Sphinges, also spelled as "sphinxes," are mythological creatures commonly found in ancient Greek and Egyptian traditions. These creatures are typically portrayed as having the head of a human and the body of a lion, or sometimes other animals such as a bull or a ram. Sphinges are known for their enigmatic nature and were often associated with riddles and wisdom.
In Greek mythology, the most famous sphinx is the creature that terrorized the city of Thebes until it was vanquished by Oedipus. This sphinx posed a riddle to all who passed by, and if they failed to solve it, they would be devoured. The riddle famously asked: "What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs in the afternoon, and three legs in the evening?" Oedipus answered correctly, saying it was man, who crawls as a baby, walks upright as an adult, and uses a cane in old age, thus freeing the city from the sphinx's reign of terror.
In Egyptian mythology, sphinges were often depicted as benevolent guardians, often standing at the entrance of temples or tombs. These sphinges often had the head of a human, usually a pharaoh or a god, and the body of a lion. They were believed to possess wisdom and act as protectors against evil. Often associated with solar deities, sphinges were also seen as guardians of sacred knowledge and cosmic secrets.
In summary, sphinges are mythological creatures with the head of a human and the body, usually a lion. They are known for their riddles and wisdom in Greek mythology, while in Egyptian mythology, they act as benevolent protectors and guardians of sacred knowledge.
