It flashed all over inside my head and fortunately I had a pen and a notebook.
Here's what I've caught:
The Hawk Queen and King
The Raven Queen and King
The Hummingbird King
The Bear King
The Deer King
The Lynx Queen
The Mountain Lion King
The Salmon King and Queen
The Moose King
The Weasel King
The Crow King
The Butterfly King
The Wolf King and Queen
The Snake Queen
The Buffalo King
The Ant Queen
The Jaguar Queen
The Dolphin King
The Rabbit King
The Horse King
That's all I got, but what does this all mean really? Can anyone help me?
In the broadest and most abstract sense, the king symbolizes universal
and archetypal Man. As such, according to animistic and astrobiological ways of
thought widespread from India to Ireland (21), he possesses magic and supernatural powers. He also expresses the ruling or governing principle, supreme
consciousness, and the virtues of sound judgement and self-control (56). At the
same time, a coronation is equivalent to achievement, victory and consummation
(33). Hence any man may properly be called a king when he achieves the culminating point in the unfolding of his individual life. Deriving from, and equated
with the king-symbolism are the symbols for gold, the sun and Jupiter. These
symbols imply in essence the idea that the king is Man transposed to the solar
plane, to the ideal or ‘golden’ situation—that is, ‘saved’ and made eternal. The
idea of immortality was passed from god to monarch, and only later was it
vouchsafed to the hero and later still to ordinary mortals in so far as they merited
the ‘crown’ of success, having overcome certain obstacles (usually of a moral
order). The king, quite apart from all this, may also symbolize the ‘royalty’—’or
grandeur—of Man. In this case, he may be subjected to a period of unfavourable
or painful circumstances; when this is so, the particular symbol becomes that of
the ‘sick king’ (like Amfortas in Parsifal), or of the ‘sea-king’ (signifying the
negative aspect of humanity) (32). Love also plays a highly important part in the
symbolism of royalty, since love is held to be one of the most obvious of culminating points in the life of Man. This is why the bride and bridegroom in the
Greek marriage-ceremony wear crowns made of some precious metal. The king
and queen together comprise the perfect image of the hieros gamos, of the union
of heaven and earth, sun and moon, gold and silver, sulphur and mercury; and—
according to Jung—they also signify the spiritual ‘conjunction’ that takes place
when the process of individuation is complete, with the harmonious union of the
unconscious and consciousness. The title of king is bestowed upon the most
outstanding specimen in every species or type: so, the lion is the king of beasts,
as is the eagle of birds or gold among the metals (57). To come back to the
symbolism of the ‘sick king’, he—like such afflicted heroes as Philoctetes—
signifies, on the one hand, the punishment which pursues sin as the shadow
follows the body (given the existence of the light of consciousness), and, on the
other, sterility of spirit. A particularly significant instance of the symbolic process is implied by the king’s projecting his spiritual state on to nature around him,
as happens with Amfortas in Parsifal, in the Waste Land of Eliot, and, to some
extent, the Fall of the House of Usher by Poe. As for the ‘sea-king’, he is symbolic
of the ocean (another version of Neptune) and therefore personifies the deeps of
the unconscious in their regressive and evil form as opposed to the waters of the
‘Upper Ocean’ (the clouds, rain or fresh water) which are fecund (32). The ‘aged
king’—such as Dhritarashtra, the aged monarch of Vedic epics, or king Lear, or all
those aged kings of legends and folktales—is symbolic of the world-memory, or
the collective unconscious in its widest and most all-embracing sense (38). The
king often exhibits, in concentrated form, the characteristics of the father and the
hero, and there is a touch of the Messianic about him; by inversion of the temporal order of things, what is past becomes ‘what is to pass’ and the dead king is
supposed by his subjects to be living a strange existence as a ghost, later to return
to his country when it is in great danger. This legend tends to accrue to the names
of historical monarchs,who have fallen in strange or unhappy circumstances, as in
the case of the Portuguese dom Sebastian or that of don Rodrigo, the last of the
Gothic kings. The supreme example is the mythic king Arthur, called by Malory
Arthurus, rex quondam, rexque futurus (q.v.) (16).
To see a king in your dream, indicates that success and prestige are within reach. You will rise above your problems and adversities. The king is symbolic of power and control. Alternatively, the king symbolizes your father or some father figure. You are looking for support.
To dream that you are the king, represents your masculine power. Alternatively, it indicates that you have attained a high level of authority and power. Perhaps you are becoming too domineering or overly confident.
To dream of a king, you are struggling with your might, and ambition is your master.
To dream that you are crowned king, you will rise above your comrades and co-workers.
If you are censured by a king, you will be reproved for a neglected duty.
For a young woman to be in the presence of a king, she will marry a man whom she will fear. To receive favors from a king, she will rise to exalted positions and be congenially wedded.
To appear before a friendly king is a sign of great success, and before a cruel king is
very unfavourable.
Seeing a king in your dream means much success and prestige to be headed your way. It is symbolic of power and control. Dreaming that you are the king, suggests that you will rise above your problems and adversities. Alternatively, it is an expression of your masculine power.
To see a queen in your dream, symbolizes intuition, personal growth, power and influence. The queen is also a symbol for your mother.
For a woman to dream that she is a queen, indicates a desire for increased status and power. Alternatively, it may indicate that you need to listen to others. The queen may also be a metaphor for a homosexual man.
To dream of a queen, foretells successful ventures. If she looks old or haggard, there will be disappointments connected with your pleasures.
