Camel

(Camelus bacterianus), Photo: Andreas Korte

Most of the camels are large animals, with a long thin neck, a small head and relatively slender legs. They can weigh 1543lb (700 kilograms). Unlike other cloven-hoofed, camels move with an undulating movement, i.e. stepping forwards with both legs on the same side As they are ruminants, their stomach is composed of separate chambers. Its body is very well adapted to extreme living conditions. As inhabitants of the deserts, they are able to manage water efficiently. Camels are from Asia and dromedaries are from Arabian zone. Camels feed on plants and in the desert they even eat those that are spiny or salty. They have a lifespan of 50 years.

Camels in Mythology: The word "camel" comes from the Semitic world (in Arabic: Gamal). The new name was introduced by the Crusades from the East. They may have been domesticated around 3,000 BC and they are appreciated as pack and riding animals, as well as suppliers of wool, milk and meat. In the Muslim World, they are sometimes worshiped. A legend says that, while the human being knows the 99 names of Allah, the number one hundred is only known by these animals. Camels are frequently named on the Bible. Thus, for example, Rebekah is represented on several occasions along with camels. Abraham sent Eliezer off with a task, “Find a suitable wife for my son, Isaac.” To ensure that he would find the young woman, Eliezer came up with a plan. Hence, the famous “camel test”: After his long travels, Eliezer would ask a young maiden for a sip of water, and if she offered to provide water for his camels as well, she would be the one! Camels have played a crucial role in the legendary spice route.

The Camel in the interpretation of dreams: It represents the unusual and the bizarre. It can also represent the available resources and obedience in relation to a fundamental principle. It may also be "the pack animal" of our unconscious.

Camel essence: This essence gives us perseverance and resistance.

On the body level: It strengthens our survival instinct and our capacity of perseverance. It increases our physical endurance, our vital force and our desire to live.

On the emotional level: The essence helps us cope with times of scarcity and great seasons of drought in our life. At times full of longing, it gives us confidence and strength.

On the spiritual level: It strengthens our confidence and our faith in God and His spiritual guide. Like the Jewish people in the desert, we learn to trust in God and put our destiny in His Hands.