Sacred Objects in Contemporary CultureLearning Team D

University of Phoenix

HUM/105 – World Mythology

AgendaDiscuss 4 different types of contemporary sacred objects

Explain the myth or story that makes each object sacred.

What does each object symbolize? In what form is the symbolism of each object presented

Olympic Gold Medal

Presented during the modern Olympic Games Leading international sporting event Includes 35 sports and 400 events

Olympic Gold Medal

Back in ancient Greek times the winning athlete was awarded with an olive wreath

Symbolized that an individual was the best at their sport in the world

Olympic Gold Medal

Composed of .925 silver Plated with 6 grams of gold No common design Minimum of 60 mm in diameter Minimum of 3 mm thick Name of sport engraved on the

medal

Rabbit’s Foot

Considered a lucky charm by many individuals throughout numerous cultures.

Rabbit’s Foot

The myth is based upon the myth that a Rabbit was commonly considered an animal that Witches would shapeshift into. 

Although Witches normally are not seen as good, the Rabbit Foot is possibly seen as a prize for capturing or killing a Witch that had shapeshifted into this animal. 

Rabbit’s Foot

The Rabbits foot is normally dried out and preserved Attached to some type of ornamental object which the

person carries around with them. Luck is influenced by the exact time, situation or location that

the rabbit is captured or killed A new or full moon may be occurring at the time of capture or

it may have to be within the confines of a cemetery. The left hind foot is recognized as the "lucky" foot to carry

around.

Borg-Warner Trophy

Awarded to the Indy 500 winner Most coveted trophy in the sport It has gone to the victors of over 100 Indy

500s Kept in Indianapolis, Indiana The winner takes home an 18 inch replica

named the “Baby Borg”

Borg-Warner Trophy

First created in 1935Weighs over 150 lbs.,

stands at 5 feet 4 inches tall

Made of sterling silverCost $10,000 to build,

but is worth upwards of $1 million

Borg-Warner Trophy

This object symbolizes all of the greatest drivers in the history of open wheel Indy Car Racing. It has been said that it is a greater victory to Borg-Warner trophy then to win an Olympic Gold Medal.

Cross

Well-known as a symbol of Christianity

Generations have used the shape of the cross to bring good luck, to save from harm against illness, or to beautify religious articles.

3 forms of crosses are tau, crux ansata, and catholic.

Tau

Symbol for life and or resurrection

Crux Ansata

Represents the concept of “eternal life”

Catholic Crosses

GREEK CROSS – represents the four directions of the “Earth”

ROMANS CROSS - Closely associated with the crucifixion of Jesus Christ

Conclusion

Discussed the stories behind 4 different contemporary sacred objects.

The symbolism they representTheir compositions and how they are displayed

Questions?