Seeing a queen in your dream, symbolizes intuition and personal growth. The queen is also a symbol for your mother. For a woman to dream that she is a queen indicates your desire for increased status and power. Alternatively, it may indicate that you need to listen to others.
To see a lynx in your dream, symbolizes secrecy. You need to expose and examine those secrets and learn from them. There is more to be known and more to be learned about a situation, relationship, or problem.
Seeing a lynx in your dream, symbolizes secrecy. There is more to be known and more to be learned. You need to expose and examine those secrets and learn from them.
Secrets of hidden and the unseen, ability to see lies and falsehoods, teaches inner workings of others, keen sight, careful not to break confidences, people may become uncomfortable around you, trust intuitions teaches ability to access secrets, mysteries and hidden aspects of yourself. Lynx teaches awareness and insights of thoughts, totem_images, dreams and visions. Lynx also teaches to be take care in breaking confidences and the trusts of others, there must be a balance with this conscious knowing. Are keeping quiet when you need to express? or vice versa? Be aware and observe your discoveries.
To see a buffalo in your dream, symbolizes survival, strength, and power. The dream may also warn that you are deviating from your life path and goals. Alternatively, the dream represents your heritage and your roots. In particular, if you see a white buffalo in your dream, then it means that your desires or wishes will be fulfilled.
To see an injured or killed buffalo, forewarns that you need to carefully think through any new ventures and projects that you are undertaking.
To see a herd of buffalo in your dream, signifies tranquility and plentitude.
If a woman dreams that she kills a lot of buffaloes, she will undertake a stupendous enterprise, but by enforcing will power and leaving off material pleasures, she will win commendation from men, and may receive long wished for favors. Buffalo, seen in a dream, augurs obstinate and powerful but stupid enemies. They will boldly declare against you but by diplomacy you will escape much misfortune.
Dreaming of a buffalo, symbolizes survival. The dream may warn that you are go off your life path. Dreaming of an injured or killed buffalo, forewarns that you must not accept any new ventures. Dreaming of a herd of buffalo means tranquility and plentitude.
To be clear, this page on Symbolic Buffalo Meaning actually details symbolism of the Bison. In order to reach a wider audience with this information, I've identified the page as "Buffalo" but technically the information I've been prompted to share is related to the bison. Click here to learn the difference between Buffalo and Bison.
That settled, this mammoth creature is one of the most Titanic of mammals, weighing up to or over a ton.
I've had the chilling honor of seeing a Buffalo face-to-face in the depths of winter and I was awestruck by its girth. Further, I remember being completely transfixed by its presence. Steam swirling from flared nostrils, a dark horned beast emerging from a white realm of crystalline snow. Remarkable.
This sight instantly transported me into Native American realms, and it become clear why the American Bison was such a revered symbol, particularly with tribes of the Central North American plains.
Some keywords pertaining to symbolic Buffalo meaning include:
Provision
Gratitude
Abundance
Consistency
Strength
Stability
Blessing
Prosperity
When I saw that dark massive Bison emerging from a thick veil of mist, I thought my heart would stop. I was so enamored with the image. That Bison was gargantuan, I was quite sure it could block the sun if it had inclination to do so.
I talked to a Lakota friend of mine, and she confirmed the symbolic Buffalo meaning I cited in the list above. She also told me the Buffalo was a true reminder of the greater whole. She explained the Buffalo is like a hologram - one example of abundance - it's behemoth features are a physical manifestation of the store-holds available in the energetic realms.
She also told me the White Buffalo is the considered incredibly holy. When the White Buffalo comes into our awareness (dreams, vision or even while hiking) it is a huge sign of promise, and great prosperity is soon to come after sighting this regal creature.
In Native American Indian legend the Buffalo is associated with smoke/tobacco/the pipe, which firms up its status as a sacred animal. As the legend goes, the White Buffalo Calf Woman appeared to the Lakota long ago. She imparted her wisdom of agriculture - but more importantly, WBCW proffered a specialized understanding of the ways of the Universe to her people.
White Buffalo Calf Woman illustrated, in magical ways, that all things are interconnected. She reminded the Lakota of the gravity of being human, and how our presence impacts and influences everything else. With this kind of power, comes great responsibility, and she gave the people the Sacred Pipe, that, upon smoking, revealed the truth of her words.
I didn't need a sacred pipe to remind me of WBCWs timeless wisdom when I saw that Bison framed against the silvery tendrils of its steamed breath. It was very clear to me, in that moment, majesty truly exists. I know my reverence for the bison has been categorized within the Great Spirit, and I know my devout respect for this creature contributes to a grand symphony of honor that still continues to play out today.
That's what the symbolic Buffalo meaning says to me. It reminds me I am always provisioned and my attitude towards abundance influences the rest of this planet.
These are the questions asked of me when that Bison and I met on that cold morning:
Are you grateful?
Do you respect what has been given?
Are you ignoring the abundance around you?
Do you squander the bounty?
Do hunt down resources rather that trust your coffers are always stocked?
Are you missing the opportunity to recognize true blessings?
Take time to research and learn about symbolic Buffalo meaning with an aim to satisfy your own personal inquisitiveness about this magnificent creature. I promise, your positive investment in learning about the Bison ways will influence your environment in tremendous ways.
The buffalo is the most sacred animal in Native American traditions. It represents the Great Spirit manifested. Having this as your power animal indicates the importance of sharing and caring for all.
