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Have you ever wondered what your toxic traits are? According to astrology, knowing about the dark side of each zodiac sign lets you know yourself better.

Each of these symbols represents a sacred tree,animal or insect all very important to our ancestors Celtic Oak Tree of life The oak is considered a cosmic storehouse of wisdom embodied within its towering strength. Ancient Celts observed the oak's massive growth and impressive expanse. They took this as a clear sign that the oak was to be honored for its endurance, and noble presence. Indeed, wearing oak leaves was a sign of special status among the Celts (as well as ancient Greeks and Romans). Today we see artistic renditions of the "Leafman" in which a man's face is covered in leaves. This is an evolution of lore that dates back to earth-based spirituality in which the regal power of the oak was recognized and honored. There are accounts that trace the name "druid" to duir, the Celtic term for the oak. More interestingly, the actual translation of duir is "door" and lore indicates the spiritually advanced Celts would access the ethereal planes of higher thought (psychic vision or soul-thought) by "opening the oak door." The Celtic meaning of the oak tree includes attributes such as: Life Strength Wisdom Nobility Family Loyalty Power Longevity Heritage Honor The oak's status was (and still is) undeniable. Further merit to its regal presence is its tendency to attract lightning. This was considered hugely powerful among the ancients and is associated with one of their foremost gods, Dagda. Its attraction for lightning, its size and longevity (oaks are known to easily surpass 200 years of age) all make the oak a powerful, life-affirming symbol. The oak is a living legend representing all that is true, wholesome, stable, and noble. When you are in need of stability and strength in your life - envision the oak in your minds eye. Picture yourself drawing into its endless energy waves. Soon, you will find yourself sharing in its power. There is a reason the oak is considered the king of green realm. The oak is generous with its gifts - just as any good ruler shares its bounty amongst the kingdom Crow (Ogham = The Elder Tree) I love crows and ravens for their attitude. They do what they want, when they want and they'll tell you to "stow it" if you don't like it. You've got to admire that kind of gumption. As Celtic animal symbols, the crow stands for individuality with blazon disregard to what others think. Further, the crow is deeply honored by the Celts as an augury oracle. Crows carry big secrets stuffed betwixt their black feathers. Celts knew this, and were wise to let them have their way (indeed, killing a crow was a felony under Druidic rule). What kind of secret powers do you have? And, are you too concerned about what everybody else thinks to even entertain the idea of exploring your powers? If you get flak from others about your uniqueness, make like a crow, and tell them to stow it. Sparrow (Ogham = Fir Tree) On the other end of the attitude spectrum from the crow, the sparrow encourages us to be more polite in our dealings. Sparrows as Celtic animal symbols are representatives of simplicity, honesty and diligence. Like the wren, she is a bright omen to the home, and promises cheer and harmony within the family. Sparrows recognize safety in numbers, and when she flies into your sight, she may tell you to reconnect with friends and family. She may also prompt you to seek additional support in your projects. When the sparrow flies to me, I'm always reminded of my carbon footprints. Sparrows require so little, and leave nothing to waste. They ask me to do the same and limit needless consumption with a mindfulness to care for mother nature Dove = Aspen Tree (Ogham) Soft-soul'ed and supple-hearted, the dove coos to the softest sides of our awareness. When she comes to pay us a visit, it's time for us to settle into the soft down of her energy and take refuge in her feathery wings of comfort. Doves often come after a time of suffering because she recognizes our need for sanctuary. The Celts recognized the tenderness of the dove, and so can we. Look to the dove for healing, grace, kindness and peace. She carries all of these attributes and promises safekeeping form the storms of life. Owl (Ogham = The Hawthorn) When the owl screeches out to your consciousness, it's a safe bet. Owls have enchanted both ancient Celts and modern humankind alike. I often wonder if myth delegated the watchful owl to the realm of underworlds because the owl is so mysterious and cannot be defined - just like the underworld. Admittedly, the owl has some unusual mannerisms and behaviors. But, to be sure, she is a magnificent creature with vast attributes for our consideration. To wit, consider her hunting ability. Owls know how to get what they want (and often do so using curious methods). When the owl brushes your thoughts, begin to consider ways to get what you want, but not by using linear methods. Claw out of the usual, and fly into more unusual methods