What does an ox mean in Africa. Encyclopedia of symbols

Ox: a symbol of the female essence that ensures the continuation of life

The cow-shaped bowl shown in the picture was used to store kola nuts. In Benin, cows played a very significant role as a sacrificial animal. The bull in Africa enjoyed special veneration. On the territory of the Sahel, many tribes are vitally dependent on these animals: here the ox is the usual means of payment, often serves as a ransom for the bride.

In the myths of the nomadic African peoples, cattle (oxen, cows, bulls) have always had a special relationship with people. So, cows had a close relationship with women, embodying the image of a wet nurse, a continuation of life on earth. And the ancient Egyptians even considered the night sky a big cow - the goddess Nut.

Bulls, on the contrary, were credited with the role of guards, guarding the peace of the living; bulls were usually associated with young men, embodied a masculine essence, one of the manifestations of which was invariably belligerence.

Source: "Symbols of Africa" ​​Heike Ovuzu