The táltos (also “tátos”) is a figure in ancient Hungarian mythology similar to a shaman.
According to legend, a táltos was in direct contact with God during the prenatal period. Once born, the táltos had a special mission in life to cure both body and soul of other members of society. The táltos could be either male or female, and should be born with unusual features, like six fingers or already-grown-in teeth.
During their childhood, they had to be brought up in secret to learn everything to be some kind of shaman.
The táltos was able to go into a deep meditation called “révülés”, and in such a state could cure sickness of any kind. The táltos also had a mission to communicate with the entire Hungarian nation in a time of danger, to warn against invading armies or an impending cultural collapse. (wikipedia)
enjoyed “my stay” in Budapest ….. :)
Ram
Fascinating..I learn from the blogs everyday. In my ignorance I knew nothing about Hungarian mythology. Great picture.
Very interesting! Great pic, too.
I wonder how the horse is involved. Beautiful photo!
I guess he was riding it:)
Zsolt:
The instrument in his left hand looks like a drum of animal skin. it is very much like the Bodhran used in Ireland. Playing is done using a stick or “beater.” I’ve heard differing opinions on the ultimate origin of the bodhán. Some writers believe that the drum originated in Africa and came to Ireland by way of Spain. Other people believe that it originated in Central Asia, and was carried through Europe to Ireland by the Celtic migrations.