Creatures That Bridged the Human and Divine Worlds
Animals held deep symbolic meaning in ancient cultures. They represented gods, natural forces, virtues, and mysteries that people could not explain.
Bulls in Minoan Crete
The bull symbolized power and fertility. Frescoes show rituals involving acrobatic bull-leaping. The Minotaur myth likely emerged from these traditions.
Cats in Egypt
Cats represented:
Protection
Grace
Divine favor
They were connected to the goddess Bastet and protected homes from pests and spiritual harm.
Wolves in Norse Myth
Wolves symbolized both destruction and protection. Fenrir represented chaos, while Odin’s wolves, Geri and Freki, symbolized loyalty and companionship.
Snakes in Many Cultures
Snakes represented:
Rebirth (shedding skin)
Healing
Mystery
They played key roles in Greek, Indian, and Mesoamerican traditions.
Across the world, animals served as powerful metaphors for divine forces and human nature.
