Meaning of Animals

Meaning of Animals

Meaning of Animals
The Meaning of Animals plays an important role in the belief system of Native American Indians. Their beliefs are based on Animism which embodies the spiritual idea that all natural objects within the universe, have souls or spirits. Animists believe that souls or spirits exist, not only in humans, but also in animals, plants, animals, rocks and natural phenomena. The doctrine of animism is that everything is alive, and possesses an inherent virtue, power and wisdom.

In the ancient culture and traditions of Native Americans the meaning of animals are inextricably tied to the belief that animals, as spirit guides, walk through different stages of life with a person, teaching and guiding them, and in some instances protecting them.

Native American Meaning of Animals Chart
The meaning of animals and other creatures such as birds, insects and reptiles, are of great significance as they are believed to possess supernatural powers that can embody, attach and influence a person empowering them with the powerful traits, attributes and characteristics of the animal. The animals that are are regarded as spiritual guides appear in dreams or Vision Quests. The following chart describes the meanings of animals and other creatures providing information of the significance of each animal together with its meaning, attributes, characteristics and symbolism.

Meaning of Bear: The bear symbolizes courage, physical strength and leadership

Meaning of  Beaver: The beaver symbolizes resourcefulness determination and a strong-will

Meaning of Buffalo: The buffalo symbolizes the sacred, life, great strength, abundance and gratitude

Meaning of Coyote: The coyote symbolizes cunning, stealth and humor

Meaning of Deer: The deer symbolizes compassion, grace and survival

Meaning of Eagle: The eagle symbolizes the divine spirit, creation and freedom

Meaning of Elk: The elk symbolizes bravery, agility and independence

Meaning of Grizzly Bear: The grizzly bear symbolizes strength and ferocity

Meaning of Cougar: The cougar symbolizes power, leadership, humility and encourages responsibility for life

Native American Meaning of Animals Chart
The following chart describes the meanings of animals providing information of the significance of each of the animals together with its meaning, attributes, characteristics and symbolism.

Meaning of Horse: The horse symbolizes mobility, stamina, strength and power

Meanings of Turtle: The turtle symbolizes tenacity, good health and long life

Meanings of Wolf: The wolf symbolizes direction and leadership and embodies both protection and destruction

Meaning of Squirrel: The squirrel symbolizes planning and the home

Meaning of Porcupine: The porcupine symbolizes safety, companionship, and trust

🐾 Explore Our  Animal Collections! 

👉 Bear Collection

👉 Turtle Collection

👉 Eagle Collection

👉 Horse Collection

👉 Owl Collection

2 Comments

Frederick William Keyes

I would like to be able to copy and translate this into Japanese for my wife and daughter using ChatGTP app on my iPhone.

Or if you could use something similar and email it to me in Japanese, that would be wonderful.
I would like them to be able to choose the best animal for their spirit animal

Geraldine Obert

Thanks for sharing this information with us. I am always interested in finding out more about the American Indian culture. Thanks again.

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