Abundance, incorporates our own efforts to embrace and hold life, burdens and rewards are carried, keep self well grounded, follow the easiest path, don't use force in areas of life, flow with it. Teaches creativity, courage, sacred knowledge, sharing with a sense of community, survival strategies, teaches how to challenge with forthrightness and grace. A time to honor your path and ask for assistance from Spirit. Buffalo teaches abundance and strength of character along with harmony and expression of gratitude and honor for all creatures. Do you have gratitude? Strength? Surviving with courage?
Seeing a snake or be bitten by one in your dream means hidden fears and worries that are threatening you. Your dream may be alerting you to something in your waking life that you are not aware of or that has not yet surfaced. The snake may also be seen as phallic and thus symbolize dangerous and forbidden sexuality. The snake may also refer to a person around you who is callous, ruthless, and can't be trusted. As a positive symbol, snakes represent transformation, knowledge and wisdom. It is indicative of self-renewal and positive changes.
In some cultures snakes are highly regarded and symbolise the ability to transcend into higher levels of consciousness or into areas of knowledge that exist outside perceived time and space. In the pre-Christian days, snakes were considered symbols of fertility, healing, and nurturing (the healing serpent representing a god). Post Eden, snakes are often considered symbols of temptation and evil, anger, and envy. Snakes emerging out of the ground may represent your unconscious or repressed materials coming to your conscious mind. Most snake dreams seem to be disturbing and they leave the dreamer feeling anxious and afraid. There are no simple interpretations to the snake dreams. Sometimes snakes may be phallic symbols and other times they represent negativity in our lives that hampers our progress and constantly threatens us. In the long run the snake may be a positive symbol; it may represent difficulties that lead us to the centre of personality and result in feelings of completeness.
Snake symbolic meaning, overwhelmingly and in various cultures, deals with primordial life force and usually turns our attention to gender supremacy (both male and female).
Consequently, snakes span the symbolic bridge between lunar and solar associations as well as aspects between water and fire.
Coiled within this polarity, we clearly see symbolism of duality and the search for balance. Other snake symbolic meaning includes:
Cycles
Rebirth
Patience
Fertility
Eternity
Balance
Cunning
Intuition
Awareness
Healing
Intellect
Protection
Solemnity
Rejuvenation
Transformation
Occult (hidden) Knowledge
Male/Female, Yin-Yang, Duality
As a Native American Indian symbol (depending on the nation/tribe) the snake can be a masculine symbol, associated with the phallus of lightning which is considered a medicine staff of tremendous assertive power. Other tribes lean in the direction of feminine attribution for the snake and pair it with mothering (creation), and lunar (moon) symbolism.
Whether raising itself in masculine authority, or encircling the Earth in a motherly fashion – the snake symbol of the Native American’s was highly regarded; utilized in ritual to invoke an element of pointed focus and weighty influence.
The ancient Celts were extremely nature-wise too, and approached snake symbolism from the behavior and life cycle of this magnificent creature. From the Celtic perspective, the snake was a symbol of secret knowledge, cunning and transformation.
Further, the snake Celtic symbol comes from observations of the European viper (also known as the adder) which is the only (along with the common grass snake) species able to tolerate the colder climate of the ancient Celts.
In the keen Celtic mind, snake symbolic meaning of transformation came from the shedding of its skin. Physical evidence of leaving its form behind (casting off the old self), and emerging a sleeker, newer version made the snake a powerful symbol of rebirth and renewal.
As far as the occult (hidden) symbolic meaning in Celtic and other cultures, this can be connected to the sleuth-like ways of the snake.
Disappearing in colder months and summoned by the sun marks the snake’s connection to the shadow worlds with its successful ability to live within the dark realms for extended periods of time. Alternatively, the snake softly moves into the embrace of the sun, and so it encapsulates the ancient magician's creed of moving in perfect rhythm of natural forces.
In Eastern Indian myth the Sanskrit word for snake is naga and these are associated with the element of water. Picking up water’s symbolism of emotion, love and motion, nagas in this light are considered a feminine aspect and embody nurturing, benevolent, wise qualities.
To wit, the practice of nagayuna in Eastern Indian alchemy seeks to achieve loving harmony between the physical and ethereal. Simply put, all of us striving to better ourselves by calmly easing into places of personal balance within the cosmic balance of the whole are practicing this ancient technique.
Snake tattoo symbolism varies according to the bearer of the mark. For example, I have a back piece depicting two serpents (nagas) wrapped around the seven prime chakras down the length of my spine. This (to me) incorporates the kundalini power available to all humans.
Additionally, this entwined snake imagery hearkens to the caduceus, in which the staves of Asclepius are made of two polar (and copulating) serpents which symbolizes balance, equanimity, union and regeneration.
Double snakes are common in almost all cultural symbolic languages. Ultimately the double snake is an icon representing:
Connection between primal forces
Integration of opposites
Advanced communication
Joining together on a divine level
Making whole what was once fragmented and doing so in a magical, organic way.
Snake Double HelixCarrying this dual snake imagery a step further, we could look to the language of science. Observe the formation of DNA and how it forms a perfect, serpentine double helix (shown left). This prompts us to consider how the energetic mind is connected to the grander whole, and how it so effortlessly makes graceful connections between the basic building blocks of data with the manifestations of the natural world.
There is no doubt, the snake is a unifying force embodying infinite messages to those who are energetically available to perceive them. Alchemists understood this, and thus incorporated the philosophy of snakes in their grimoires, practices, and even their daily life.
