Proto-Indo-Iranian mythology
Proto-Indo-Iranian mythology refers to the mythological beliefs and practices of the ancient Proto-Indo-Iranian people, who are believed to have lived in the Eurasian steppes around 4000-1500 BCE. This mythology is reconstructed based on the similarities and parallels between the mythologies of the ancient Indian and Iranian cultures, which descended from the Proto-Indo-Iranian people.
At the heart of Proto-Indo-Iranian mythology lies the belief in a cosmic struggle between good and evil, light and darkness, and order and chaos. This struggle is often depicted through the conflict between the gods and the demons, with the gods representing the forces of good and the demons representing the forces of evil.
One of the most important gods in Proto-Indo-Iranian mythology is the sky god, known as Dyauṣ Pitṛ́ in Sanskrit and Daiva in Avestan. He is often depicted as a powerful, all-seeing deity who rules over the heavens and the earth. Another important god is the thunder god, known as Indra in Sanskrit and Verethragna in Avestan, who is often depicted as a powerful warrior who wields a thunderbolt as his weapon.
The Proto-Indo-Iranians also believed in a cosmic tree, known as the Haoma tree, which was believed to be the source of all life and wisdom. The Haoma tree was often associated with the god of wisdom, known as Varuna in Sanskrit and Vohu Manah in Avestan.
The Proto-Indo-Iranians also believed in an afterlife, where the souls of the deceased would journey to a place called the "House of the Fathers", where they would be judged based on their deeds in life. Those who were deemed worthy would be granted immortality and live in the presence of the gods, while those who were deemed unworthy would be punished in a place called the "House of the Lie".
Proto-Indo-Iranian mythology also contains stories of great heroes and warriors, such as the legendary hero Manu, who is said to have saved the world from a great flood, and the hero Rama, who is said to have defeated the demon king Ravana.
Overall, Proto-Indo-Iranian mythology provides a unique window into the beliefs and practices of the ancient Proto-Indo-Iranian people, and continues to influence the mythologies and religions of the Indian and Iranian cultures to this day.
Please note that this is a general overview of Proto-Indo-Iranian mythology and is not an exhaustive treatment of the subject. If you have specific questions or would like further information, feel free to ask!