The Meaning and Symbolism of Spirit Animals in Different Cultures
Every creature on Earth, just like others throughout the universe, is a spirit incarnated—meaning 'in flesh'. A human is no exception; we are spirit incarnated forms. This physical universe is composed of the spirits that were once rebels and were deceived by Lucifer, the fallen angel. They were expelled from Paradise and cast into the outer darkness, a place known as Earth. While we often personify our spirit animals in stories and culture, the original idea behind them is more profound and spiritual.
Origins of Spirit Animals: A Spiritual Evolution
The journey of these fallen spirits from amoebas to humans is a progressive spiritual evolution. The Bible speaks of the original sin, which was the Great Rebellion in Paradise. This rebellion saw the spirits who followed Lucifer being kicked out and sent to the lower dimension. Our planet, Earth, is just a part of this larger spirit creation. From the humble amoeba to the most advanced of us, the human, this evolution continues.
After cleansing our characters from evil to good, which is the essence of repentance according to the Bible, we move on to spirit cities and classes, eventually rising to the Paradise of old. Jesus Christ himself spoke of paradise to a repentant man on the cross, stating, "You will be with Me in Paradise this very day!" This journey to higher states of being is a spiritual one, and part of it includes the symbolic representation of animals.
Exploring the Role of Spirit Animals
While there is no "best" spirit animal, cultures and practices vary widely in their perspectives. Each person's spirit animal is highly personal and based on their experiences and beliefs. For me, it is an owl. A profound encounter with an owl in the middle of the night at the Michigan State University litho lab has stuck with me for years.
I was working on lithographs for about 12 hours straight. As the night wore on, about 2 AM, I left the building and encountered a gigantic owl near a bush. I approached, touched, and stroked its feathers, and it simply stared at me intently. I withdrew and watched as it flew away, making no sound. For years, I wondered if it was a dream; however, looking at my watch, I saw that half an hour had passed.
The Symbolism Behind Owls
Owls are often associated with wisdom, guidance, and protection. In ancient cultures, they were seen as omens of change, sentinels of the night, and messengers of the underworld. The owl's often quiet and stealthy nature adds to its mystique, and its piercing eyes can be seen as a metaphor for insight and clarity in the dark.
Connecting with Your Spirit Animal
Connecting with your spirit animal is a deeply personal experience. It begins with reflection on your own life and experiences. Consider what animal you feel most drawn to, the one that speaks to your soul. Pay attention to dreams, signs, and symbols, and explore the cultural and mythological meanings of that animal.
Embracing the Journey of Enlightenment
The journey of understanding our spirit animals is a path of self-discovery. It requires embracing the spiritual aspects of life and reconciling with the teachings of religions and cultures. Meditation, rituals, and spiritual practices can help in this journey.
Finding Your Path
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to what the best spirit animal is. It varies based on individual beliefs and experiences. However, the search can lead to profound understanding and enlightenment. As you explore the symbolism and meanings behind these creatures, you also uncover more about yourself and your place in the grand scheme of things.
Remember, the journey is more important than the destination. As you embody the wisdom and guidance of your spirit animal, you move closer to your true self and your ultimate spiritual aspirations.