

Göbekli Tepe's T-shaped pillars, previously interpreted as mythological ancestors or supernatural beings, are reimagined as phallic representations of ancestors, embodying their enduring presence in the 'now' and 'this world.' This groundbreaking interpretation suggests that Neolithic people constructed a complex mythological narrative to explain themselves, with human head and phallus themes central to this symbolic framework. The study proposes that these pillars are material manifestations of ancestor cult practices and initiation rites, contributing significantly to archaeology, anthropology, sociology, and the history of religions. By positioning anthropomorphic statues and reliefs as markers of societal status attainment, the research initiates a broader discussion on the main mythological narrative of this enigmatic culture.

AYAZ, O. (2023). Kendini Açıklamak: Göbekli Tepe Kültürü’nde Bir Köken Miti Yorumu (Antropomorfik Temalara Alternatif Bir Bakış). Yüzüncü Yıl Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Enstitüsü Dergisi, (60), 191–208. https://doi.org/10.53568/yyusbed.1233144