Love, sex and animal symbols. Animal symbols in love sphere- what do they mean?

Animals have long symbolized various energies, as well as our animal emotions. Bears usually mean grouchiness, bull - stubbornness, and dog - loyalty. The elephant is a symbol of good memory, the fox is always a model of cunning for us. The lion symbolizes courage, and the mouse symbolizes timidity. These associations are universal and are the result of human observations of the surrounding nature.

Animals from prehistoric times acted as symbols of certain qualities. Cave paintings often depicted animals, and it is possible that drawing an animal surrounded by hunters was a form of sympathetic magic.

In religion, many gods are embodied in the form of animals or creatures with animal heads. An example of this is the Hindu god of wisdom Ganesh: he has the head of an elephant. In Christianity, the dove is used as a symbol of the Holy Spirit.

In the history of mankind, animals are often endowed with human traits. We say: wise as an owl; cunning as a fox; devoted like a dog. Mythical animals such as the dragon, the sphinx or the unicorn are full of symbolism. In Greek mythology, the centaur has the head of a man and the body of a horse. The centaur is associated with recklessness, drunkenness, violence and symbolizes the animal nature in man. Mermaids are often found in marine folklore. In a deck of Tarot cards, a card with a wheel of fate depicts a strange creature with a human body and an animal head. This animal could mean that humanity is still developing and even just emerging. “When I was first introduced to Tarot cards, I was told that the animal was Anubis, the Egyptian god of graves and embalming, who weighed the hearts of the dead. It had the body of a man and the head of a jackal. The snake to the left of the wheel is Set, brother of Osiris and the Egyptian god of death. Therefore, Set is a sign of death, and Anubis is a sign of rebirth.

The unicorn symbolizes virgin purity, because its horn - a phallic symbol - is connected to the forehead - the seat of the mind and sublimates sexual potency into more worthy spheres. The mother of Jesus, Mary, is often depicted with a unicorn on her knees, which means immaculate conception. Other animals symbolizing purity are the bee, dove, elephant, phoenix, and salamander.

There are animals that symbolize lust. These are donkey, bear, cat, goat, horse, leopard, monkey, pig and rabbit. In Christian art, snakes feeding on a woman's chest are sometimes symbols of vice and licentiousness.

In the West, children are usually told that a stork brought them. This myth was born in Ancient Greece, where the stork was the sacred bird of Hera - the goddess of marriage, the patroness of women and children. Because storks were thought to be good parents, they gradually became associated with Hera. The stork has also been noted to take care of its elderly parents.

Butterfly

In Japan, a butterfly symbolizes femininity, two butterflies - happy marriage. Throughout the world, the butterfly is a symbol of the immortal soul: a moth larva develops from an egg and, ultimately, a butterfly.

Ram

The ram symbolizes Aries, the first sign of the zodiac. He is the embodiment of fertility, spring and new growth, and also symbolizes lust and masculinity. The ram's horns serve as a phallic symbol.

Hippopotamus (hippopotamus)

In ancient Egypt, the hippopotamus was considered the embodiment of brutality, cruelty and evil, since a disturbed animal can attack a person, trample a bull or a horse. The hippopotamus is especially ferocious in protecting its only cub. Surprisingly, the hippopotamus was considered the protector of women and it symbolized pregnancy. Figurines of goddesses in the form of a pregnant female hippopotamus were very often placed in houses where a woman aspired to become pregnant.

Squirrel

It is considered a symbol of fertility in Japan. In the West, this symbolism did not take root, since the squirrel is considered a harmful rodent here. In the Middle Ages, it was a symbol of the devil himself because of its bright red color and extraordinary mobility.

Beaver

The beaver symbolizes sexual activity. Indeed, the male beaver's sex drive is so strong that, according to Chinese folklore, a beaver can make love to a tree if he can't find a mate. Therefore, the powder made from the beaver's penis is considered a strong aphrodisiac.

Bull

The bull is a powerful symbol of male potency, fertility, fertility and protection. In the past, the wealth of a family was determined by the number of livestock it owned; in particular, bulls signified wealth, power, and sexual power. In the stock market, bulls are always bullish.

Sparrow

In China, sparrow meat is believed to have aphrodisial properties, as the sparrow symbolizes the penis. Similar associations arose in the West. In ancient Greece, the sparrow was associated with the goddess Aphrodite. In Western art, a woman holding a sparrow personifies a lustful and dissolute person.

Pigeon

The dove symbolizes love, purity, peace and hope. Today, the dove is a symbol of peace, mainly due to the many positive references to the dove in the Bible. The dove returned to Noah with an olive branch, a sign of peace. After Jesus was baptized, John the Baptist "saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove."

Christians also associated the dove with holiness and purity, which clearly contradicted early symbolism. So, on the ruins of Pompeii, images of winged phalluses and doves were found adjacent to each other. The cooing of pigeons, more like a groan, reminded people of both sex and childbearing.

According to ancient pagan custom, a lover will love you forever if you hide the tongue of a dove in his bedroom. A pair of doves symbolizes a long harmonious marriage.

goose

The Chinese and Celts considered the goose a symbol of masculinity. The term "gander" refers to the sexual symbolism of this animal, which has its origins in ancient Greece and is associated with Priapus. In most countries Central Asia"goose" is a loving address of men to their wives. In China, the goose is called the "heavenly bird", which symbolizes love, devotion, truthfulness and inspiration.

Unicorn

The unicorn is a mythical animal that has been an important symbol for 2000 years. In the 5th century BC e. Ctesias, a Greek historian and physician, mentioned the wound-healing properties of the unicorn horn.

Early Christians considered the unicorn a symbol of feminine purity, since, according to ancient legend, only a virgin, pure in soul and thoughts, can catch a unicorn.

The unicorn's horn has a clear phallic association and became a symbol of spiritual insight, which explained the appearance of Jesus in the womb of the Virgin Mary. However, the location of the horn on the forehead of the animal shows that the power of the mind can suppress the thirst for sexual pleasure.

