Hippo’s looks are deceiving. Many people see this large placid Animal as a figure of fun. However, the ancient Egyptians knew how aggressive a male Hippo could be. Since the Female Hippo is just as aggressive but to protect her calf, they made Her their representation of the Goddess of Childbirth Tawaret.
According to official statistics, a great many deaths of humans are caused by Hippo. She will tolerate others only if They behave Themselves. Father Hippo (the Dominant Bull) will first warn Other Hippos by showering Them with urine and feces. Meanwhile, Mother Hippo will place her Calf in a nursery school to guard against attackers.
Hippo has two lives - one in water and the other on land. At dusk, Hippo climbs onto the land to graze. She has her own grazing territory that She keeps for her lifetime. On land, Hippo seems sluggish but She can gallop up to 18 MPH (30 KPH), and turn on a dime. This surprises many intruders who do not think much about Hippo's mobility.
Floating in the river, Hippo seems to be at peace. Vulnerable to overheating, She stays well below the water line. Sometimes She will put her head on a Friend, and sun Herself. At other times, Hippo will moonwalk along the river bottom.
Hippo teaches us to take a second look. She may seem peacefully sunning Herself one moment. But in a blink of an eye, Hippo is charging at you because you are in Her Territory. Although She may look like a large Pig, her closest Relatives are the Whales and Dolphins. Just remember as Hippo cautions take nothing for granted.
Hippo’s Teachings Include:
“Hippopotamus is the midwife. In Egypt, She is the Goddess, who attends each and every birth. She is seen on the walls of the temples assisting at the birth of the Sun each morning, after it has completed its journey through the underworld.” Copyright: “Power Animal Meditations”, Nicki Scully
“In a world of fast food eaten alone, Hippopotamus counsels that the time has come to break bread with friends and family, and to take succor from confidences given and revealed.” Copyright: “Animal Wisdom” by Susie Green.
Note: The various spellings of Tawaret are Tuart, Taurt, Opet, Reret, Toeris, and Taueret.
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Va. Carper
April 25, 2008