Brothers and Sisters: Myth and Reality

In childhood, we usually spend much more time with brothers and sisters than with parents. When we divorce, isolate ourselves, or move away, essentially, the connection with brothers and sisters is the only thing that remains with us. However, despite the fact that sibling relationships are a fundamental aspect of human existence, psychology surprisingly treats them superficially, ignoring the fact that brothers and sisters always compete with each other for their place in the family system. The book by Jungian psychoanalyst, Professor at Tel Aviv University Henry Abramovitch explores the confrontation of myth and reality regarding siblings. Abramovitch provides numerous examples from the mythology of different peoples, including still relevant stories from the Old Testament, as well as sharing reflections on his own family relationships.