Kingfisher

In China, the graceful regal kingfisher is a symbol of domestic harmony and a happy marriage, probably because these birds often fly in pairs. The kingfisher also symbolizes foresight, calmness and clarity of mind.

Snake

The snake is considered the most ancient animal symbol. Prehistoric rock art often depicts snakes, probably as a symbol of fertility. Snakes remind people of the penis and the umbilical cord at the same time, which carries an excess of sexual symbolism. It was the snake that seduced Eve and forced her to take the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden, as a result of which the snake came to be considered a symbol of sexual passion.

Kangaroo

The kangaroo carries its cub in a bag, so this animal symbolizes harmony hearth, stability and a happy family life.

Goat

Goats have always been associated with lust and male power. Goats are also a symbol of fertility and nutrition; after all, it was the goat that fed Greek god Zeus. Many fertility cults, including the Mendazian cult in Egypt, used these animals. Herodotus wrote that the followers of this cult led a dissolute lifestyle.

Cow

The cow is a symbol of motherhood. Both the cow and the bull are considered symbols of fertility. In ancient civilizations, a cow meant mother earth, some even drew a parallel between the curved horns of a cow and the moon, and her milk was considered the Milky Way. Nut, the Egyptian goddess of the sky, was sometimes depicted as a cow with stars on her belly, and her four legs symbolized the four quarters of the earth. The cow is a sacred animal in India. In Vedic literature, the cow symbolizes both the earth and the sky, and her milk is the blessed, life-giving rain.

Cat

In ancient Egypt, cats were considered sacred animals. Goddess Bastet - the goddess of the Moon, associated with pleasure, fertility and protection, had the head of a cat. However, throughout the ages, cats have had an ambivalent reputation. For example, Buddhists believe that cats did not mourn for the death of the Buddha. In the Middle Ages in Europe, the cat was considered the embodiment of demonic forces.

The unexpected appearance of a cat indicates sexual problems that should be identified and treated.

Rabbit

The rabbit is associated with the moon, the prehistoric state of the world, and fertility. Since rabbits reproduce at a tremendous rate, they are used in attempts to cure impotence or infertility through sympathetic magic.

The Easter Bunny holds an egg in its paws, another common symbol of fertility.

Partridge

This bird symbolizes beauty, love and fertility. She was associated with Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. According to popular belief, the meat of this animal is an aphrodisiac.

Martin

The arrival of swallows means the beginning of spring. Since spring is the rebirth and new life of nature, the swallow symbolizes the birth of a child. The bird is also associated with domesticity, with a happy family life.

Swan

The swan symbolizes beauty, love, passion and their gradual withering. Wagner's opera Lohengrin tells the story of the knight of the swans; Tchaikovsky's ballet "Swan Lake" tells about the beauty and obvious femininity of a swan. In Greek mythology, Zeus turns into a swan to seduce Leda.

Horse

The horse has always been considered a symbol of strength, endurance, endurance, intelligence and devotion. The horse is also a male symbol of sexual passion and potency.

Frog

The frog is an ambiguous animal. Since her native element is water, she is considered a symbol of rebirth, change, renewal and earthly joys. As such, it is associated with eroticism, the desire for pleasure, and fertility.

Deer

The male deer symbolizes passion, lust for life and male power. When deer were brought to Australia, they quickly became important symbols for the local Aborigines, who believe that seeing a deer in a dream is a sign unconditional love and living in harmony with all living beings.

Eagle

The eagle has always been considered a powerful, even regal symbol. The ancient Greeks took this bird as a symbol of the spirit, so it is the eagle that comes to Zeus. In Sumerian and Assyrian mythology, the eagle symbolizes fertility.

Pelican

The pelican is a symbol of parental love. Greek legend tells how pelicans killed their ugly children and then brought them back to life three days later using the blood from their own wounds.

Rooster

The bird symbolizes male sexuality and fertility. Gradually, this meaning turned out to be distorted, and today this proud, beautiful bird is only a symbol of rude male behavior (macho type).

Bee

The bee symbolizes diligence, prosperity and diligence, as well as virginity, purity and holiness. These associations arise from the fact that people considered bees to breed asexually. In ancient Egypt, the bee was called the “giver of life,” and it symbolized birth, death, rebirth, and a successful, happy, productive life. In ancient Greece, Demeter was hailed as the queen of the bees. Bees were associated with Cupid, who used them to sting people who met their love.

A fish

Fish has always been considered a symbol of fertility and sexual satisfaction for three main reasons. Water is a symbol of fertility. Plutarch referred to the ancient Egyptians, who took the fish for a phallic symbol. In addition, the fish lays a large amount of caviar. In China, two fish symbolize marriage and fertility. The Celts have a legend about Thun MacCeiril, who had several incarnations, and in one of them he was a salmon. In this incarnation, he impregnated an Irish queen who ate a salmon when it was caught.

Pig

The pig has a large number of symbolic meanings. The pig is primarily a symbol of gluttony, selfishness and stubbornness. However, it also symbolizes fertility, fertility, motherhood and happiness. In China, the pig is also a symbol of fertility and courage.

Elephant

The elephant is a symbol of strength, royal dignity, patience, wisdom and long memory. It also symbolizes a strong sexual attraction and a successful, passionate marriage.

Dog

The usual definition of a dog is "man's best friend". This means that she serves as a male symbol of fidelity, love, firmness and protection.

Nightingale

Thanks to its sweet, but such a sad song, the nightingale symbolizes the agony and delight of love. According to Greek legend, Philomena ordered her tongue to be cut so as not to let it slip that her half-brother Tereus had raped her. Therefore, the nightingale is also associated with pain and suffering.

Magpie

In China, the magpie symbolizes sexual compatibility and a successful marriage. Probably, this symbolism is connected with the custom of the ancient Greeks to break the mirror in half when the husband and wife are forced to be separated for some time. Each partner had half. According to legend, if one of them betrays his partner, his half of the mirror will turn into a magpie and fly away to another partner to tell about what happened.

