General Symbolism:
* Strength and Power: Lions, tigers, eagles, and bulls often represent strength, power, and dominance.
* Wisdom and Intelligence: Owls, snakes, and elephants are often associated with wisdom, intelligence, and knowledge.
* Freedom and Independence: Birds, wolves, and horses often symbolise freedom, independence, and wildness.
* Loyalty and Protection: Dogs, wolves, and bears can represent loyalty, protection, and faithfulness.
* Peace and Harmony: Doves, butterflies, and deer are often associated with peace, harmony, and gentleness.
* Transformation and Rebirth: Butterflies, snakes, and phoenixes often symbolize transformation, rebirth, and renewal.
Specific Animal Symbolism:
* Lion: Royalty, courage, strength, power
* Eagle: Freedom, vision, strength, power
* Snake: Wisdom, knowledge, transformation, danger
* Wolf: Loyalty, freedom, wildness, instinct
* Bear: Strength, power, protection, motherhood
* Elephant: Wisdom, power, memory, loyalty
* Horse: Freedom, power, strength, grace
* Dog: Loyalty, friendship, protection, companionship
* Cat: Independence, mystery, intuition, grace
* Butterfly: Transformation, beauty, change, freedom
Cultural Variations:
* In Eastern cultures: Dragons often symbolize power and good fortune.
* In Native American cultures: Animals are often viewed as spirit guides or totems, representing specific qualities and teachings.
Important Considerations:
* Context is key: The meaning of an animal symbol can vary depending on the context, culture, and individual interpretation.
* Personal significance: Animals can also have personal meaning for individuals, based on their own experiences and beliefs.
Ultimately, the symbolism of animals is a rich and complex subject, offering a unique lens through which to understand the world around us.