Gold and Its Cultural Impact

 

Gold is beautiful. This precious metal is prized by people throughout the globe, but what is unique about gold is how its cultural impact is represented as well. Where some see gold as just a mere precious metal, other cultures might regard it as more than just monetarily valuable.

Ancient Egypt

Egyptian history showcases an intense love for gold. Their emphasis on gold was primarily based on the representation the metal had for the sun god Ra. The brilliance and yellow hue of gold was the ideal representation for the sun to Ancient Egypt. Gold was so important, kings and royalty were buried with gold of all types and masks were made of the departed’s face to help them in the afterlife.

Ancient Greece

Stories throughout Greek history are full of mentions of gold. Among the most famous was the story of Midas. In the story, everything he touched turned to gold. Gold was used as both a symbol of power, but also as a warning within the story. Although Midas could be the most wealthy man through his touch, he could not embrace his family, eat, or drink, so the overabundance of gold was not what he had imagined when speaking to the oracle that granted him his gift. Ancient Greece is also noted for being the first people to fashion coins out of gold representing our modern currency.

Hinduism

Gold is highly prized in Hinduism and India is often referred to as the Golden Bird. Since India became a country, the purchase of gold for its citizens has been highly prized. Gold is used as a celebratory expression of wealth and power at weddings throughout the culture. Gold buying and selling gold in India is a way to keep wealth alive and therefore, the country thriving. Citizens are still encouraged to buy as much gold as possible. Even though gold prices fluctuate, the overall value remains strong.

Buddhism

Buddhists believe gold to be a symbol of enlightenment and radiance. Golden Budda statues are common throughout Buddhist countries. In fact, the largest Golden Buddha statue, located in the Wat Traimit Temple in Bangkok is continually covered with gold leaf to ensure it remains vibrant and presentable for followers to come see.

Christianity

Throughout the Bible, gold is used as an important part of civilization’s existence. When the Israelites were leaving Egypt, they were told to ask for gold and left with great wealth. Gold is used to represent power in Revelations when talking about the rapture and the end of days on earth.

As we can see, gold is significant in a variety of different cultures and religions throughout the world. Gold is regarded as power and wealth in virtually all civilizations primarily due to its opulence and rarity. We buy gold, in modern society for a variety of reasons and it is given as a symbol of everlasting love. Gold is and forever will be a symbol of wealth and opulence for humans in a variety of cultures.