Oyster

The oyster symbolizes female sexuality and fertility. The fact is that she lives in water (fertility), and her shape resembles a vulva.

Duck

In Asia, the duck, especially the Beijing duck, symbolizes a happy marriage, constancy and fidelity. A pair of ducks is a commonly accepted symbol of marriage and can be found in the bridal suite in Japan and Kiai.

Turtle

The turtle is especially revered in China, as the design on its shell is the basis of feng shui and Chinese numerology. People believed that the turtle could perceive the world with the power of thought alone. The turtle is a symbol of longevity, patience and fertility. In China, she is a female symbol, but in some African countries she was associated with a man due to the fact that the protruding head and neck resemble a penis in shape.

It is probably not a secret for anyone that this has been the custom since ancient times - each animal has its own meaning, each animal means something. Not without reason, even in literary works (let us recall at least the fables of Ivan Andreevich Krylov), the fox is cunning, the crow is stupid, the wolf is cowardly, and so on. Why are they given these characteristics? And in general, what is the symbolism of which animals?

Where do legs grow from?

Why did animals suddenly mean something? Where did all these allegories come from? The thing is that from ancient times the life of man (including the primitive) in all its manifestations was closely connected with the animal world, one might even say - inextricably linked. So it was before, so it is now. It is no coincidence that we often call animals "our smaller brothers" - they are indeed ubiquitous in human life: in signs, legends, fairy tales, myths, religious beliefs, and so on. Even in the sky - and then the animals! The word "zodiac", by the way, is translated from ancient Greek as "animal".

In certain nations, certain animals are considered sacred (more on this will be discussed later). In general, it is clear that the lives of animals and people are as closely intertwined as one can imagine. Therefore, it is not surprising that it was the animals that began to personify for people those or other qualities that they wanted or did not want to be endowed with; began to personify moral and spiritual phenomena. It is no coincidence that in myths the gods necessarily had symbols of animals - this means that each god possessed or desired to possess specifically the quality that was inherent in the animal he had chosen. It is noteworthy that often one animal could have far more than one meaning: for example, everyone knows the fox as a savvy cunning, but in some places wisdom is also attributed to it (and, surprisingly, on the contrary, stupidity). Next, we will talk in more detail about the symbolism of animals.

A fox

Since she has already been mentioned twice, it’s worth starting, perhaps, with her. So, the fox, as mentioned above, usually appears as a very dexterous, sly person, possessing a fair amount of cunning, often coupled with deceit, outstanding patience, incredible selfishness and terrible hypocrisy. With all this, she is also quite smart, and often she is also credited with such characteristics as vindictiveness and cowardice / caution. Surely everyone at least once in their life heard someone called a fox: "Well, you are a fox!" This can be said both in the meaning, for example, "well, you are a sly one," and "well, you are a sucker."

The concept of falsity is often associated with a fox, in addition, in some nations, a fox is a sorceress, a sorceress. So, for example, among the Chinese, in fairy tales, a fox, having lived to be a hundred years old, turns into a sorcerer, and having crossed the thousand-year mark, generally goes to heaven and becomes a heavenly fox. In many legends of the same Chinese, Siberians, North Americans, a red-haired cheat becomes a woman on a full moon, which also indicates her magical abilities, but only of an evil, demonic nature (good sorcerers and wizards do not change their appearance, since they have no need to hide their true appearance). Related to this is the meaning of the fox as the embodiment of the soul of the deceased (developed in China). The Chinese, like the Japanese, generally endowed her with a huge variety of qualities - if the Europeans declared her only cunning and insidious, then for the above peoples she also became a symbol of eroticism and seduction. But in fairness, it is worth noting that there are exceptions to the usual perception of the fox as an evil and insidious cunning. So, among the Indians of California, the silver fox is a national hero, and among the Japanese, the white fox is generally a sacred animal of the rice god Inari.

horse

We figured out the fox, but what does the horse (or horse) symbolize? It has long been considered, along with the dog, one of the best and most faithful friends of man, his devoted assistant. It has infinitely many meanings: it is courage, and grace, and endurance, and intelligence, and wisdom, and strength, and fertility, and nobility. The horse is both a symbol of life and death. All the gods had horses harnessed to their chariots, symbolizing light, life, they are the messengers of the gods. But at the same time, in many traditions, horses are funeral animals, on which the souls of the dead go to the afterlife. For example, interesting tradition existed among the Slavs: if a deceased person had a horse, they killed him and buried him together with the owner, so that the soul of the latter would fly on a horse to the kingdom of the dead. Equally important is the color of the horse - black means death, white - life. However, sometimes White horse denotes just the same otherworldly forces: for example, on Russian icons, a white horse is a symbol of incorporeal beings.

Two more interesting meanings of the horse are passion and the ability to predict. The latter was often played up in fairy tales and legends, for example, with the Brothers Grimm. And in ancient Greece, the image of a horse was taken by Poseidon - the god of the sea, the ruler of earthquakes and springs.

The horse is worshiped by many Indian tribes. This has been going on since the time of the famous Spanish conqueror Cortes. He left his wounded horse to the Indians to go out; the Indians promised to take care of the animal, but they had never met horses before, and therefore did not know how to care for them, and fed Cortez's horse with meat. Of course, the horse died, and the frightened Indians made a stone copy of it, worshiping which they begged for forgiveness.

Here are a few more meanings of this animal: a brimmed horse symbolizes power, a winged horse - poetry, and loaded like a donkey - a human burden and the frailty of our being.

