Unraveling Animal Symbolism in Myths: A Walk Through 18 Cultures of the World

Understanding animal symbolism in myths is like embarking on a journey into the collective subconscious of humanity. It reveals our primal instincts, fears, desires, and values, and it offers a glimpse into the diverse cultures and civilizations that have shaped the world. This exploration will take us across continents and through time, from the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Greece to the indigenous cultures of America and Australia. We will discover how animals have been used as symbols to express complex human emotions, ideas, and beliefs, and how these symbols have evolved over time.

The Sacred Scarab of Ancient Egypt: Symbol of Creation and Renewal

In Ancient Egypt, the scarab beetle was a potent symbol of creation and renewal. This humble insect, which rolls dung into a ball and deposits its eggs inside, was seen as a metaphor for the sun god Ra, who rolled the sun across the sky each day. The scarab was also associated with Khepri, the god of sunrise and rebirth. Egyptians wore scarab amulets for protection and good luck, and they placed scarab statues in tombs to ensure the deceased's rebirth in the afterlife.