The Taurus zodiac sign is represented by the bull. This earth sign, governed by the planet Venus, is known for being stubborn, determined, sensual, and down-to-earth. The bull symbol perfectly encapsulates the essence of Taurus energy.
Why is the Bull the Symbol for Taurus?
There are several key characteristics of bulls that align with the core traits of the Taurus zodiac sign:
Strong and Stubborn
One of the most well-known qualities of a Taurus is their legendary stubbornness. Once a Taurus sets their mind on something, they will plow ahead relentlessly until they achieve their goal. Likewise, bulls are incredibly stubborn animals that will keep charging forward regardless of obstacles in their way. They will not easily give up on something they desire. Taurus and bulls share this fixed, immovable determination.
Grounded and Sensual
Taurus is an earth sign, so Taureans feel most connected to the natural world. They take pleasure in tactile experiences, enjoy comfort, and radiate an earthy sensuality. Similarly, bulls are very tied to the earth element. As grazing animals, they spend much of their time connected to the land, engaged in physical, earthly pleasures like eating, sleeping, and mating. Both Taurus and bulls revel in creature comforts.
Financially Savvy and Resourceful
Taureans tend to have practical, business-oriented minds. They are shrewd with money and dislike overspending or financial uncertainty. Bulls are also extremely resourceful animals that know how to find what they need to survive and thrive. Taurus and bulls alike approach prosperity in a methodical, step-by-step manner.
Even-Tempered and Patient
Despite their stubbornness, Taureans are usually even-keeled and slow to anger. They prefer stability and rarely make impulsive decisions. Likewise, bulls are peaceful animals that like to take their time, mulling over choices before taking action. Both Taurus natives and bulls project a calm, unbothered presence. However, they become fearful and reactive when pushed too far out of their comfort zone.
Loyal and Protective
Taurus personalities value tradition, loyalty, and consistency in relationships. They are dependable partners who provide stability for their loved ones. As herd animals, bulls also demonstrate intense loyalty. They will use their formidable strength to protect the other members of the herd from harm. Taureans and bulls devote themselves fully to their tribe once their trust is earned.
Appreciators of Beauty and Quality
Taureans deeply appreciate beauty in all its forms. They surround themselves with objects and experiences that gratify their senses. As grazing animals, bulls also revel in the splendor of their natural surroundings. Flowers, green pastures, and sunshine bring these natural aesthetes contentment. Taurus and Taurus both derive much joy from their environment.
The History and Mythology Behind the Taurus-Bull Connection
The bull as a symbol for the Taurus constellation dates all the way back to the age of mythology. Here are some key myths that established the iconic bond between Taurus and the bull:
The Story of Zeus and Europa
One of the most famous Taurean myths involves Zeus, the Greek king of gods, and Europa, a Phoenician princess. According to the legend, Zeus becomes enamored with the beauty of Europa. To seduce her, he transforms himself into a majestic white bull and mingles with her father’s herds. Charmed by the gentle bull, Europa unwittingly climbs onto Zeus’s back, whereupon he dashes into the sea and spirits her away to the island of Crete. There, Zeus reveals his true identity and Europa becomes the first queen of Crete. The story forever links Taurus with the image of the bull.
The Labors of Hercules
Another iconic myth that fueled the Taurus-bull connection centers on Hercules and his 12 Labors. For one of his Labors, Hercules is tasked with capturing the Cretan Bull that once carried Europa to the island. This ferocious bull had been wreaking havoc on the king’s lands. After a long struggle, Hercules triumphs over the beast and brings it back alive. This epic battle against the legendary Cretan Bull reinforces the Taurean spirit of the bull.
The Bull of Heaven
In ancient Mesopotamia, the Bull of Heaven appears in the famous Epic of Gilgamesh. Inanna, the goddess of love and war, unleashes the giant, otherworldly bull against Gilgamesh and his companion Enkidu when they reject her amorous advances. The two heroes ultimately defeat the celestial bull after an epic battle. The Bull of Heaven comes to represent the astrological sign now known as Taurus.
Taurus Constellation Myths
When the ancient Greeks mapped out the constellations, they assigned a bull shape to the stars that mark the Taurus constellation. Various myths point to different divine bulls as the inspiration behind the stars. Zeus’s disguise as a bull for Europa is one oft-cited origin. The Bull of Heaven is another commonly referenced mythic figure immortalized as the constellation Taurus.
The Bull in Other Ancient Cultures and Traditions
The bull was revered across many ancient cultures for its brute strength, virility, and agricultural importance. Beyond Greek mythology, Taurus was linked to bull symbolism through the following traditions:
Bull Cults of Ancient Egypt
In ancient Egypt, bulls were considered incarnations of divinity and fertility. They worshipped the Apis Bull, a live bull treated as a manifestation of the god Ptah. When the Apis Bull died, it was mummified and buried with reverence, then a new bull would take on the divine role. Bull cults exalted the animal’s power.
Bull-Leaping of Minoan Crete
On the island of Crete, the ancient Minoans performed ceremonial bull-leaping rituals. Young acrobats would grab the horns of a charging bull and vault over its back as a demonstration of skill and bravado. This daring tradition further solidified the connection between Taurus and bulls in mythology.
Mithras the Bull Slayer
Mithras was a pagan god worshipped in ancient Rome. He frequently appeared in artwork slaying a great bull, which represented a triumph over primal bestial energy. Mithras’s role as ‘the bull slayer’ reinforced the idea of Taurus being represented by the wild, untamed nature of the bull.
