Humans and animals have had a connection as old as time, in many cultures animals are worshipped as Gods, and in others they are seen as tokens of luck – both good and bad. Many of us identify with certain creatures, as our Spirit Animal, and look to them for power, wisdom and intuition.
Read on, as we explore why certain mammals have been adopted as Spirit Animal totems.
Bat, Bear, Beaver and Black Sheep
Bat
The bat has been linked to vampires and witchcraft, and also to the devil. It is often considered part-bird/part rat. Summed up in one word, its meaning would be ‘duplicity’! In some cultures, it is associated with the bringing of rain.
Bear
The bear symbolises healing and medicine as well as wisdom to many. As a spirit animal bears are often associated with war divinities, and the sentiments of courage and strength.
Beaver
Interestingly in Christian tradition, the beaver represents chastity. In nature it is known as a ‘builder’, and that is probably why it is associated with industry and perseverance, but also family and home.
Black Sheep
We are all probably familiar with the expression ‘black-sheep’, and it does represent not conforming, and maverick behaviour. But, also in the sense of the flock it belongs to, as being meek and needing guidance.
Boar, Camel, Cow & Coyote
Boar
The Celts considered the boar a sacred animal with supernatural power, and in fact in many cultures it was considered a shapeshifter. Like the bear, its traits are considered to be strength and courage – but also ferocity.
Camel
When we think of camels, we often picture the hump and probably think of the dessert. And its ability to live in difficult climes, is probably why it is known for humility, stamina, moderation and temperance. It is also associated with royalty and wealth, and prayer (a symbol of its kneeling).
Cow
In Hinduism, the cow is considered the most sacred of animals. It is a sign of maternal instincts and of nourishment. Its crescent shaped horns are associated with the Moon, and its milk of the Milky Way star.
Coyote
Many will picture the cartoon – the wily coyote, and they would be spot-on, as this mammal is considered to be a trickster! But there are lessons to be learned here, and it is about the balance of folly and wisdom.
Donkey, Elephant, Fox & Gazelle
Donkey
Donkeys are known for being stubborn, and so it is associated with obstinacy, but also humility and patience.
Elephant
For Hindus, they have Ganesha – an elephant-headed God. In Africa and Asia, the elephant was revered for sovereign power. To many this is a popular spirit animal, and represents strength and stability, but also patriarchy and wisdom.
Fox
Much like the coyote, the fox has a label of being a trickster. In literature they are often in disguise, and can be sly and duplicitous.
Gazelle
When fleeing from predators in the wild, it is deemed to be the soul taking flight from earthly passions. They are symbols of speed, grace and peace.
Goat, Hare, Hippo & Jackal
Goat
If you have ever seen a mountain goat climb, you will know why they are associated with determination and agility. The humble goat is linked to three Ancient Greek Gods – Dionysus, Pan and Zeus. They are also associated with fertility and lust!
Hare
The hare is linked to fertility and the Moon, and in Europe it was a companion of witches. Whereas in the East it was considered a reincarnation of the Buddha. To some it is a hero, to others a slippery customer!
Hippopotamus
We often think of hippos as wallowing in the mud, as it did in the Nile in Ancient Egypt – it was associated with re-birth and rejuvenation. Goddess Tawaret (child-birth and protection) is depicted as a pregnant hippo. However, a red hippo is more often associated with God Seth and disharmony.
Jackal
The jackal was worshipped as ‘Anubis’ in Ancient Egypt, revered for receiving the dead and facilitating their passage on to the next world. Elsewhere it is considered a scavenger and is aligned with destruction!
Kangaroo, Lamb, Monkey and Mouse & Rat
Kangaroo
We immediately think of Australia, when we talk about Kangaroos and to them this animal is symbolic of progress (Kangaroos can only move forwards) and also energy and endurance (they can go months without water) and family ties.
Lamb
In Christianity the lamb represents Christ and sacrifice. It is seen as a humble and meek animal, known for its gentleness and is an icon for innocence.
Monkey
Maybe with monkeys, you think of the saying “See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil,” which hails from Japan, where they revere the monkey and associate it with the ‘right way’. Interestingly it is not seen that way culture wide, some believe it stands for vanity and deception.
Mouse & Rat
Both mice and rats are known for gnawing and destroying anything and everything. So, perhaps that is why mice were considered to be devil-like, as they chewed on the ‘Tree of Life’. Rats on the other hand, can be known for death and decay, but by some are aligned with prosperity and luck.
Ox, Pegasus, Rabbit and Racoon
Ox
To Buddhists the white Ox represents wisdom and contemplation. The founder of Taoism – Lao Tzu, associated this animal with wealth and strength.
Pegasus
Of course, Pegasus is a mythical creature not actual mammal – but makes the list as it has long been revered as a spiritual symbol, and is associated with ‘speed of thought’.
Rabbit
To us the rabbit is often a domestic pet, but it is actually a Lunar symbol with ancient links. Pet rabbits are often timid, and this icon is known for that attribute too, along with speed, vigilance, fertility and for fleeing temptation!
Racoon
Like a couple of animals on this list, the raccoon is seen as a master of disguise and trickery. As such it is known for its dexterity, mischief, but above all its ability to adapt.
Ram, Rhino, Stag, White Horse and Wolf
Ram
In terms of the zodiac, the ram is Aries and it is a fire symbol associated with the Sun and sky Gods, it has a masculine energy and the horns represent thunder.
Rhinoceros
The rhino is one of many animals that represent wildlife conservation, as in their native lands they are still hunted for their horns – which are turned into an aphrodisiac medicine. They symbolise harmony, tenacity, energy and courage.
Stag
The stag features in many Heraldic motifs, the antlers represent the ‘the tree of life’ and regeneration, and it is of course associated with fertility and hunting.
White Horse
The white horse, put simply represents resurrection and spiritual enlightenment. To many it is a symbol of happiness.
Wolf
The Wolf is a very common spirit animal and totem, and is fitting to end with. To many it represents a spirit guide that provides passage to the afterlife. The wolf can be associated with cunning and greed, but more often it is looked to for maternal care and courage.
Ref: Signs & Symbols, An Illustrated Guide to their Origins and Meanings
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