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The Lion

King of the beasts in most parts of the World, the Lion is associated with many symbols, such as the Sun - with the young lion corresponding to the rising sun, and the old lion as the setting sun. The Lion has also been found as the symbol of Sun Gods, such as Mithras.

Lions were kept by Kings in oriental countries as a symbol of Royal power. The lion was the most important animal in the heraldic art for the same reason, as a symbol of royalty and power.

The Egyptians believed that the lion presided over the annual floods of the Nile.

A lion was often seen carved into gate posts and thrones as a guardian, or on a house as a gargoyle, not only to frighten off evil spirits, but as part of the 'guttering' it could carry water away from roofs, its "solar nature combining with water as a symbol of fertility".

As a symbol of one of the elements, it represents Earth, although some say fire, especially when winged.

Kat - Cosmic Red Earth (age 15)

Copyright ©1999 Katie Bourner. All rights reserved.

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