THE ANTELOPE:In Sumerian mythology, the antelope was both a lunar and a solar animal. As a solar creautre it was sacred to the god Ea who was sometimes called Ea-Oannes (the antelope of Apsu and of creation) and the god Marduk. In its lunar form the antelope or gazelle was sacred to the goddess Astarte. In Egyptian lore, this animal represented Osiris and Horus, but was also sacred to the goddess Isis. It was sacrificed , however, to the desert god Set. In most of Asia Minor the antelope was considered to be a lunar animal associated with the Great Mother. In India it was an emblem of Shiva. The chariots of Chandra and Soma were drawn by antelopes or gazelles. The gazelle, a type of antelope, was considered to be an animal of the Egyptian god Set, along with the oryx and goat. This creature represented the sign of Capricorn in the Hindu zodiac. The gazelle was a creature of Artemis/Diana in Greece and Rome, and the chief storm god in Sumeria. The oryx was especially revered by ancient Egyptians as a sacrificial animal. SuperstitionsIt was once believed that antelope in Middle Eastern countries cut down trees with their horns.Magickal AttributesSwiftness, gentleness, being in touch with the Earth.Streng듼Ķ, ng��ou��ess. Caution when approaching something new. A strong survival instinct through understanding yourself and the cycle of life. Sometimes a messgae that you should seek a higher purpose instead of dwelling totally on the physical. Developing a strong survival instinct in yourself or another, especially if living in abusive or threatening circumstances. ChantSwift-footed antelope, teach me survival instincts.Make me aware of inuitive warnings. Let the aggresor be brought low by his or her own actions. Dispel his or her power to harm others. Show me the path to safety, peace, and harmony. |