Indeed, alchemy literature is rife with the image of the uroboros which is symbolic of conceptualizing totality – embracing the whole of consciousness and devouring it with unquenchable passion.
As an animal totem, the snake surfaces into our awareness with all the power of the symbolic attributes listed on this page (and more). Those who are drawn to the snake (and vice versa) are gifted at perceiving life through an uncommon lens. Other characteristics of those who are connected to snake energy include:
A natural ability to balance energies (you’re likely a gifted healer)
Diplomatic and eloquent in areas of speech and writing
Dynamically intuitive (often knowing other’s thoughts and emotional states without trying)
Impulsive, but not without careful consideration – this may sound paradoxical, but those with the snake totem know what I mean here.
I invite you to step into the calming energy of the snake, and see what this noble creature offers you in the form of messages, growth, and enlightenment.
Further, it should be understood this page is but a miniscule sampling of the diverse snake symbolic meaning s available to us. Therefore, I encourage you to slither into your own personal ruminations, research and meditation of the snake.
You will find your investment to be infinitely rewarding.
By shedding its skin, the snake symbolizes change in the cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth. It counts among its strengths the power of creation, of se xuality, of the soul, as well as of transformation and immortality. Snake-people are higher cast, because as part of their experiences they have had to come into contact with poison (physical or mental) and have been able to transform the poison in their bodies into something harmless. The snake belongs to the element of fire, which causes desire and passion in the physical realm and, in the spiritual realm, creates a connection with the Great Spirit and leads to all-encompassing wisdom. Whenever the snake appears in your dreams, it is a sign of change as you come ever closer to perfection.
This animal gives you the ability to let go of things that are worn out and no longer useful - just like the snake sheds it skin when it is no longer needed.
Rebirth, wisdom, fluidity, wholeness, transmutations, sexuality, look for transitions, changes and new opportunities. Creative forces are awakening with heightened intuition. Snake can teach about shedding what is not needed; perceptions, attitudes, ideals. Snake shows how to access vitality, ambitions and dreams along with intellect and personal power. What things are surfacing that you need to strike out and take advantage of? Perhaps a time to rest and reflect? Listen to your intuition and visions at this time. Contemplate the colors, striking ability and activity of the snake type to further understand what snake is saying.
Symbolic of valour among the Romans and the Egyptians. It also
appears as a guardian in a great many monuments (8). In Nordic mythology we
are told of a monstrous wolf, Fenris, that would destroy iron chains and shackles
and was eventually shut up in the bowels of the earth. It was also said that, with
the twilight of the gods—the end of the world—the monster would break out of
this prison too, and would devour the sun. Here, then, the wolf appears as a
symbol of the principle of evil, within a pattern of ideas which is unquestionably
related to the Gnostic cosmogony. Nordic mythology presupposes that cosmic
order is possible only through the temporary shackling of the chaotic and destructive potential of the universe—a potential which (through the process of
Symbolic Inversion—q.v.) must triumph in the end. The myth is also connected
with all other concepts of the final annihilation of the world, whether by water or
by fire.
To dream of a wolf, shows that you have a thieving person in your employ, who will also betray secrets.
To kill one, denotes that you will defeat sly enemies who seek to overshadow you with disgrace. To hear the howl of a wolf, discovers to you a secret alliance to defeat you in honest competition.
To see a wolf in your dream, symbolizes survival, beauty, solitude, mystery, self-confidence and pride. You are able to keep your composure in a variety of social circumstances and blend into any situation with ease and grace. You are also a loner by choice. Negatively, the wolf represents hostility, aggression, or sneakiness. It may reflect an uncontrollable situation or an all-consuming force in your life. This could point to an obsession, an addiction or something that is beyond your control.
To see a white wolf in your dream, signifies valor and victory. You have the ability to see the light even in your darkest hours.
To dream that you kill a wolf, indicates betrayal. Certain secrets will be revealed to you.
To hear a wolf howling in your dream, represents a cry for help from somebody in your waking life.
Seeing a wolf in your dream, symbolizes beauty, solitude, mystery, self-confidence and pride. You are able to keep your composure in a variety of social situations and can blend in with any situation with ease and grace. You are a loner by choice. Negatively, it represents hostility and aggression. It may also reflect an uncontrollable force or situation in your life. In particular, if the wolf is white, then it means valor and victory. You have the ability to see the light even in your darkest hours. Dreaming that you kill a wolf indicates betrayal and secrets revealed.
Wolf Meaning and Totem Symbolism of the Wolf
To understand totem wolf symbols, one must first understand the heart of the Wolf. This takes time because the Wolf has had to endure many false stereotypes, misconceptions and misunderstandings.
Not at all the picture of ferocity or terror, the Wolf is a creature with a high sense of loyalty and strength. Another misconception is that of the “lone wolf.” To the contrary, the Wolf is actually a social creature, friendly, and gregarious with its counterparts.
The Wolf is an incredible communicator. By using touch, body movements, eye contact as well as many complex vocal expressions – the wolf makes his point understood. Those with totem wolf symbols are of the same inclination – they are expressive both vocally and physically. Those who have the wolf as their totem animal are naturally eloquent in speech, and also have knack for creative writing.
A quick-list of totem wolf symbolic attributes include:
Intelligence
Cunning
Communication
Friendliness
Loyalty
Generosity
Compassionate
Totem wolf symbols belong to those who truly understand the depth of passion that belong to this noble creature. The Wolf is a representative of deep faith, and profound understanding.
