There are a number of magical properties associated with the relics of griffins. Since they combined aspects of a lion, the “king of beasts,” and an eagle, the “king of birds,” it was deemed appropriate that they symbolize Christ, the “king of kings.” These creatures are also said to mate for life, even to the point of not seeking a new mate if the first one dies. In medieval times, griffins came to be associated with Christ. They are often seen guarding treasure, and they seem to be particularly fond of gold. It has long, external ears and, sometimes, a snake-like tail. The griffin of Greek mythology was said to hail either from the far north or from Ethiopia, “Ethiopia” being a Greek word meaning “too far away to verify, but you can take my word for it.” It is described as a creature with the head, wings, and talons of an eagle and the hindquarters of a lion. So I’ve done a little bit of research on griffins and other part-bird part-lion creatures from mythology and heraldry. I’ve been pondering how to work a griffin into an upcoming novel, simply because large flying things are cool, and griffins are among the coolest. It doesn’t surprise me that mythology is full of fantastic beasts that combine the characteristics of these two powerful hunting beasts. And there is also something awe-inspiring about a powerful lion on the prowl. The Genoa Republic used griffins as symbols to all its seafaring ships in the Middle Ages.There is something about a majestic eagle in flight that fills most of us with wonder. They are commonly associated with strength during war. The griffins represent both power and wisdom. They started representing Jesus as they were able to traverse in both air and earth with equal ease, which symbolized the human and divine nature of the Christ. Known to be strictly loyal to its partner, in the event of the death of one partner, the other griffin never mated again. In the medieval era, they came to be regarded as symbols of monogamous marriage and discouraged fidelity. Powerful and majestic, the griffins guarded gold and treasure. The roots of this fascinating mythological creature reach from Western Europe to the Eastern edges of Indian subcontinent and beyond. They appear regularly on the coats, arms, and flags of the noble and highly respected important families in Europe. Pictured as fierce, they have gained respect over ages too. In heraldry, griffin stands for courage, leadership and strength. Sculpted in some churches, the griffin is known in Christian symbolism and depicts both the divine and the human. Traditionally known for guarding treasures and possessions, griffins are protectors from evil, slander and witchcraft as well. These legendary creatures have the body of a lion and the wings and head of eagle thus representing the kings of both animals and the birds. The griffin is a chimera or hybrid mythical creature. The griffins are popular mythical creatures used extensively in the movies and fiction novels. Ancient Persepolis was covered in stone carved depictions of griffins all across its walls, and towering statues throughout the city. Early references to griffins are found in ancient Persian and Egyptian mythology dating back as far as 3300 B.C. and were often used as statues in Persian palaces.
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