Taurus is the second sign of the zodiac and is ruled by Venus, the planet of love and beauty. Represented by a bull, the Taurus symbol is simple yet powerful, featuring a circle with another half-circle resembling a bull's horns on top.
The Majestic Taurus Bull
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
The Taurus bull symbol takes on various forms, from a minimalistic glyph to a detailed illustration of a bull's face and horns.
Taurus, as a sign ruled by Venus, can also be associated with another symbol. This symbol portrays a circle over a cross, representing sensuality, elegance, and materialism triumphing over rational thought.
The Strength and Perseverance of Taurus
Derived from the Latin word for "bull," Taurus embodies strength, tenacity, and power. Like a content bull grazing peacefully, Taurus possesses a calm and peaceful disposition. However, when provoked, their fiery temper can quickly emerge. Tauruses are famously known for being "bull-headed" and are unwavering in their determination to achieve their goals. Patience is also a virtue they possess, understanding that success often requires a slow and steady approach.
When it comes to interpersonal connections, Tauruses are fiercely loyal to their friends and can become formidable foes to those who oppose them. Their tender nature enables them to excel in areas such as cooking, love, and artistry. Tauruses possess a practical and realistic perspective, allowing them to see things in a clear and balanced manner.
Friendship holds great significance to Tauruses, and they are always open to making new connections. Many of their friendships are formed in childhood and last a lifetime. They cherish their relationships and make a conscious effort to nurture them, especially those with whom they share an intimate connection.
The Mythology of Taurus and its Celestial Constellation
The Taurus symbol originates from the Greek story of Europa, the daughter of King Agenor of Phoenicia and Telephassa. Zeus, enchanted by Europa's beauty, took the form of a white bull and approached her by the Phoenician waterside. Overwhelmed by the bull's allure, Europa climbed onto its back.
Zeus, still in the form of a bull, carried Europa across the sea to the Greek island of Crete. It was there that Europa gave birth to three sons. In honor of this tale, Zeus immortalized the image of the bull in the heavens. The bull's head is represented by the Hyades, a group of stars, while the Pleiades, another star cluster, also contributes to the constellation. The brightest seven stars of the Pleiades form their own distinct constellation.
The Celestial Beauty of Taurus
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
The Taurus constellation is most visible in January but can be seen from November through March. The V-shaped star cluster known as the Hyades forms the face of the bull, while the red giant star Aldebaran serves as the bull's eye. Aldebaran is the brightest star in Taurus and the 14th brightest star in the sky.
Another prominent star cluster within Taurus is the Pleiades, consisting of seven stars adorning the bull's shoulder. In Greek mythology, the Pleiades represent the Seven Sisters, the daughters of Atlas and Pleione. Legends suggest that the sisters transformed into stars after they grieved the loss of their fellow star cluster, the Hyades. Another myth narrates how Zeus turned the sisters into stars to protect them from Orion's relentless pursuit. Orion, undeterred, transformed into a constellation and continues to chase the Pleiades across the night sky.
Chinyere (pronounced sha-near-ruh) is a skilled writer who delves into entertainment, pop culture news, and the intricacies of the zodiac signs.
