old Orlanth myth query

From: David Ford <diadochi_at_...>
Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2002 00:58:38 +0000

Could someone answer or suggest an answer to this for me.

According to the myth about Orlanth. When he was only five hours old, say the tales, he set off on his first adventure, armed only with a comb and a rattle. With those, he challenged the Emperor of the Universe, Yelm himself, to a dancing contest. Orlanth did a war dance, while Yelm did a ballet.

What is the symbolism here of the comb and rattle? Why was Orlanth so audacious to challenge Yelm at such an early age with such small weapons?

Any comment, ideas, welcome.

David