The symbolism and meanings of the Owl

A favourite symbol at HIPPIE, where we think of wisdom and learning as we see the Owl, there are several meanings for owls, and each culture has its own significance for this beautiful creature. We have scoured the internet and thumbed through reference books galore to find out what people believe the symbol of the Owl means to them and what it’s presentation means across cultures around the world!

Charlotte Kirsten, M.A., a cultural symbolism expert and founder of Typically Topical says .“Owls symbolize inner wisdom, change, transformation, intuitive development, good luck, and self-actualization," 

For some Egyptians, owls were thought to be a sign of death. Others revered owls for their keen vision for hunting. "In Ancient Egypt, owls were regarded as the gatekeepers of the underworld, helping protect the souls of those who unintentionally strayed into this land… They were seen as auspicious symbols of courage, higher assistance, and supernatural wisdom."

In Celtic Irish culture, the owl is considered sacred. It is thought that owls are a representation of the Crone, a goddess who is thought to carry you out of this plane of existence. The owl is also considered a representation of wisdom that is gained as the soul ages. Some Celtic myths state that a shaoe shifting spirit takes the form of an owl and appears before death and symbolises transition and change. 

"Many Native American tribes believe Owl is the spirit of a deceased ancestor or other spirit. Owls are believed to serve as a bridge between worlds—life and the afterlife… Owls are eternal teachers. They represent the energy of the wise elders and ancestors who have previously walked the land." says Kathy Harmon-Lubar, a certified reiki & sound therapy practitioner and author of Suffering to Thriving.

“In Japan and China, owls symbolize good fortune and protection," She adds that "It's said that placing an owl in your home either through an object or painting will banish negative energies and bring about abundance: mentally, physically, and emotionally." With the principles of Feng Shui in mind, owls are a representation of good luck, wisdom, and protection. Some believe that when you hear the hoot of an owl, death or illness will occur within your home.

The Romans viewed owls as a symbol of wisdom, healing, arts, and intuition. While some thought positively about what an owl symbolises, some viewed the owl’s hoot as a sign of impending death.

In Greek Mythology, owls were thought to symbolize the blessings of Athena, the goddess of war, handicraft, and practical reason. During battles, owls were seen as a protector and as a sign that Antena was overseeing the battle.

  Inbaal Honigman, celebrity esoteric adviser says "In ancient Greek and Roman cultures, the owl was revered as a symbol of the goddess Athena or Diana and protector of the city of Athens… it also represents the soul."

For Norse Pagans, owls are seen as a guide to the underworld. Owls are considered to provide light and direction within the spiritual realm. 

In Hindu mythology, some worship owls on Diwali as they are viewed as a connection to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. At other times, owls may be used as a sacrifice to the gods to get rid of bad energy, bad luck, and other forms of sorcery. 

Judaism presents the owl in a more negative light: "In Judaism, the owl is revealed as an unclean bird and used in stories to express desolation," says Honigman. In the Torah and Old Testament Bible, owls were written as symbols for isolation, loneliness, and judgment.

In African cultures, owls symbolize death and many fear the animal. There is still the belief that if you hear or see an owl flying, then death is imminent.

 

Come take a look at ways to incorporate this beautiful animal into your environment or choose the perfect gift for an owl fan here:

Owls – HIPPIE Life UK