Owl

What does the owl symbolize? The first thing that comes to mind is wisdom. It is with this epithet that she is most often mentioned - a wise owl. It is no coincidence that various intellectual clubs and circles often choose the image of this bird - omniscient and erudite - as an emblem, logo. The owl is a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, as it has been considered from time immemorial. In mythology, she was a symbol of the goddess Athena - a wise warrior. In addition to wisdom, a prophetic gift is also attributed to the bird - often it becomes a harbinger of certain events. This is a very sensitive and understanding bird, prone to the same bouts of melancholy. BUT appearance owls, the habit of staring without blinking, piercing yellow eyes, no less piercing guttural cry and complete noiselessness led to the fact that the owl began to be associated with death. So, answering the question of what the owl symbolizes, you can, in addition to the above, add: darkness, darkness, death. A similar meaning, as well as the meaning of loneliness, despondency, despair, is typical for countries such as Japan, China, India, North America, Ancient Egypt.

In many nationalities, an owl is not just a prophet, but a harbinger of misfortune, misfortune, perhaps even death, a devilish bird that is tamed by witches and sorcerers (by the way, they themselves are able to take on an owl's appearance). In connection with this meaning, it is interesting to recall a series of books about Harry Potter by the British writer J. K. Rowling, which largely relied on various beliefs and rituals: it is the owls in the magical world of Harry Potter that are kind of postmen, bringing letters to magicians as if they had good content. (for example, about enrolling in the school "Hogwarts"), and with not very good (for example, about expulsion from it). It is this representative of the fauna that is a favorite pet and helper for magicians, but it cannot be said that only evil sorcerers and sorceresses own it: for example, the owl of the main character - a positive character - is herself very positive.

Returning to the symbolism of animals, we must also add that in Christianity, an owl, in addition to all of the above, also meant solitude, loneliness. Often she was mentioned in the same row with the hermits, and with the praying hermits. And the meanings of a widow, an old maid and a keeper of underground treasures were also attributed to the owl. Thus, it cannot be categorically said that the owl is a symbol of wisdom and knowledge. This image has many others. interesting values.

Turtle

Let's talk now about what the turtle symbolizes. Like the owl, it is a symbol of wisdom. And also - strength, eternity and inviolability (it's time to remember the ancient belief in a flat earth, which is held on its back by a turtle). This animal is associated in many nations with immortality and the very creation of the world. What the turtle also symbolizes is fertility and procreation. In China, for example, she is a soothsayer, a spiritually gifted being (there are four of them - another dragon, qilin and phoenix), a long-liver (the latter value is also characteristic of Japan). Turtle is a symbol of strength, endurance, patience, hard work and perseverance. No wonder it was chosen as an emblem by many warriors and rulers. different peoples- she symbolized their slowness, but self-confidence.

Christians endowed the turtle with the meaning of decency and fidelity: it denoted a woman living in marriage, like a turtle in its shell. And among the African peoples, the animal, on the contrary, was a male symbol - it denoted male fertility (the Africans identified this representative of the reptile order with the male genital organ). And the turtle symbolizes invulnerability and security - the one in the shell is not so easy to get to!

Cow

Many are interested in why the cow is a sacred animal in India. This question will certainly be answered a little later, but for now we’ll just talk about the meaning of this animal. In all countries of the world, among all peoples, the cow is primarily a symbol of motherhood (because it gives milk), as well as fertility and prosperity.

In mythology, the cow symbolizes the womb of Mother Earth, where everything that exists on it is nurtured. The symbolism of the animal among the Egyptians is vital warmth, among the Slavs - the heavenly mother, giving milk to the earth with her milk. Also, the cow means patience and endurance.

Eagle

It is not difficult to guess what the eagle, one of the most ancient symbols, symbolizes. Victory, strength and height of spirit, courage and power, freedom and power - these are far from all of the meanings that this animal has. By the way, the meaning of the double-headed eagle is also connected with power - it is a symbol of strengthening power. In addition, the eagle is considered a royal bird, symbolizing a noble origin.

The ancient Greeks identified him with the Sun, because he soars in the sky as high and free as this luminary. It was believed, in addition, that only an eagle was able to fly to the sun, that only he was able to look at the sun without blinking. And it is this bird that flies among thunder and lightning, which marks true courage and fearlessness. Among Christians, in addition to all of the above, the eagle is compared with Christ - its flight is a symbol of Christ's Resurrection, the bird is considered the messenger of heaven.

Bear

It has long been customary that clumsy people are called by the name of a clubfoot inhabitant of the forest. "What a bear!" - we say, if someone stomped loudly, broke a cup or did not fit into the turn. The meaning of clumsiness is the first thing that comes to mind when mentioning this animal. However, what the bear symbolizes, besides this, is good nature. In many fairy tales, legends, beliefs of different nations, he appears as a good-natured bumpkin, a lover of sleeping, eating raspberries and sucking his paw. However, there are enough contradictions in the image of a bear - it is often associated with anger, rage, and mortal danger.

Another meaning of the bear is courage, strength. In addition, Potapych symbolizes the beginning of a new life - after all, in the spring they come out of hibernation and seem to begin to live in a new way. change for the good, but also endurance and patience. For the Indians of America, the bear is a symbol of supernatural strength, for the Chinese - courage, for the Japanese - goodwill. In Russia, the brown bear is a national symbol, and for many of our Slavic ancestors, it was a totem animal.

a lion

Everyone knows: the lion - It is the royal (and in general the highest) power, nobility, aristocracy that this animal marks. The lion is a symbol of courage, fearlessness, courage. It signifies honor, power, greatness. But the lioness symbolizes motherhood and endless love. In many cultures, she is revered as a mother goddess. And Buddhists believe that the Buddha used a lion as one of the guises. The features of this animal were often used in the image of other, mythical characters to endow them with the qualities inherent in a lion (for example, sphinxes or chimeras).

In the Middle Ages, people endowed the king of beasts with the ability to sleep with their eyes open, which is why the lion is a symbol of the watchful eye, the vigilant eternal guardian. Like the bear, this is a controversial figure - on the one hand, Christians saw in him the personification of God's Son, on the other hand, devilish forces, since the devil wants to absorb human virtue with the same force that the lion seeks to catch prey.