to accomplish your goals Rabbit (Ogham = Gorse) As Celtic Animal Symbols, rabbits are connected with the moon and so they run full circle with her cycles. They also share connections of femininity and fertility - which are also lunar-based attributes. When the hare hops into your awareness, it's time to set your mind of matters of reproduction. Hang on gentlemen, it doesn't have to be thoughts of physical birth. The rabbit talks to us about conception, conceiving new ideas and holding them in our fertile minds and hearts until they are ready to give birth in their own perfect timing (just as the moon would have it). And rabbits produce new life in such a humble way. There is no drama, rather there is a quaint, simple, calming way the rabbit goes about offering her new offspring. We can offer our new life (in all its hues) with trust, faith and assurance too Butterfly (Ogham = The Ash Tree) Much, like the deer, butterfly Celtic animal symbols beckon us to take life at the pace most suitable for our growth. The butterfly does not unfurl from her cocoon in response to an alarm clock - she emerges in her refinery at the perfect hour, fully developed and ready to receive the waiting winds for her first flight. Recall this kind of imagery if you are being pressured. Remember your inner evolution is like the path of the butterfly. Call upon her elegant rhythm and pure intuition. Further, when the butterfly comes to you, thank her for her natural poise and recognize the strength in her delicate ways. Swallow (Ogham = The Ivy) Swallows speak to us about partnership. Swallow pair monogamously (having only one partner). And so when the swallow wings its way into our thoughts it's time to focus on our relationships. Swallows ask us what we have we done for our partner lately. Pay a compliment, run an errand (out of kindness, not obligation) or offer assistance without being told. As Celtic animal symbols, the swallow also bends common gender roles. The males are the one to start the nest and they sing lovely songs to woo their mate into their freshly made roost. We can take the same cue from the swallow by going outside of our conditioned gender roles. Swan (Ogham = The Vine) One look at these Celtic animal symbols gives a full visual explanation of swan symbolism. Each movement of the swan is delicately choreographed, as if she is always being filmed before an admiring audience. And so, when the swan comes into your life's production, it's time to do the same. Make a fuss over your appearance, take time for self-grooming, and behave in a manner that shows how classy you are. Flaunt your feathers a little, make a conscious effort to exude beauty, grace and style. Be sure to keep it honest, clean and pure (the white swan asks us to be honest in our intent for beauty). Goose (Ogham = The Reed) For sure, home is where the heart is, but sometimes the act of going back to our psychological/energetic birthplaces offers tremendous healing and insight. Geese, as Celtic animal symbols, remind us we can navigate back to our origins with the purpose of renewal. With healing and love as our "true north" we move with the heart's compass. This is the message of the goose. The goose also encourages us to be at home within ourselves, and make friends with all the various houseguests we may have (i.e., bad habits, self-defeating thoughts, etc). This may sound counterproductive, but it's not. The goose knows that healing begins with acceptance first. Deer (Ogham = The Willow Tree) Be kind, be aware, and be tender with yourself and others. Deer as Celtic animal symbols walk gingerly and gracefully into our consciousness to bestow a quality of gentle reassurance. The deer, particularly does are reminders of spiritual evolution, and the patience required to allow our spiritual unfolding (at our own pace). If you've ever encountered the deer, you know they'll wait for an eternity until they are quite sure it's safe to make the next move. The deer asks you to do this same in your spiritual walk. Salmon (Ogham = Hazel) I know, it's odd to have a fish among the Celtic animal symbols associated with the trees of the Ogham, but the salmon wins its place on this list because of its mystical powers, which it shares with the hazel tree. In the legends of Fionn, the salmon lives in a fathomless well of wisdom where it swirls up ripples of knowledge from which the righteous may drink. There are hazel trees surrounding that well, and the savvy salmon would eat the hazel nuts that dropped into the well. So what does that mean to you? Dive deep within your own inner well and swirl around in the inherent depth of wisdom that is at your core. Furthermore, the salmon asks you to eat of the fruit of fine wisdom. Let your mind only consume that which augers well-being, and discount all the rest (like nay saying, negativity, etc). Horse (Ogham = The Oak Tree) Among one of the most honored Celtic animal symbols, the horse is a vehicle for some amazing transcendental experiences. Hop on the back of a horse, and take a free ride into the groves of your mind. With the horse as your guide, you