Further, the Wolf possess a high intellect, and have been observed using strategies about hunting, habitat and migration.
In history, the totem Wolf symbol appears with the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus. Legend has it that the two founding brothers were raised and suckled by a she-wolf.
In Norse mythology, the Wolf is a symbol for victory when ridden by Odin and the Valkyries upon the battlefield.
As a Celtic symbol, the Wolf was a source of lunar power. Celtic lore states that the Wolf would hunt down the sun and devour it at each dusk so as to allow the power of the moon to come forth.
In Asia, the wolf guards the doors that allow entrance to heavenly, celestial realms. The Wolf is also said to be among the ancestry of Genghis Khan.
When this gracious creature appears to us, and serves as a totem in our lives, the Wolf beckons us to ask these questions:
Are you thinking about a different form of education?
Are you being a true friend, and are your friends being true to you?
Are you communicating yourself clearly to others?
Are you being loyal to yourself?
Are you incorporating strategies and planning to achieve your goals?
Are you spending enough quality time with yourself, friends and family?
The wolf represents your inner teacher. It will help you to find your life path.
Royalty, spirit, strength, friendly, family, sociable, intelligent, ritualistic in nature (applies to all of life), balances flexibility to establish harmony and order in life, new paths and journeys, freedom to move within the realms of insights and attachments. Teaches able to be steadfast, familial protection, Epitome of the wild spirit. Wolf guides the use of resources and the lesson of adaptability along with teaching and instruction. Wolf helps to tap into inner strength and intuition. Sometimes transformation accompanies Wolf's lessons. Are you using your resources wisely for the greater good? Are you nourishing your family and those around you? Are you listening to your instincts to avoid confrontations? Wolf will add in balancing harmony and wisdom to take control of your life.
Among the ancients, an emblem of the soul and of unconscious
attraction towards the light (8). The purification of the soul by fire, represented
in Romanesque art by the burning ember placed by the angel in the prophet’s
mouth, is visually portrayed on a small Mattei urn by means of an image of love
holding a butterfly close to a flame (8). The Angel of Death was represented by
the Gnostics as a winged foot crushing a butterfly, from which we may deduce
that the butterfly was equated with life rather than with the soul in the sense of
the spirit or transcendent being (36). This also explains why psychoanalysis
regards the butterfly as a symbol of rebirth (56). In China, it has the secondary
meanings of joy and conjugal bliss (5).
To see a butterfly in your dream, denotes your need to settle down. Butterflies signify creativity, romance, joy and spirituality. You may be experiencing a transformation into a new way of thinking. Or you may be undergoing a transitional phase. Consider the term "social butterfly" to describe someone who is popular and outgoing. Does this describe you? Perhaps you need to be more outgoing. Alternatively, the butterfly is symbolic of longevity.
To see two butterflies in your dream, represent a long and happy marriage.
To catch or kill a butterfly, suggests that you are being too superficial.
To dream that you are mounting a butterfly on frame, symbolizes sexual oppression.
To see a butterfly among flowers and green grasses, indicates prosperity and fair attainments.
To see them flying about, denotes news from absent friends by letter, or from some one who has seen them. To a young woman, a happy love, culminating in a life union.
Dreaming of a butterfly indicates your need to settle down. Butterflies also means creativity, romance, joy and spirituality. You may be undergoing a transformation into a new way of thinking. Dreaming of a beautiful colorful butterfly indicates the positive impression you will make at a future social gathering.
Some say that the butterfly represents the spirit or the essence of the individual: the soul. Butterflies are generally symbols of transformation because they go through a metamorphosis. They are beautiful, evasive, and, at times, inspiring. Your unconscious mind may be pointing out the most positive part of yourself or another.
If you dream that a butterfly is trapped in a room, you may be facing obstacles in waking life.
Butterfly Animal Symbolism
Overwhelmingly, cultural myth and lore honor the butterfly as a symbol of transformation because of its impressive process of metamorphosis.
From egg, to larvae (caterpillar), to pupa (the chrysalis or cocoon) and from the cocoon the butterfly emerges in her unfurling glory.
What a massive amount of transition this tiny creature undergoes. Consider for a moment the kind of energy this expends. I daresay if a human were to go through this kind of change we’d freak out!
Imagine the whole of your life changing to such an extreme you are unrecognizable at the end of the transformation. Mind you, this change takes place in a short span of about a month too (that’s how long the butterfly life cycle is).
Herein lies the deepest symbolic lesson of the butterfly. She asks us to accept the changes in our lives as casually as she does. The butterfly unquestioningly embraces the chances of her environment and her body.
This unwavering acceptance of her metamorphosis is also symbolic of faith. Here the butterfly beckons us to keep our faith as we undergo transitions in our lives. She understands that our toiling, fretting and anger are useless against the turning tides of nature – she asks us to recognize the same.
A quick-list of Butterfly animal symbolism:
Resurrection
Transition
Celebration
Lightness
Time
Soul
Interestingly, in many cultures the butterfly is associated with the soul – further linking our animal symbolism of faith with the butterfly.
In Greek myth, Psyche (which literally translates to mean “soul”) is represented in the form of a butterfly. Befittingly, Psyche is forever linked with love as she and Eros (the Greek god of love, also known in Roman myth as Cupid) shared an endlessly passionate bond together – both hopelessly in love with the other.
