The term "chthonic" refers to deities and realms associated with the underworld or the Earth, often embodying aspects of death and the afterlife. In mythology, chthonic gods are linked to agricultural fertility, as they oversee the cycles of life and death, representing the foundation of existence and the return to the Earth. These entities often command respect and fear, highlighting the dual nature of life and decay. In cultures like Greek mythology, chthonic figures—such as Hades and Persephone—play significant roles in explaining natural phenomena and the mysteries surrounding existence beyond life.