Spirit Animals
In many First Nation cultures there is a belief that a person is assigned an animal that displays part of their personality or being. In some cultures, they believe people are assigned their animal at the time of birth.
Below are some animal names and what they are believed to symbolize. ***NOTE: Different cultures may have slightly different meanings that the animals represent. Interpretation of the symbols varies among the Native Peoples. Raven - The mercurial trickster of Northwest Coast Native lore. Curious and mischievous, often misbehaving but never boring. Sea Turtle - This totem is representative of Mother Earth. Eagle - Intelligent and resourceful. He rules the sky and is able to transform himself into a human. Wolf - Very powerful totem who can help people that are sick or in need. Bear - A teacher symbol as it is believed that Bear taught the People to catch salmon and pick berries. Frog - Known for bringing wealth and is associated with Copper Woman. In another myth, frog was held down in fire, when it burst lava flowed and engulfed an entire village. Otter - The otter is a mischievous creature that is also a symbol of laughter, curiosity, grace, and empathy. Salmon - The salmon symbolizes instinct, persistence, and determination. Owl - The owl is a very respected animal and is thought to symbolize the souls of the departed. Killer Whale - Whales are honored as strong and brave fish. The mythology of the killer whale is that is will bring food and assistance to a chief or other important person lying helpless and/or wounded. |
Other websites to look at in researching meanings to the animals in nature.
http://shop.slcc.ca/node/5 http://www.batstar.com/first-nations-animal-descriptions/ http://www.aitc.sk.ca/saskschools/firstnations/beliefs.html |