The deification of animals (among other sacred practices) is a timeless thread woven through innumerable cultures. Some of the earliest and most recognized documentations trace back to ancient Greek mythology. Greek historian, Diodorus, recorded that the gods transformed themselves into animals as a protective measure against evil predators, particularly evil giants. It is also stated that Zeus favored his animal form, but often for the sole purpose of escaping the watchful eye of his wife, Hera. (What a sly cat!) In many ancient statues and drawings, the Gods and Goddesses are depicted as part human and part animal, illustrating the vital union between a divine figure and its animal identity. The Greek Pantheon is famous for its remarkable animal representations. Other ancient civilizations, the Egyptians and the Indus people for example, believed that gods walked among men and women through animal spirits. Countless religions hold the common belief that sacred animals possess power ful abilities to heal all spiritual and physical maladies, along with the gift of vision into the divinity of a “godly” place.
In the study of a culture’s spiritual and ritualistic relationship with animals, what ethnobiological impacts will be revealed? And what environmental factors contribute to the forming of these beliefs and practices? We seek to examine these fascinating connections! Our journey begins!
Ameer
Marguerite
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