The Heavenly Camel: A Somali Creation Myth
In the beginning, the sky was low enough to touch, and the Somali people lived in close communion with the stars. The creator god Waaq formed the first camel from the morning mist and gave it to the people as the most valuable of all animals — able to travel for days without water, carry heavy loads, and provide milk, meat, and shelter. The camel was so beloved that the people became distracted by its abundance and forgot to pray. Waaq grew angry and lifted the sky high out of reach, separating humanity from the divine realm. But he left the camel as a reminder of his generosity. To this day,