As is to often the case, there is a myth that explains the rationale for the rituals surrounding this mountain. Myth and ritual have often been theorized as two parts of a whole, amounting to belief and action. However, some scholars would object that this is not a perfect divide, as both aspects may be theorized as part of a comprehensive religious “practice,” which includes the oral performance of myths within the community.According to the Bromo myth, when Islam was expanding in Java in the 15th century, a Hindu princess and her husband fled to the area of Mount Bromo for refuge. They became the ancestors of the present-day Tenggerese people.It is said that this couple had no children. So they climbed to the top of Mount Bromo to pray to the god of the mountain for children.The god granted their wish, but said that in return they would have to sacrifice their youngest child to the volcano-mountain. They had 25 children, and then had to sacrifice the youngest child to be consumed by the fire of the volcano. From that time the ritual of sacrifice to the volcano has taken place.