Image Details

Bull figurine. Standing firmly on four hooves, this young bull differs from similar artifacts, such as that from Hazor, which were found with extensions from the hooves to attach the figures to cult vessels. This bull has well defined genitalia demonstrating potency and power and deep eye sockets which may once have held semi-precious stones (see drawings). Perhaps the bull was a votive offering symbolizing the strength and virility of a pagan god, or perhaps the bull was worshipped as a deity itself. Either or both aspects may help us understand the cult of the golden calf in the Bible.