Pigeon

What the dove symbolizes, probably everyone knows. and kindness, love, friendship, sincerity - this is what this seemingly simple bird carries in itself. The common expression "pigeon fidelity" also appeared for a reason - a pair of doves denotes marital fidelity and eternal love. There are many stories, legends, stories and even songs about the dove as a symbol of peace (let us recall at least the Scorpions and their White Dove - "White Dove").

Among Christians, among other things, the dove also denotes the Holy Spirit. This bird, in principle, symbolizes an unbreakable connection with the soul, as well as the transition from one state to another. The dove is the mediator between the earth and the sky, it is he who is the messenger of the gods. In the countries of the East, for a long time, the killing of pigeons was considered the highest sin.

Wolf

Cowardly and narrow-minded are the first epithets that pop up in the head if necessary to reveal the meaning of the wolf. In almost all fairy tales, the wolf appears just like that, and also a loser and a fool, with whom something always happens (you don’t need to go far for an example - the wonderful Soviet cartoon "Well, wait a minute!" is his model).

However, there are other symbols of the animal. For example, caution, vigilance - this is exactly the meaning that is put into the image of a wolf when it is used on coats of arms. Another wolf is a symbol of protection and reliability ("Mowgli"), but also deceit, malice and rage. For many peoples, the wolf is the progenitor, and in some myths it is he who accompanies souls to another world. The Romans revered the wolf as a sacred animal to Mars; for them, as for the ancient Greeks, it signified victory and valor. But Christians perceived this animal as a devil encroaching on the souls of believers. They attributed to him the meanings of cruelty and evil.

Hare

If we are already talking about the wolf, how not to say a few words about the hare and what it symbolizes? If an eagle, for example, is compared with the sun, then a hare, on the contrary, is identified with the moon: ancient people distinguished jumping hares in spots on the moon. Or rabbits, which, in general, does not matter. The symbol of the hare is fertility, dexterity, Magic power, as well as excessive self-confidence and bragging.

Among the ancient Romans and Greeks, the scythe was considered the animal of Aphrodite / Venus, Eros / Cupid and Hermes / Mercury, who used it as a messenger. And among many peoples of the world, hares, known for their frequent reproduction, denote the female process of reproduction (for example, among the Chinese, Egyptians, Greeks, Celts, Indians, and so on). But among the Jews, the hare / rabbit symbolizes impiety and lust, perhaps this is partly why in Christianity the meaning of the hare is lust. However, thanks to the ability of the animal to jump quickly, straying and covering its tracks, Christians also identify it with a believer, restless and seeking salvation in God.

Which in which countries

It's no secret that some peoples especially revere some specific animals. But which ones and why?

The Egyptians, for example, especially revere cats - since antiquity. In ancient times, it was possible to lose one's life by accidentally or intentionally killing a cat, and inflicting damage on it, one could easily suffer oneself. All sorts of honors were given to cats, since, firstly, they exterminated rodents, and secondly, they were a symbol of the goddess Bast - a woman with a cat's head.

Let's return to the question of why the cow is a sacred animal in India. The fact is that the Hindus consider it a symbol of the planet, giving food and life in general. That is why this animal cannot be eaten or killed, and it should be honored no less than its own mother. And among the Japanese, in Nara Prefecture, deer are revered more than other animals - according to an old legend, it was on the back of this noble animal that Buddha arrived at his temple located here. What other animals are sacred in which countries? Sheep are in Madagascar. Locals believe that the souls of dead ancestors settle in these cute bleating artiodactyls. Therefore, it is impossible to eat a sheep on this island. But the Thais worship elephants. These animals have a special symbolism in this country - Thais believe that elephants are endowed with a magical gift. In addition, it is a symbol of peace and great strength.

Of course, this is only a small fraction of the animals and their meanings. However, you can learn a lot of new and interesting things about these representatives of the fauna.

Many are associated with storks. popular beliefs. And the most common of them says that this bird brings a baby into the house. Even postcards with congratulations about newborns often draw a stork. So if you dream of replenishment in the family, decorate the house with figurines of this bird. Would it help?

Butterfly - a symbol of joy and optimism

Probably, everyone is familiar with the expressions “flutter like a butterfly” or “butterflies fly in the stomach”, meaning that a person is happy and joyful at that moment. Do you dream of always being in this state? Buy figurines of butterflies at home, when you look at them, you will experience only positive emotions.

The dove is a symbol of peace

The dove is found in many myths, legends and historical facts. So, Aphrodite was born from a pigeon egg, Tsar Alexander the Great learned from a dove the way to the priests whom he had been looking for for a long time, and the Slavs believed that the human soul turns into this bird after death. Currently, the tradition of releasing white doves into the sky at weddings or other significant holidays is known. And figurines of these birds are often given to newlyweds as a symbol of peace and purity of love.

The snake is a symbol of female beauty and wisdom.

The snake is the most complex totemic animal. And all because it has two opposite meanings. Some consider the snake a symbol of lies and betrayal, using the expression "tongue like a snake", others are sure that it personifies beauty and wisdom. Confirmation of the last fact is a compliment to a woman in the East: “You look like a real snake!” Let's look at the world from the good side and present the snake in a positive light.

The cat is a symbol of harmony in the house

Since ancient times, the cat has been associated with harmony and good energy in the house. Can't get a live in the apartment? Buy a figurine!

Rabbit (hare) - a symbol of fertility and good luck

In the West, the hare is associated with the Easter holiday, and in the East, this animal personifies the feminine principle of yin and is associated with a sign of good luck (when you accidentally see a rabbit, get ready for the best). In our country, we often meet a hare in all kinds of fairy tales. In general, a figurine with him in the house is needed!

Swallow - fortunately, a new turn in life, travel

The swallow, which flies to us from warm countries, certainly reminds us of spring and happiness. And about the imminent vacation at sea. Remember how Hans Christian Andersen's Thumbelina asked this bird to take her with her? And the swallow, of course, complied with the request of the heroine.