Greece doesn’t corner the market on associating the butterfly with the soul. Here are a few other ancient cultures that associated this elegant creature with the soul:
Asian (central)
Mexican – Aztec
New Zealand
Zaire
Even Christianity considers the butterfly a soulful symbol. To wit, the butterfly is depicted on ancient Christian tombs, as Christ has been illustrated holding a butterfly in Christian art.
It’s connection with the soul is rather fitting. We are all on a long journey of the soul. On this journey we encounter endless turns, shifts, and conditions that cause us to morph into ever-finer beings. At our soul-journey’s end we are inevitably changed – not at all the same as when we started on the path.
To take this analogy a step further, we can look again to the grace and eloquence of the butterfly and realize that our journey is our only guarantee. Our responsibility to make our way in faith, accept the change that comes, and emerge from our transitions as brilliantly as the butterfly.
The butterfly symbolizes intuitive transformation and consciousness. It teaches us to make changes to our lives, create new conditions, and make dreams come true. Every new idea and every step towards enlightenment reflects the development of the butterfly. The egg of a butterfly signals the birth of a life or new idea. The larvae stage represents lifes' learning and experiences. The cocoon represents the breaking free of misconceptions and beliefs for expansion. Finally, the hatching of the butterfly symbolizes the beginning of consciousness and new reality. The Butterfly reminds you that you are continually in a state of transformation and all is well.
The butterfly represents transformation and the ability to accept change.
Major transformations and transmutations taking place, outcome is different than expected. Symbol of joy, color, gentleness, lightness, and change in life. Awakens us to dance on the winds of life, teaches that growth doesn't have to be painful, allows us to discover the important issues in life for conscious transformation. Can you discern what is important right now? Don't sweat the small stuff, be joyful and thankful for your blessings.
Because of its black colour, the crow is associated with the idea of
beginning (as expressed in such symbols as the maternal night, primigenial darkness, the fertilizing earth). Because it is also associated with the atmosphere, it is
a symbol for creative, demiurgic power and for spiritual strength. Because of its
flight, it is considered a messenger. And, in sum, the crow has been invested by
many primitive peoples with far-reaching cosmic significance. Indeed, for the
Red Indians of North America it is the great civilizer and the creator of the visible
world. It has a similar meaning for the Celts and the Germanic tribes, as well as in
Siberia (35). In the classical cultures it no longer possesses such wide implications, but it does still retain certain mystic powers and in particular the ability to
foresee the future; hence its caw played a special part in rites of divination (8). In
Christian symbolism it is an allegory of solitude. Amongst the alchemists it
recovers some of the original characteristics ascribed to it by the primitives,
standing in particular for nigredo, or the initial state which is both the inherent
characteristic of prime matter and the condition produced by separating out the
Elements (putrefactio) (32). An interesting development of crow-symbolism is
the representation of it with three legs drawn within a solar disk. In this form it is the first of the Chinese imperial emblems, and represents Yang or the active life of
the Emperor. The three legs correspond to the sun-symbolism of the tripod: first
light or rising sun, zenith or midday sun, and sunset or setting sun. In Beaumont’s
view, the crow in itself signifies the isolation of him who lives on a superior plane
(5), this being the symbolism in general of all solitary birds.
To see a crow in your dream, represents death and the darker aspects of your character. The dream could also be pointing out your annoying habits. Alternatively, the crow may be conveying a message from your unconscious.
To dream of seeing a crow, betokens misfortune and grief. To hear crows cawing, you will be influenced by others to make a bad disposal of property. To a young man, it is indicative of his succumbing to the wiles of designing women.
This indicates a sorrowful funeral ceremony.
Seeing a crow in your dream, represents your annoying habits and the darker part of your character. The crow may serve as messengers from your unconscious.
In Native American Myth the Crow represents the secrets of the sacred law i.e. the laws of truth (intuition) and must not be confused with the commandments of humans or any religious systems. The crow combines past, present, and future, because it lives in a void without any perception of time. Since it also combines light and shadow, it perceives its outer and inner truths simultaneously. The crow guards the sacred laws that came directly from god and proclaimed once that everything that exists is born by woman. People who have the power of the crow must stand by their own realizations and constantly strive to live the truth that they discovered. The Crow signals that you have transcended mortal law, and to permit your own higher self to become your leader.
This animal indicates the need to find balance and to stay in the present and will bring to you the ability to release past beliefs.
Crow is a harbinger of change; spiritual, mental and emotional. Life, death, rebirth, transition magic, watchfulness, look for opportunities coming up, aids in ability to move spiritually and physically. They teach the power and balance of light/dark and spiritual/physical. He teaches to create and manifest things in our lives, all of life is waiting. Crow announces a newness on the horizon. Are you aware of the nuances in life? Are you listening to signs around you? Crow can give strength and show you how to maneuver in intuitions and insights.
To see a weasel bent on a marauding expedition in your dreams, warns you to beware of the friendships of former enemies, as they will devour you at an unseemly time.
If you destroy them, you will succeed in foiling deep schemes laid for your defeat.
To see a weasel in your dream, represents your lack of trust in others. It may also mean that you are acting or being deceitfully.
Seeing a weasel in your dream, represents your lack of trust in others. It may also mean that you are acting or being decietful.
This animal imparts the ability to see beneath the surface of things to what the actual intent and meaning is. The weasel also encourages you to develop your sense of inner hearing and to pay attention to your inner voice.
