Animals have played a part in human life since prehistoric times. Cave paintings show us how they hunted large mammals. Early indigenous people built massive effigies to worship them, believing they held special power. Here are 10 animal symbols and their meanings across cultures.
Elephant
Elephants are majestic creatures that hold special symbolism in Chinese and Hindu cultures. They are known for their wisdom, strength, and stability. Their massive size and incredible memory are qualities that contribute to their unique symbolism. In many Asian countries, elephants are also associated with good luck and wealth.
Wolf
A wolf represents strength, loyalty, and freedom. In some Native American cultures, the wolf symbolizes family and protection. In Norse mythology, it symbolizes chaos and destruction. Pay attention to the subtext in literature and movies the next time a wolf is mentioned; its presence often carries symbolic weight that deepens the narrative.
Lion
The Lion is often referred to as the “King of the Jungle.” The powerful carnivore symbolizes power, courage, and leadership—all you’d want in a good leader. In Ancient Egypt, the lion signified deities. European architecture incorporated lions to show bravery. This powerful creature will likely remain a symbol in many cultures.
Owl
This mysterious nocturnal bird has long fascinated humans, inspiring them to derive additional meaning from its appearance. Some Native American tribes associated owls with good and bad omens. In Greek mythology, the owl of Athena represents wisdom, knowledge, and strategic thinking. Some Mexican cultures see it as darkness, death, and witchcraft. People are divided.
Bear
Few things are more intense than staring straight into the eyes of a bear. These powerful, majestic creatures strike mixed associations among cultures. While they are associated with healing in some indigenous cultures, they’re viewed as symbols of ancestors in Finnish, Siberian, and Korean cultures. Maybe bears shouldn’t be so scary after all.
Deer
You see something move through the trees. You adjust your angle, trying to get a better view. Seeing a deer will bring you uncontrollable excitement. In some cultures, the deer symbolizes grace, gentleness, and transformation. In some folklore, they are associated with the supernatural. Whatever the cultural belief, spotting deer can be thrilling.
Fox
Seeing foxes is rare. They are known to be shy and elusive creatures. In some cultures, the fox represents cunning, cleverness, and trickery. For example, there’s a story in Aesop’s Fables about a fox swindling a crow out of some cheese. Foxes are extremely intelligent. In other cultures, they can symbolize versatility and adaptability.
Butterfly
You learn about butterflies in your elementary school science class. A caterpillar undergoes metamorphosis and changes into a butterfly. Fittingly, it symbolizes rebirth and transformation. This is probably the reason you see so many butterfly tattoos—they are sometimes used to initiate change. In Mexican culture, butterflies are often associated with the dead. It is believed that butterflies are ancestral souls.
Tiger
Tigers, not to be confused with lions, are powerful animals. They symbolize strength, power, and courage. While magnificent, a real-life encounter with one is certainly a symbol of danger. In China, they are often viewed as benevolent protectors, while in Buddhism they symbolize anger. These majestic hunters have a beautiful orange, black, and white fur pattern, adding to its intrigue.
Eagle
To Americans, the eagle is a symbol of our nation, conveying freedom, strength, and vision. They are predators with large talons that soar through the skies in search of fish. In some Native American cultures, eagles are believed to be messengers for the dead. Our early ancestors were captivated by Earth’s diverse creatures, and we attribute them with special meaning. Which animal was your favorite?
