Over the millennia, humans have developed a deep-rooted fascination with venomous animals. They appear in legends and myths worldwide. Their significance in Egyptian mythology is emblematic of this. Here, venomous animals play an important role, especially snakes and scorpions. They were often regarded as symbols of power, protection, or danger. The cobra, a venomous snake, was a symbol of royal authority and was associated with the goddess Wadjet, who was considered the protector of the king. Scorpions were also seen as protective symbols, particularly in relation to the underworld and the afterlife. They were associated with the goddess Selket, who helped the dead protect themselves from dangers and safely transition into the afterlife. Despite their dangerous nature, these venomous animals were often revered and respected in Egyptian mythology. In contrast, in the modern Western world, venomous animals are more often met with fear and revulsion.

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What Animal Venoms Can Do for Humanity

  • Ivan G. Ivanov

摘要

Over the millennia, humans have developed a deep-rooted fascination with venomous animals. They appear in legends and myths worldwide. Their significance in Egyptian mythology is emblematic of this. Here, venomous animals play an important role, especially snakes and scorpions. They were often regarded as symbols of power, protection, or danger. The cobra, a venomous snake, was a symbol of royal authority and was associated with the goddess Wadjet, who was considered the protector of the king. Scorpions were also seen as protective symbols, particularly in relation to the underworld and the afterlife. They were associated with the goddess Selket, who helped the dead protect themselves from dangers and safely transition into the afterlife. Despite their dangerous nature, these venomous animals were often revered and respected in Egyptian mythology. In contrast, in the modern Western world, venomous animals are more often met with fear and revulsion.