Sly and stealthy, shows dietary strengths/weaknesses, ability to get out of tight spots and situations, loners, can sniff out what is hidden and show how to determine things that are hidden, attacks verbally, observation skills and keen sense of discernment. Are you listening carefully? Time to dig deeper? Weasel teaches intelligence and the power of observation along with discretion to avoid trouble. Time to trust you instincts and pursue you goals.
To see a moose in your dream, represents long life and longevity. It may refer to the elders around you. Alternatively, a moose indicates that you can be both powerful and gentle. You exert your power only when it is necessary.
Seeing a moose in your dream, represents long life and longevity. It may refer to the elders around you. Alternatively, a moose may also indicate that you can be both powerful and gentle.
Magic of life and death, sacred energy is opened, camouflage self, conceal ideas/thoughts/actions until the appropriate time, life is awakening and moose will acknowledge the truths that are needed by your spirit. Aids in moving emotions for awareness, teaches strength, wisdom and patience. Moose gives you the ability to move swiftly but silently with wisdom. Are you being gentle with yourself? Do you need to more graceful and humble or speak up more? Moose will show you balance along with how strength can be found in gentleness and how to deal with situations.
To see a salmon in your dream, represents determination, strength, and wisdom. You are able to overcome adversity and achieve success. Alternatively, a salamander suggests that you are comfortable with expressing and dealing with your emotions. You are well balanced.
Dreaming of salmon, denotes that much good luck and pleasant duties will employ your time.
For a young woman to eat it, foretells that she will marry a cheerful man, with means to keep her comfortable.
Seeing a salmon in your dream, represents determination. You are able to overcome adversity and achieve success. Alternatively, it suggests that you are comfortable with expressing your emotions and dealing with them.
Transformation of the spirit, shows how to feel and sense others, will help clarify issues in life. Fish in general show how to swim the currents of life, use of intuition to navigate effectively, aids in attuning to the world of emotions, the un/subconscious and other-worlds, heightened senses including visions, dreams and related psychic abilities. Salmon teaches using intuitions and instincts and listening to the stillness. Do you currently feel stuck? Salmon demonstrates a time to rest and a time to move. Salmon can show how to swim into new adventures. She teaches survival, migration and movement, journeys, beginnings and endings. Which stage are you currently in? Salmon shows how to cope with physical transformation during this transition time. Salmon's lesson covers 1-3 months so have patience as you adapt. She will show how to integrate the changes with a perfect sense of timing as well as finding where you truly belong. Salmon will guide you in this journey of the mind, body and spirit.
The lion corresponds principally to gold or the ‘subterranean sun’, and
to the sun itself, and hence it is found as a symbol of sun-gods such as Mithras.
In Egypt, it used to be believed that the lion presided over the annual floods of the
Nile, because they coincided with the entry of the sun into the zodiacal sign of
Leo during the dog-days. The lion-skin is a solar attribute (8). The equation of the
sun and the lion, borne out by primitive and astrobiological cultures, persisted into the Middle Ages and found its way into Chris`tian symbolism (14), although
the significance of the lion is enriched by a variety of secondary symbolisms. In
alchemy, it corresponds to the ‘fixed’ element—to sulphur. When counter-balanced by three other animals, it represents earth (although elsewhere it has been
said that it stands for ‘philosophical fire’) (57), while gold is given the name of
‘lion of metals’; the red-coloured lion is more strictly applicable to the latter (56).
But, apart from these considerations, which lie more in the province of the theory
of correspondences than in symbology proper, the lion, the ‘king of beasts’,
symbolizes the earthly opponent of the eagle in the sky and the ‘natural lord and
master’—or the possessor of strength and of the masculine principle. As Frobenius
notes, the motif of the solar lion which tears out the throat of the lunar bull is
repeated interminably in Asiatic and African ornamentation (22). According to
Schneider, the lion pertains to the Element of earth and the winged lion to the
Element of fire. Both are symbolic of continual struggle, solar light, morning, regal
dignity and victory. As a symbol of the Evangelists, the lion came to be associated
with St. Mark in particular. Naturally, other meanings may be derived from the
location or the context in which the lion appears. The young lion corresponds to
the rising sun, the old or infirm lion to the setting sun. The lion victorious represents the exaltation of virility; the lion tamed carries, on the symbolic plane, the
obvious significance which it has in real life (50). For Jung, the lion, in its wild
state, is broadly speaking an index of latent passions; it may also take the form of
a sign indicating the danger of being devoured by the unconscious (32). But this
latter sense goes beyond lion-symbolism as such, being related to the general
symbolism of devouring (which in turn is related to the symbolism of time). The
wild lioness is a symbol of the Magna Mater (35).
To see a lion in your dream, symbolizes great strength, courage, aggression and power. You will overcome some of your emotional difficulties. As king of the jungle, the lion also represents dignity, royalty, leadership, pride and domination. You have much influence over others. You also need to exercise some restraint in your own personal and social life.
To dream that you are attacked by a lion, suggests that a force may be driving you to self-destruction. You need overcome these challenges and obstacles.
To see a black lion in your dream, represents a negative force. You are using your position of power for evil.
To dream of a lion, signifies that a great force is driving you.If you subdue the lion, you will be victorious in any engagement.
If it overpowers you, then you will be open to the successful attacks of enemies.
To see caged lions, denotes that your success depends upon your ability to cope with opposition.
To see a man controlling a lion in its cage, or out denotes success in business and great mental power. You will be favorably regarded by women.
To see young lions, denotes new enterprises, which will bring success if properly attended.
