Horse Mandala Animal Art [3]

The Horse in the Bible

Horses were linked to the night, the moon, mystery, and magick. Nightmares, a name which is derived from that of the female horse, were thought by the Celts to be brought by a visiting horse Goddess such as Epona or Mare. In most Celtic myths the horses are black or white.

The Horse in Classical Myth

In classical mythology, horses are often depicted pulling chariots of important deities. Because of their speed and strength, horses were the ideal animals to pull the sun across the sky for Phoebus Apollo, although similar chariot-stories surround Mithras in ancient Rome and Elijah in the Old Testament. In the Second Book of Kings, it is said that Elijah was taken up into heaven on a chariot of fire. Probably the most famous horse in classical myth is Pegasus, the flying horse, offspring of the sea-god Poseidon which he sired with one of the Gorgons. Horses were often associated with the Underworld and, by association, with dark primal forces (including the beastlike energies residing in humans). Pegasus joins this symbolism with divine and skyborne connotations of flight and the heavens. Pegasus represents man’s ability to rise above his base origins and attain creative and imaginative flight. Indeed, the winged horse is often used as a symbol of poetic inspiration. Curiously, the name of Pegasus is close to the word pege, meaning ‘spring’, and Pegasus is often said to have been born at the Ocean springs. Thus the creature combines water with air: springs and wings both suggest creativity and elevation.

The Horse as a Spirit Animal

The horse is a majestic animal that embodies the spiritual power of independence, freedom, nobleness, endurance, confidence, triumph, heroism and competition. Its symbol is associated with strength, courage and freedom. The horse figures in various cultures, history, mythology and folklore where it’s known to have helped humans travel along tiresome and difficult paths. For 5,000 years, the horse has been an ever-present ally in war and peace. Civilizations have risen and fallen on their backs and evidence of the horse’s use is everywhere to be seen. Horses are a universal symbol of freedom without restraint, as horse riding makes people feel they can free themselves from their own limitations and float into adventure, movement and desire. Today, its spirit aids us in discovering the world around us and the universe within ourselves. It’s spirit also gives us the inner motivational power to move forward, succeed in our ventures and become the best version we can become.

The Horse’s Cultural Significance

Horses hold significant positions in the myths and cultural traditions of many different civilizations. It seems that wherever horses have been, they have left a major impact. Some of the more common themes associated with horses include freedom and passion. Wild horses represent the wild freedom of the untouched open landscapes where they are found, although they are found with increasingly scarcity. Additionally, horses embody freedom because, before the automobile was invented, a horse was the best way for a person to get around. Looking to travel? To escape difficult circumstances? To feel the wind against your face? A horse was absolutely the way to go. They represented wanderlust, self determination, and the promise of the open road. Horses also represent war, strength, and power. Horses and mounted warriors have been partners for thousands of years and have clashed in bloody conflicts all over the world. War horses are mighty beasts who represent discipline, ferocity, strength, and violence.

About the Animal Mandalas

Animal mandalas range from simple designs featuring cute little puppies and kittens that appeal to children, to detailed works of art ripe with spiritual symbolism. As an artistic tool for children, animal mandalas can supplement learning and provide an outlet for creative expression. For adults, the symbolism and meaning of the design may be more important. Consider the use of the mandala before you choose an animal design.