Ferocity of the Minotaur
The Minotaur, the mythic half-man half-bull monster that inhabited the labyrinth of Crete, encapsulated the raw, fierce energy associated with Taurus. The Minotaur’s menacing bull head and savage nature made him a fearsome symbol of the Taurean shadow.
| Ancient Culture | Connection to Bull Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Ancient Greece | Zeus disguised as a bull; Taurus constellation; Hercules and the Cretan Bull |
| Ancient Egypt | Reverence for Apis Bull deity |
| Minoan Crete | Bull-leaping rituals |
| Ancient Rome | Mithras the Bull Slayer |
| Greek and Minoan Mythology | Minotaur with a bull’s head |
Personalities and Traits of Bulls That Align with Taurus
Beyond mythology, the actual qualities and behaviors of bulls closely align with the astrological significations of the Taurus zodiac sign.
Bulls Are Tenacious and Hardworking
In the face of adversity, bulls stubbornly persist and keep plowing ahead. They have tremendous stamina and work ethic, traits which Taurus is also known for. Taureans commit for the long haul and will diligently chip away to reach their objectives.
They Have Big Appetites and Enjoy Comfort
Bulls spend much of their time eating, chewing their cud, or lounging around enjoying life. Likewise, Taurus natives enjoy food, lazy afternoons, and surrounded themselves with comfortable things. Both Taurus and bulls relish rest and relaxation.
They Can Be Possesive and Territorial
As herd animals, bulls have an innate need to protect their domain and companions. They mark their territory and react when it’s encroached upon. Similarly, Taureans hold tight to their loved ones and possessions. Both bulls and Taurus individuals share a desire for security.
They Have Even Temperaments But Can Rage If Provoked
For the most part, bulls peacefully coexist and ruminate. But when threatened, they see red and charge with horns down. Taurus also has this dichotomy of being extremely patient, then raging bull-like when pushed too far. It takes a lot to make Taurus or a bull lose their cool, but when they hit the boiling point, watch out!
They Accept Things at a Slow, Measured Pace
As large grazing animals, bulls lumber along and thoughtfully consider their surroundings. They reflect the steady, deliberate quality of Taurus energy. Both bulls and Taureans prefer to move at their own unhurried pace rather than be rushed into action. Patience is a virtue for these placid earth creatures.
They Can Be Gentle Despite Their Size
While formidable in size and strength, bulls frequently have a surprisingly tender nature. When they feel safe, they are quite loving, affectionate, and sweet. Beneath their solid exterior, Taurus similarly has a gentle way about them and warm, mushy heart.
Bull Symbolism and Metaphors Connected to Taurus
The iconic bull shape has given rise to many metaphors that align with Taurean traits:
Bullheaded
Stubbornly refusing to change one’s mind fits the persevering persistence of Taurus. Taureans dig in their heels once set on a goal.
Bull Market
Steadily rising stock prices match the financial acumen of Taurus and their desire for material gain and stability. Taurus rules over income and possessions.
Take the Bull by the Horns
To boldly confront a difficult problem head-on shows the Taurean grit to tackle obstacles directly vs. avoiding them.
Bull in a China Shop
The cliche of a lumbering bull clumsily wreaking havoc in delicate surroundings points to the danger of provoking the volatile Taurean rage. Slow to excite but potentially ferocious when activated.
Red Flag to a Bull
Waving a literal red flag infuriates and excites a bull into charging; likewise, certain triggers set off the dramatic Taurean temper when normally placid.
| Bull Metaphor | Connection to Taurus Traits |
|---|---|
| Bullheaded | Stubbornness |
| Bull Market | Financial savvy |
| Take the Bull by the Horns | Confront problems directly |
| Bull in a China Shop | Notorious temper |
| Red Flag to a Bull | Triggers explosive anger |
Celebrities that Embody Classic Taurus-Bull Traits
Many celebrity Bulls wonderfully illustrate the archetypal qualities of the Taurus sign through their personas:
Stevie Wonder’s Sensuality
The sensual Taurus essence oozes through Stevie Wonder’s musical genius and stage presence. He also pursues philanthropic causes with Taurean determination.
Queen Elizabeth’s Consistency
Her decades of steady leadership demonstrates the Taurean penchant for stability and tradition. She maintains elegant surroundings like a true Bull.
George Clooney’s Cool Demeanor
Ultra smooth, charming, and composed, Clooney exemplifies the laidback Taurean temperament…until paparazzi provocation sparks the infamous Taurus anger.
Adele’s Loyalty
She pours emotion into soulful lyrics and shows devotion to loved ones like a typical Taurus. She also enjoys the lush life her talents afford her.
Christiano Ronaldo’s Athleticism
His bull-like stamina, work ethic, and lust for victory channels the driven side of Taurus. He also profits handsomely from his efforts.
| Celebrity | Taurus-Bull Traits Demonstrated |
|---|---|
| Stevie Wonder | Sensuality, philanthropy |
| Queen Elizabeth | Consistency, elegance |
| George Clooney | Cool demeanor, anger when provoked |
| Adele | Loyalty, enjoys luxuries |
| Christiano Ronaldo | Athleticism, drive, profit |
Conclusion
In summation, the Taurus zodiac sign is symbolized by the bull due to their shared traits of determination, sensuality, patience, devotion, and appreciation of beauty and comfort. This symbolic link stretches back to ancient mythic stories that forged the cosmic bond between the constellation Taurus and the imagery of the bull. Beyond myth, the actual behaviors and temperament of bulls closely mirror Taurean tendencies. The bull remains one of the most fitting mascots for the astrological sign it represents. Taurus exemplifies the core essence of the bull spirit.