Jambiya/Telek

Tim Simmons · 28th May 2006, 05:20 PM

The Saharan "cross of Agadez" is believed to represent the four directions but could have more powerful masculine connotations. The telek hilt cross is also seen on the camel saddle. In jewellery the arms are most often of equal length and the Christian cross is only superficially similar. This four direction thing might? be common with desert nomads/dwellers so possibly? a link there to Arabia.
A cross motif can be found in use with animist peoples of West Africa and the Congo all having nothing to do with Christianity. Will try to post some examples.

28th May 2006, 05:20 PM	#2
Tim Simmons Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: What is still UK Posts: 5,843	The Saharan "cross of Agadez" is believed to represent the four directions but could have more powerful masculine connotations. The telek hilt cross is also seen on the camel saddle. In jewellery the arms are most often of equal length and the Christian cross is only superficially similar. This four direction thing might? be common with desert nomads/dwellers so possibly? a link there to Arabia. A cross motif can be found in use with animist peoples of West Africa and the Congo all having nothing to do with Christianity. Will try to post some examples.