Horse (horse) - a symbol of strength, intelligence and success

If things don't go well at work, your strength has left you and you can't decide on your goals, get a horse figurine! At one glance at it, your doubts, as Feng Shui experts assure, will dissipate. In addition, it is an incredibly powerful and able-bodied animal.

Frog (toad) - to wealth

Don't like frogs? But in vain. In the East, this animal is considered the most powerful symbol of protection, and also provides its owner with wealth and prosperity. Perhaps the whole point is in the beautiful story that once the Buddha, having learned that the toad is vengeful and harmful, conquered it and called on it to help people by spitting out cash coins.

Bear - to change in life

In Russian tradition, the bear is the king of beasts. And his image is associated with male energy and strength. Especially at the moment when he wakes up after a long sleep. So if you do not know what to do in this or that situation, or the soul requires drastic changes, look at the figurine of this animal and imagine how you wake up after a long sleep.

Spider - a symbol of creativity and wealth

Since ancient times, the spider has been considered the keeper of the hearth and intercessor from evil forces. Of course, it was impossible to kill him! Moreover, a belief is associated with this insect - if you see a red spider, expect good news and ... a monetary reward. In addition, in connection with the myth that the spider taught people the art of weaving, this insect is considered a symbol of creativity.

Elephant - a symbol of nobility and good luck

Elephants are considered the most noble and intelligent animals. And according to the teachings of Feng Shui, figurines with this animal should be in every home and office, as a symbol of nobility and good luck. After all, every day we are faced with a choice that can radically change our lives, and sometimes the lives of those around us. And accept correct solution helps... elephant! The main thing is that his trunk is pointing up.

The dog is a symbol of friendship

No wonder the dog is called man's best friend. Perhaps no other animal can boast of such devotion to the owner. So if you want to surround yourself with faithful and understanding people, buy a figurine of this animal for your home.

The tiger is a symbol of energy and strength

In the East, the tiger is the king of earthly animals, the lord of all land-dwelling animals. And almost everywhere this animal is personified with masculine yang, an endless energy and force that is always directed to the good.

Duck - a symbol of family happiness, pure love and fidelity

Duck figurines are usually given to lovers, newlyweds or single people who dream of true love. And this is no coincidence. These birds may well become an example for all of us. Firstly, they always fly in pairs, and secondly, as the Chinese believe, they choose a partner for themselves once and for life and even die if they have to part with him.

What animals are symbols of countries, you will learn from this article.

Animals symbols of countries

Almost every state has its own symbol in the form of an animal. This is either a totem, or those animals that live in a certain country and personify the spirit of the state. Let's look at examples of the most common state symbols.

What animal is the symbol of France?

The French are very proud of their symbol - rooster. Why a rooster? But because the inhabitants of France are descendants of the Gauls. And the word "Gauls" in Latin means rooster.

What animal is the symbol of China?

Today panda represents the country of the Rising Sun - China. Previously, this beautiful animal inhabited all of East Asia, but as a result of man's barbaric attitude to nature, the number and habitat of pandas have significantly decreased. They are listed in the Red Book. You can meet them only in some areas of Tibet and Sichuan. China has approved government programs to increase and conserve panda populations.

What animal is the symbol of Mongolia?

Mongolia is the land of expanses and steppes, so it is logical that horse is her symbol. It signifies grace and courage. For the Mongolian tribes, the horse was a twin and a support, almost a member of the family.

What animal is the symbol of India?

The national symbol of the country is the royal Bengal tiger. This animal is the hero of the legends and myths of India. Today, the Bengal tiger is an endangered species through sport hunting, collecting tiger skins and trophies.

What animal is the symbol of the USA?

bald eagle- the national symbol and national emblem of the United States, according to the decision of the Second Continental Congress in 1782. The Founding Fathers of the United States chose this bird because it lives only in North America. The eagle is a symbol of the spirit, freedoms and superiority of the United States among other countries.

What animal is the symbol of Thailand?

The most important and revered animals in Thailand are - elephants. They are a symbol of the country, personifying wisdom, strength and good luck. These animals are the most industrious and strong on Earth. They have been serving people since ancient times: they carry goods, take part in hostilities, and carry royalty on their backs.

What animal is the symbol of Canada?

Everyone knows that the most famous symbol of Canada is the maple leaf. However, there is another symbol in the country - beaver. In Europe in XVII-XVIII centuries hats made of beaver fur were in fashion. Animals were hunted, or rather, a real hunt for them began. Thanks to beavers, most of Canada was explored. So they became another symbol of the state.

What animal is the symbol of Spain?

Bat black mouse is the symbol of Spain. It used to be a winged dragon, but in 1503 it gave way to a bat. According to legend, during the battle with the Muslims for Valencia, a bat landed on the helmet of King Jaime I of Aragon. This was a cautionary warning to the king. Another version says that an arrow was fired at the king, and it hit bat who saved Aragon's life.

What animal is the symbol of New Zealand?

The most famous and recognizable symbol of the state is the flightless New Zealand bird. kiwi. IN wild nature they are rare, but images, souvenirs and decorations with kiwi in New Zealand are found at every turn.

What animal is the symbol of England?

In the United Kingdom a lion takes important place among characters. It is depicted on all variants of the coat of arms. As a symbol, it appeared during the reign of Richard the Lionheart. It personifies grace, wisdom, strength. No wonder he is the king of all animals.

What animal is the symbol of Egypt?

Cat- the second sacred animal of Egypt. She is the personification of the goddess of joy and fertility, the warmth of the sun, the keeper of the harvest and the hearth, the protector of pregnant women and children - the Goddess Bastet. The cat symbolizes dexterity and beauty, grace and affection. It protects houses from evil forces and spirits.

What animal is the symbol of Australia?

You certainly know the answer to this question. A marsupial is associated with Australia, the main pride of the country and its national symbol - kangaroo. According to legend, this was the first animal that Cook caught sight of when his expedition landed off the coast of Australia. In translation, the word "kangaroo" means "I do not understand."

