TRIDENT: Called “the devil’s pitchfork,” it has symbolized major gods in various pagan cultures. In India, it is linked to the Hindu “trident-bearer” Shiva, spouse of the skull-bearing goddess Kali. More recently, this three-sponged spear has been used by Hindu militants in India to intimidate Christians.
The imagery borrows from Poseidon’s trident, Cernunnos’ horns, the association with Vulcan’s fire, Hades’ underworld etc. It boiled down from a wide variety of devil depictions in the Middle Ages; almost a propaganda contest, sort of, who can come up with the most frightening portrayal of evil, what every obedient little Christian should fear and despise. Including symbolisms from the old pagan beliefs.
Manitobaman about 14 years ago
Notice the stir thingees….( whatever they are called) shaped like little pitchforks. Nice touch.
Hillbillyman about 14 years ago
Question: When was the Devil first depicted with a pitch fork..and why?
Manitobaman about 14 years ago
Good question. No idea.
Yukoneric about 14 years ago
TRIDENT: Called “the devil’s pitchfork,” it has symbolized major gods in various pagan cultures. In India, it is linked to the Hindu “trident-bearer” Shiva, spouse of the skull-bearing goddess Kali. More recently, this three-sponged spear has been used by Hindu militants in India to intimidate Christians.
Desultourist about 14 years ago
The imagery borrows from Poseidon’s trident, Cernunnos’ horns, the association with Vulcan’s fire, Hades’ underworld etc. It boiled down from a wide variety of devil depictions in the Middle Ages; almost a propaganda contest, sort of, who can come up with the most frightening portrayal of evil, what every obedient little Christian should fear and despise. Including symbolisms from the old pagan beliefs.
MontanaLady about 14 years ago
Manitobaman……didn’t notice them until you did!!!! Good catch!
lobkiller about 14 years ago
Oven mitts, so she doesn’t get frost-bitten
kjhudlow Premium Member about 14 years ago
Manitobaman, they’re called “beaters”.
Roadrunner Premium Member about 14 years ago
I guess there is no oven preheating involved, just a little thermostat tweak from moderately hellish to low hellish!!
Coyoty Premium Member about 14 years ago
Why hasn’t anyone said “Hell’s Kitchen” yet?
msh1069 about 14 years ago
Has anyone checked to see if Gary Larson is working under the name Scott Hilburn? Just as funny.
Evirtinkelbell about 14 years ago
I love that the devil is a she!!