For a young woman to dream of young lions, denotes new and fascinating lovers.
For a woman to dream that she sees Daniel in the lions' den, signifies that by her intellectual qualifications and personal magnetism she will win fortune and lovers to her highest desire.
To hear the roar of a lion, signifies unexpected advancement and preferment with women.
To see a lion's head over you, showing his teeth by snarls, you are threatened with defeat in your upward rise to power.
To see a lion's skin, denotes a rise to fortune and happiness.
To ride one, denotes courage and persistency in surmounting difficulties.
To dream you are defending your children from a lion with a pen-knife, foretells enemies will threaten to overpower you, and will well nigh succeed if you allow any artfulness to persuade you for a moment from duty and business obligations.
This dream indicates greatness, elevation and honour. You will become very
important among men. You will become very powerful and happy.
Seeing a lion in your dream, symbolizes great strength, aggression and power. You will overcome your emotions and/or difficulties. As king of the jungle, the lion also represents royalty, leadership, pride and dominion. You have much influence over others. You may also need to exercise restraint in your own personal and social life. Dreaming that you are attacked by a lion indicates that you have many obstacles to overcome. You must resist the force that is driving you to self-destruction.
Lion Meanings and Thoughts on Lion Symbolism
The symbolic meaning of lions, as one might imagine, primarily deals with strength.
The fact that it is a nocturnal creature means that the lion is a symbol of authority and command over subconscious thought (as night is an ancient symbol of the subconscious - or dream states).
It’s interesting that the lion is considered by many ancient cultures to be a solar animal symbol, however it is primarily a nocturnal creature, conducting its hunting activity mostly at night. Further, the lioness is considered a lunar animal.
This serves as a symbolic message of balance and sound judgment. In that the lion shares the world of both night and day, the lion bears a message of prudence to us. In other words, the lion asks us to not overdo in certain areas of our lives. Rather, keep an even mind and an overall balance in our life activities.
Other than a symbol for strength, other symbolic attributes of the lion include:
Courage
Power
Royalty
Dignity
Authority
Dominion
Justice
Wisdom
Ferocity
In Egypt, the lion represented the ferocious heat of the sun and was seen in the likeness of Sekhmet who is the Egyptian goddess known as the Eye of Ra. She is the power that protects the good and annihilates the wicked.
In ancient Greece, lions were identified with Dionysus, Phoebus, Cybele, and Artemis because myth indicates lions drew the chariots for these gods and goddesses. Here, the symbolic meaning of lions revolved around protections and they were viewed as guardians of the dead as well as guardians of palaces, doorways, shrines and thrones. They were also ultimate protectors of hearth and home.
In Hinduism, the lion is an avatar (embodiment or personification) of Vishnu.
In Buddhism the Buddha sits upon the lion as a throne of consistency, strength and wisdom.
In alchemy, the symbolic meaning of lions is associated with the highly idealistic and prized attributes of gold.
The symbolic meaning of lions in England is shonw in heraldic art where it is a common emblem of English sovereigns because of these lion-like traits:
leadership
strength
royalty
courage
honor
As a zodiac symbol - those with the sign of Leo likely possess some lion's personality traits such as:
Intuition
Self-confidence
Fiery
Territorial
Controlling
Passionate
Generosity
Loyalty
Those born under the sun sign Leo are fiercely independent, confident and in control.
They are creative and influential forces and have the internal power to make positive (or negative) changes in their lives and the lives of others around them.
They are very loyal people, and will defend friend and family honor to the death. My friend Göran Jönsson has perfectly captured the strength and ferocity the Leo represents in his zodiac pendant shown left.
Lions as dream symbols indicate we may feel as though we are being preyed upon, or we are in a position to defend ourselves. Dreaming of lions may also be a sign of our need to get in touch with our emotions, and tame them if necessary.
In esoteric studies, the lion makes its appearance in the Tarot where it is illustrated in the Strength card of the Major Arcana.
When we observe the lion in nature, we detect an easy strength and a natural dignity. The lion is born powerful, and power comes naturally to it. There is no false bravado as the lion has no need of it.
When the lion comes to us it is a sign for us to step into our natural birthright of power. Each of us is born powerful and divine. The lion reminds us of this.
Other messages the lion shares with us:
Hold your head high – even in times of conflict – conduct yourself with dignity
Stand tall, remember your birthright of power
Perhaps it’s time to show your authority (not in a dominating way) but lead others with a loving heart
It may be time to defend something that is dear to your heart – defend it fiercely if you must.
Have courage, have faith.
As with all signs and symbols, the symbolic meaning of lions should be special and personal to each of you. This only provides you with a brief summary of the various symbolic meanings available. Ultimately it is you who determines your own unique and symbolic relationship with the lion.
The lion represents wisdom and power. It brings to you the abilities of heart-centered leadership.
Leadership, truth, nobility and power balance the playful and calm serenity of Lion. He will teach how to strengthen your spirit and resolve. A quiet demeanor is balanced with a fierceness especially when family is concerned. He shows that rest is needed before continuing. Are you misappropriating your time and energy? Listen to the actions of Lion for he will show if it is time to relax and destress your mind, body and spirit. Respect, grace, stealth, focus, knowledge - Lion medicine is about timing or your personal power. Increased community responsibilities and cooperation, cunningness, fearlessness and expert timing are lessons that Lion teaches. Lion aids in recognizing and understanding your own noble and regal attitudes. Are you taking on the characteristics of a male lion or a lioness?