What Do Horses Mean To Cultures?
While most North American horse lovers watch televised horse competitions when they are available, we are rarely offered a view of horses as a part of our culture. So it was interesting to read the article written by Muhammad Ayish of the UAE and his thoughts about Al Khel, a channel available in UAE dedicated not just to horses, but to the Arabian horse. “In Arab culture, the horse represents more than physical muscles; it epitomizes a constellation of noble values shared by community members as well: grace, endurance, friendship and gallantry,” states Ayish. I think what struck me most about this article was Ayish's perspective about what is more than just a sport within his own culture. And it had me considering what horses mean to our own culture. Do we have the same fundamental regard for horses, or do horses mean something different. What do you think? Leave your comments below.
Comments
I have always had a special love for Arabians, we have three mares , one who was born on our property, there is something almost human about this breed, they crave attention and stimulation , so smart, I believe it comes from their desert background , they were brought into their owner’s tents during sand storms, that was part of the culture of that time, I love all breeds but the Arabian they are special.
It is so great to discuss this about horses. I think that horses mean for us more than copetitions. But what is interesting and worthful to think about it that horses are mentioned in the Holy Quran. So it is worth foe us to read this holy book.
There is a lovely book called HORSE How the Horse Has Shaped Civilzations by J. Edward Chamberlin, BlueBridge Press 2006. This book discusses in an almost poetic way the history of the horse and man’s relationship with it from the dawn of history.
One of the things he talks about is the Arab culture and the way horses are a huge part of that culture, rules for their care even being writen into the Qur’an.
This is not a dry retelling of history but a paean to the horse. I really have enjoyed reading it and I think anyone with a passion for horses will too. If this topic interests you I’d highly recomend this book.
Thanks for the recommendation. I will look for that book. It sounds very interesting.
I love horses. A part of the Arabian horse, I am particularly fascinated by horses from the steppes of Mongolia.
I think it is a spectacular horse. Therefore achievement Genghis Khan conquered vast territories
We would not be where we are today in society without the horse. Our cultures owe everything to horses. My respect to horses, as individuals and collectively is enormous because horses have survived the human race and grown and prospered within our confines.
We have exploited, eaten, abused and done everything imaginable to the horse and the noble horse remains loyal and steadfast, always ready to give to humans again and again when we ask. Creatures above us all. Magical, wise and knowing.