Tradition / Region: Alchemical Mythology
Alternate Names: —
Category: Cow
The Myth
In an old alchemical image, there is shown a powerful bull held in check by a man with a rod. Behind the animal stand several cows, calm and watchful, some heavy with young.
The bull strains forward with great strength, but its leg is bound so that it cannot rush ahead. The herdsman stands firm before it, guiding and restraining the beast so that it does not break loose among the cows.
The scene is quiet, yet full of tension. The bull’s power is clear, but it is not destroyed. Instead, it is held and directed. The cows behind remain safe, and the herd continues in order.
The image has been remembered as a lesson shown through animals: that strength must be governed, that force must sometimes be held back, and that endurance and restraint preserve what is meant to grow.
Thus the bound bull and the waiting herd became a lasting emblem, showing how power, when guided, protects life rather than bringing ruin.
Gallery
Sources
Alciato at Glasgow: Emblem: Anechou kai apechou. Sustine & abstine. (n.d.). https://www.emblems.arts.gla.ac.uk/alciato/emblem.php?id=A21a034
Interpretive Lenses
Religious Readings
- Christian Ascetic Deep Dive
Philosophical Readings
- Nietzschean Deep Dive
Psychological Readings
- Jungian Deep Dive
Esoteric Deep Dive
- Hermetic Deep Dive
Political / Social Readings
- Marxist Deep Dive