What animal is the symbol of Lapland?

The symbol of the northern region is deer. Their number is equal to the number of inhabitants of the country.

What animal is the symbol of Russia?

The symbol of Russia is the bear. Western countries began to identify Russia with this animal in the 18th century, claiming that "it is a big, clumsy and cruel" country, similar to a brown bear.

We hope that from this article you have learned which animals are the symbols of entire countries.

Animals symbolize instinctive life; fertility and abundance; instinctive and emotional impulses that must be curbed before entering into the realm of the spiritual; passive participation and the animal nature of people: "it is impossible to find an animal that would not have at least some resemblance to man."

The Slavic amulet is made strictly individually for its owner, using information about the name and date of birth. It all starts in the local forge, where a hot alloy of three metals takes the form of a circle - ancient symbol cyclical life. Facial and reverse side are turned by hand.

After that, the elder of the community - a man of great strength - performs special rite with ancient pronunciations, during which a stigma in the form of a powerful rune is applied to the amulet.

The amulet is based on a combination of metal and stone, reflecting the unity of the physical and spiritual in a person. The red stone affects energy centers and awakens in a person a pillar of the energy of love, which attracts the right people and desired events.

Viper
In Christianity, symbolizes evil. According to St. Augustine, is one of the four aspects of the devil. The deaf viper personifies sinners who close their ears from the voice of the teaching and the words of life.

Gazelle
Its symbolism is similar to that of the antelope, deer or goat.

Hippopotamus
Sometimes equated with the Old Testament hippopotamus.

Pigeon
It symbolizes the spirit of life, the soul, the transition from one state to another, the spirit of light, purity (but in some traditions - a symbol of voluptuousness), innocence, tenderness and peace. The dove is dedicated to the Great Mothers and Queens of Heaven. Then it means femininity and motherhood.

Ermine
It symbolizes purity, purity (because the ermine is white in winter) and innocence, and is also associated with justice.

goose
Solar (they say that it follows the sun during migrations) is a symbol of breath, wind ("bird of a sigh"), vigilance, love, a good housewife.

Chameleon
The element of air (it was supposed to be powered by wind).

Turkey
Sacred bird of the Toltecs. "Precious Bird". Food for ritual ceremonies, thanksgivings and other holidays.

Jaguar
In Aztec mythology, it means the forces of darkness in conflict with the solar eagle. In Mexican tradition, the jaguar is the messenger of the spirits of the forest.

Boar
Has both solar and lunar meaning. As a solar symbol, he personifies the male principle. The white boar is lunar and feminine, reflecting the principle of water, as it lives in swamps.

Whale
It personifies the power of cosmic waters, renewal, both cosmic and personal, as well as the absorbing grave. The whale's stomach is both a place of death and rebirth.

Coyote
The American Indians have both a werewolf and a hero, savior and demiurge. Leads away from danger, but, having a lunar character, sends floods. Spirit of the night and cunning in the beliefs of the Indians of the western mountains.

cat
The cat, having the ability to change the shape of the pupil, symbolizes the changing power of the Sun, as well as the phases of the Moon and the magnificence of the night. It means also everything that is done furtively; desire and freedom.

Goat
It personifies courage, abundance of vitality, creative energy.

Capricorn
In Egypt, the capricorn was dedicated to Seth and Reshep. Shares the symbolism of the ghazal.

Kid
Dedicated to Sylvanus and Faun, the gods of spring, and replaces the dying god in Canaanite and Babylonian rituals associated with death and resurrection.

Crab
The crab symbolizes the retrograde movement of the Sun after the summer solstice. This movement personifies dishonest, unreliable, dishonest people, money changers and usurers.

Crocodile
Devourer symbolizing the need to go through death to a new life. A crocodile with an open mouth means moving against the current, liberation from the limitations of the world.

Rabbit
Lunar animal.

Mole
An underground dweller with chthonic symbols, representing the forces of darkness. Symbolizes the misanthrope.

Rat
The animal of the plague, God's punishment, symbolizing death, decay, the underworld.

Cuckoo
The cuckoo symbolizes spring in Southern Europe and summer in northern regions; the Greeks have a wedding dinner. Cuckoo is one of Zeus's transformations to get Hera.

Chicken
Represents reproduction, maternal care, as well as providence.

Partridge
Represents fertility.

Doe
Often depicted with the Tree of Life.

Martin
It symbolizes hope, the arrival of spring, good luck.

Swan
Combining two elements: air and water, the swan is the bird of life, and personifying the sunset of the day - the Sun.

a lion
It has a dual meaning, carrying both solar and lunar symbolism, the personification of both good and evil. As a solar symbol, the lion personifies the heat, brilliance and strength of the midday Sun, the principle of fire, magnificence, strength and courage, stamina, justice, law, military power, the King of Beasts.

Leopard
A symbol of cruelty, ferocity, aggressiveness, fearlessness. Because the leopard's spots resemble eyes, it is called the Vigilant Guardian.

Elk
The American Indians symbolize supernatural forces, a hurricane.

Horse
Has a dual meaning. As a solar force, a white, golden or fiery horse appears with the sun gods harnessed to their chariots; like the lunar (element of moisture, sea and chaos) force - the war horses of the oceanic gods. Thus, the horse symbolizes both life and death.

Frog
Lunar animal that brings rain.

Robin
In Christianity, it means death and resurrection.

Bear
It symbolizes the resurrection (the appearance in the spring from his winter lair with a bear cub), a new life, and therefore initiation and rituals associated with the transition.

Ant
Means hard work.

Mouse
Chthonic symbol, meaning the forces of darkness, incessant movement, senseless excitement, turmoil.

Monkey
It personifies shamelessness, perseverance, malevolence, lower instincts.

Octopus
Associated with dragon, spider and spiral symbolism.

deer
Symbolizes the Sun, renewal, creation, fire, sunrise.

