Rainbow Serpent facts for kids
A Rainbow Serpent is a very important creature in the Dreamtime stories of many Aboriginal people. They believe this giant serpent created the mountains, rivers, and lakes across Australia. Stories about the Rainbow Serpent are told all over the country, especially in Arnhem Land in northern Australia.
The serpent has different names in various Aboriginal languages, like Almudj and Ngalyod. It is said to live in waterholes and controls the water supply, which is vital for life.
How the World Was Made
In the Dreamtime, the Rainbow Serpent played a huge role in shaping the world. At the very beginning of time, the Rainbow Serpent woke up from its long sleep. It pushed its way through the Earth's surface.
As it moved across the empty land, it left behind deep tracks. The Rainbow Serpent then called to the frogs to come out from under the ground. It tickled their bellies, and when they laughed, water poured out from their open mouths. This water filled the deep tracks left by the Rainbow Serpent, creating rivers and lakes.
Slowly, green grass began to grow. Then, all kinds of Australian creatures woke up and found their places. This included birds, lizards, snakes, kangaroos, koalas, and dingoes.
Ancient Art and Deep Meanings
Aboriginal artists have painted the Rainbow Serpent for thousands of years. The oldest cave paintings found are about 8,000 years old. These paintings are often found on cave walls or on pieces of bark.
In special ceremonies, people sometimes honor the Rainbow Serpent. They might paint their handprints on images of the powerful snake. Scientists think the Rainbow Serpent stories began around the end of the last ice age. Rising sea levels at that time forced many people to move further inland.
The Rainbow Serpent became a symbol of many things. It represents both creation and destruction, showing its power to make and unmake. It also stands for unity and peace. This makes the Rainbow Serpent a symbol of the world's oldest continuing religion.
Images for kids
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Myndie c. 1878
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Wonambi naracoortensis and Thylacoleo
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Sidney Nolan's Snake (1970-72), held at the Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart, is a giant Rainbow Serpent mural made of 1620 painted panels.
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See also
In Spanish: Serpiente Arco Iris para niños
