The article was devoted to the discussion of Abu Rayhan Beruni's views on gradual development. The philosopher's book "India" is cited as the main source for the issue reflected in the article.

This article describes the initial mythological views and their manifestation in the form of various symbols. The etymology of the main concepts of mythology: totem, fetish and anima is analyzed. The struggle between goodness and evil in Zoroastrian mythology and their manifestation in the personifications of various gods and giants, as well as the folk heroes and personifications of goodness narrated in Avesta mythology, are highlighted.