Eagle
The solar symbol of all the gods of the Sun, the midday sun, the spiritual principle, ascension, inspiration, liberation from bonds, victory, pride, contemplation, apotheosis, royal origin, power, strength, height, the element of air. It was believed that the eagle was able to fly to the Sun and, without blinking, look at it and connect with it. In this regard, the eagle personified the spiritual principle in man, which is able to soar to Heaven. Double-headed eagles are attributes of the twin gods and can mean omniscience and dual power. The rivalry between the eagle and the bull, or the eagle and the lion, in which the eagle always wins, personifies the triumph of the spirit and intellect over the carnal nature. The conflict between an eagle and a serpent, or an eagle with a snake in its claws, represents the victory of the spirit. In this fight, the eagle personifies the forces of good, and the snakes - the forces of chthonic and evil.

Donkey
Means humility, patience, peace, stupidity, stubbornness, fertility, lust.

Sheep
Means blind, unreasonable following and helplessness.

Panther
In Christian tradition, it is claimed that the panther (leopard) saved people from the dragon, or the spirit of evil. Since it was believed that her breath was fragrant, she symbolized the beneficial influence of Christ.

Spider
Great Mother in the terrible incarnation of the weaver of fate is sometimes depicted in the form of a spider. All moon goddesses are spinners and weavers of fate, and the Cosmic Spider, the Great Spider or Great Spinner, is the Creator who spins the thread of life from his own substance, attaches all people to himself through the umbilical cord, and weaves them into the web of patterns of the world.

Peacock
Solar symbol associated with the cult of the tree and the Sun.

Pelican
Since it was believed that this bird feeds the chicks with its own blood, it symbolizes sacrifice, mercy and meekness.

Rooster
Solar bird, an attribute of the solar gods, with the exception of Scandinavian and Celtic symbolism. Male principle, Bird of Glory, meaning superiority, courage, vigilance, dawn.

Parrot
Symbolizes imitation, repetition without understanding.

Lynx
Symbolizes visual acuity. It was believed that the lynx was able to see through the wall.

Jackal
Able to see day and night, is the symbol of the Egyptian Anubis, "Pathfinder", "Opener of the Path", psychopomp, leading souls from this world to another.

Scorpion
Means death, destructive power, disaster, darkness.

Dog
It personifies fidelity, vigilance, nobility, (dogs and falcons are the emblems of the nobility). Plutarch says that dogs symbolize "a conservative, vigilant, philosophical beginning in life." "A dog raising its rough neck, with a muzzle alternately black, then gold means a messenger scurrying back and forth between the higher and underground forces" (Apuley). She guards the borders between that world and this one, the guardian of this transition, the guardian of the underworld, the servant of the dead, the psychopomp. Being a lunar animal along with a hare and a lizard, a dog is an intermediary between lunar deities.

Falcon
Shares with the eagle much of its solar symbolism. Can change places with him. This is inspiration, victory, climbing through all levels. It also denotes freedom, and therefore hope for those who are in chains, moral or spiritual.

Magpie
In China, it symbolizes good luck and is considered the "bird of pleasure". The crackling magpie brings good news and the news that guests will come. During the Manchu Dynasty, the magpie represented imperial rule.

Owl
Ambivalence symbol. A bird of wisdom, but also of darkness and death. American Indians: wisdom, prophecy.

Ostrich
The ostrich feather symbolizes truth and justice (since its feathers are exactly the same).

Pig
A symbol of fertility and therefore prosperity. However, it also means gluttony, greed, greed, malice and unbridled passion, as well as impurity. The sow is associated with the Great Mother and has lunar and celestial symbolism.

Calf
The sacrifice of the calf signifies an unblemished sacrifice.

Tiger
Ambivalent. This image is both lunar and solar at the same time. He is the creator and the destroyer. The tiger wrestling with the snake symbolizes the heavenly solar power. In a battle with a lion or an eastern dragon, the tiger becomes a lunar, chthonic and malevolent symbol. It also symbolizes royal dignity, cruelty, strength. May be the personification of Mother Earth.

Duck
Since the duck swims on the surface, it symbolizes superficiality. It also means talkativeness, as well as deceit.

Camel
In Christianity, it symbolizes moderation, dignity, royal blood, obedience, vitality and is associated with the Magi and John the Baptist, who wore a camel-skin belt.

ox
If the ox is associated with the bull, it symbolizes the solar principle and fertility. If it is understood as a castrated bull, then it loses the meaning of fertility and becomes a lunar symbol, personifying innate physical strength, patient work, prosperity and sacrifice.

Wolf
Means earth, evil, devouring passion and rage. Wolves and ravens are often close friends of the primitive gods of the dead.

Crow
Being a "talking bird", symbolizes prophecy. In other respects, it is ambivalent: it means at the same time the solar goodness and the darkness of evil, the wisdom and destruction of war.

Otter
In Zoroastrianism, this is one of the "clean" animals, the killing of which (like dogs) was considered a great sin.

Lizard
Is a lunar being. This is the element of moisture. Since it was believed that the lizard has no tongue and feeds on dew, it personified silence.

Hawk
Solar bird. It has the same symbolism as the eagle. It is an attribute of all the gods of the Sun and personifies Heaven, strength, royal origin, nobility. It was believed that a hawk, like an eagle, could fly to the Sun and look at it without blinking. Gods who appear accompanied by a hawk or have a hawk's head are the gods of the Sun.

Hare
Lunar animal and attribute of all lunar deities.

Toad
Lunar animal related to the water element. Symbolizes evil, disgusting things and death. It is believed that the toad, like a snake, has in its head gem.

In Iranian symbolism, the stallion personifies the power of the sun and fire and is an attribute of the warrior class.

Crane
This is the messenger of the gods, personifying communication with the gods, the opportunity to enter higher states of consciousness.

Snake
A highly complex and versatile symbol.

bison
The symbolic animal of the Assyrian-Sumerian Bel or Enlil, as the ruler of heaven, earth and fate.