primeval god of darkness wsj crossword

Sandra Almird

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02-01-2025

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The Wall Street Journal crossword puzzles are known for their challenging clues, often incorporating mythology, history, and obscure vocabulary. One such clue that has likely stumped many solvers is a reference to a "primeval god of darkness." While the specific answer may vary depending on the particular crossword, we can explore the possibilities and delve into the fascinating world of mythological deities associated with darkness. This article will analyze potential answers based on common crossword clue patterns and expand on the relevant mythology. Credit for the original clues goes to the authors at CrosswordFiend, whose collective knowledge forms the basis for this exploration.

Possible Answers and Their Context

The exact wording of the clue is crucial. A simple "primeval god of darkness" could yield multiple answers depending on the specific pantheon referenced. While CrosswordFiend doesn't offer a single definitive answer to this general clue, we can consider likely candidates:

• Erebus (Greek): This is a strong contender. Erebus isn't just a god of darkness, but often represents the primordial void or chasm that existed before the creation of the cosmos. He's a foundational figure, preceding even Chaos in some accounts. Therefore, the "primeval" aspect of the clue aligns perfectly with Erebus's role in Greek mythology.

• Chaos (Greek): Another powerful Greek option. Chaos is often depicted as the primordial state of existence – a formless, void darkness from which the cosmos emerged. While not strictly a god, Chaos is a powerful primordial entity that significantly predates the Olympian gods. Its inclusion would depend on the crossword's willingness to accept a non-deity answer.

• Other Possibilities: Depending on the specific crossword, other mythological figures associated with darkness could fit. These might include deities from other cultures like the Norse, Egyptian, or Mesopotamian pantheons. The key is to consider the "primeval" aspect – suggesting an ancient, foundational deity, rather than a more recent or less powerful figure of darkness.

Expanding on Erebus and Chaos

Let's delve a little deeper into the two most likely candidates:

• Erebus: In Greek mythology, Erebus is the personification of darkness and shadow, specifically the darkness between the world of the living and the Underworld. Hesiod's Theogony places Erebus as one of the very first beings, born from Chaos along with Nyx (Night). Unlike Nyx, who actively participates in creation (through her children), Erebus remains a somewhat passive yet essential component of the primordial world.

• Chaos: In contrast to Erebus, Chaos is even more fundamental. It's not merely darkness but the complete absence of form and order, the raw, undifferentiated potential from which everything else arises. Think of it as the ultimate void before creation, a state of pure potential energy.

Tips for Solving Similar Clues

When confronted with a clue like "primeval god of darkness" in a WSJ crossword:

1. Consider the Pantheon: The clue might hint at a specific culture's mythology (Greek, Norse, Egyptian, etc.). Look for other clues in the puzzle that might point to a particular mythological setting.

2. Focus on "Primeval": This word indicates an ancient, foundational deity. Rule out lesser gods of the night or underworld.

3. Check the Letter Count: The number of letters will significantly narrow down the possibilities.

4. Use Crosswords Clues: Utilize the intersecting words to help you deduce the answer. This is the most effective strategy in solving cryptic clues.

In conclusion, while the exact answer to a "primeval god of darkness" clue will always depend on the specific puzzle, understanding the nuances of ancient mythology, particularly the roles of figures like Erebus and Chaos, provides valuable insight for tackling such challenging crossword entries. Remember to always credit the source material, in this case the insightful clues from CrosswordFiend, for inspiring such explorations into the fascinating realms of mythology and wordplay.