While designing my Strange Music tattoo I was curious about the source of a snake entwined on a dagger or sword. I knew of the Caduceus that is used in many Medical professions these days and did a quick Wikipedia search. Here I found that the caduceus "represents Hermes (or the Roman Mercury), and by extension trades,
occupations or undertakings associated with the god. In later Antiquity the caduceus provided the basis for the astrological symbol representing the planet Mercury. Thus, through its use in astrology and alchemy, it has come to denote the elemental metal of the same name." Also in Roman mythology it "was often depicted being carried in the left hand of Mercury, the messenger of the gods, guide of the dead and protector of merchants, shepherds, gamblers, liars, and thieves." This has nothing to do with medicine! It also is very specifically two snakes and sometimes wings.
Wikipedia also directed me to the correct medical symbol for the Greek god Asclepius, a deity associated with healing and medicine. One snake encircling a rod. Now every time I hear the Caduceus associated to Asclepius or Asklepios I cringe and begin to question how thorough they did their research. Still I was curious about the use of the snake around a dagger or sword rather then a rod. It seems to be a more recent invention, I haven't come across any use of it in mythologies or otherwise. This leads me to think that it may be a combination of sorts and I can envision it as such. The rod of Asclepius with the symbolism of a sword or dagger interjected into it. There doesn't seem to be much antiquated symbolism with daggers aside from very specific models. In ritual magick the Athame is a consecrated ceremonial knife symbolizing the element of air or fire. In my mind air and fire work together to intensify energy and change. In a way I almost come to think of my snake entwining the dagger to be a symbol of the energy and movement toward change and healing, but wait! I haven't included the bat! For as any Strange Music fan knows the Snake and Bat go together. This dagger has a handle in the shape of a bat, creatures that are seen as symbolizing luck and fortune. Am I using the elements of air and fire to heal myself with a touch of luck? Perhaps.
Wikipedia also directed me to the correct medical symbol for the Greek god Asclepius, a deity associated with healing and medicine. One snake encircling a rod. Now every time I hear the Caduceus associated to Asclepius or Asklepios I cringe and begin to question how thorough they did their research. Still I was curious about the use of the snake around a dagger or sword rather then a rod. It seems to be a more recent invention, I haven't come across any use of it in mythologies or otherwise. This leads me to think that it may be a combination of sorts and I can envision it as such. The rod of Asclepius with the symbolism of a sword or dagger interjected into it. There doesn't seem to be much antiquated symbolism with daggers aside from very specific models. In ritual magick the Athame is a consecrated ceremonial knife symbolizing the element of air or fire. In my mind air and fire work together to intensify energy and change. In a way I almost come to think of my snake entwining the dagger to be a symbol of the energy and movement toward change and healing, but wait! I haven't included the bat! For as any Strange Music fan knows the Snake and Bat go together. This dagger has a handle in the shape of a bat, creatures that are seen as symbolizing luck and fortune. Am I using the elements of air and fire to heal myself with a touch of luck? Perhaps.
No comments:
Post a Comment