will encounter themes of stability, honor, trust, intelligence and strength. Utilize the powerful energy of the horse to invoke courage in situations that otherwise leave you a little shaky. The horse is noble blood to the Celtic mind, unquestioning in its authority. Take on that same persona when you need to charge into a situation with confidence. Wren (Ogham = The Apple Tree) Homemakers are particularly honored with these Celtic animal symbols because the wren is a harbinger of a happy home. When the wren comes gaily into our experience, it's time to focus on hearth, home and families. Make a joyful noise with your kinsmen and women, and ease their burdens by helping out around the house. Contribute to the common good, and be part of solutions (not problems). Wrens also ask us to turn the other cheek. If someone incites your ire, turn the tables on them and be kind. This reverse-psychology tactic will totally throw your foe off-course. And, in so doing will make your heart just as the wren prefers it- light and happy. Eagle (Ogham = The Birch Tree) Eagles as Celtic animal symbols cry out to us for social connections, and strengthening our community. This takes a highly developed spirit, and so the Eagle is also a Celtic symbol of maturity and growth. Eagles are also quite fearless, and so when this regal birds flies into your skies, it may be time to make a bold move. Fox (Ogham = The Alder Tree Many Celtic and Gaelic tribes revered the fox as a master of the woods and a symbol of Cerunnos and Guides who help us on our journey in life ) The ancient Celts observed every nuance of their animals for meaning. The fire-red fur of the fox symbolized passion, play and action. When the fox comes darting into your view, it's time to act on your passions. If you've ever watched a fox run, they're bodies move like a pointed arrow. We can translate this in our own lives by driving toward the goals that ignite our passion with laser-like aim. Fox asks us to hit the target of yours Fox animal symbolism takes a turn of intelligence in the Celtic realm, as the Celts believed the fox to be a guide, and was honored for its wisdom. The Celts understood the fox knows the woods intimately, and they would rely upon the fox as their guide in the spirit world. Overwhelmingly, cultural consensus on fox animal symbolism deals with: cunning strategy quick-thinking adaptability cleverness wisdom It is noteworthy to observe the fox while it is on the hunt. We see its entire body is pointed like an arrow - straight and tightly aimed. This is a symbolic message for us to set a determined, and powerfully focused mindset in order to "hit the target" of our desires. The red in the fox is representative of a solar emblem. As a solar emblem the fox animal symbolism deals with: passion desire intensity expression The fox encourages us to think outside of the box and use our intelligence in different, creative ways. The fox also brings us a message to try to approach our circumstances differently that we normally would. Be aware of some of our habits, and try a different angle of action. The fox also a reminder that we must utilize all of our resources (seen and unseen) in order to accomplish our goals. Sometimes this means calling upon some unorthodox methods. Furthermore, the fox is a sign to be mindful of our surroundings. Phenomenally effective shapeshifters and incredibly adaptable, the fox beckons us to not make too many waves but rather, adapt to our surroundings, blend into it, and use our surroundings (and circumstances) to our advantage. Other generalized fox symbolic meanings deal with focus determination right-action It should be obvious from this summary that fox animal symbolism goes far beyond what we may see on the surface. On the contrary, the fox has an incredible amount of knowledge and wisdom to share with us if/when we are willing to be still for the teachings. Spend some meditative time with the spirit of the fox - odds are you will be amazed at the powerful insight this regal creature has to offer you. Bee (Ogham = Blackthorn) There's a reason bees are classified as busy, because they are! These creatures are tireless in their productivity. More importantly, it's their drive to contribute to the common good of the community that is noteworthy. Everyone does their part to see to the wellbeing of the commonwealth. Bees know that when one fails, the hive fails. That's why bees are fantastic Celtic animal symbols of industry, humanitarianism ( er, bee-itarianism, rather) and compassion. Bees have an innate and intricate sense of fellowship. I think bees are some of the most powerful symbols for psychic perception available to us in the animal world. See if you can be like the bee, and "sense" the need of your fellow man and provide - all without speaking a word. Celtic Owl Cailleach-oidhche, Owl, represents wisdom, stealth, initiation, change and detachment. She is associated with arcane lore, clairvoyance, seeking deeper knowledge and death as a new beginning. Owl is aware of her surroundings at all times, has great intuition and the courage to follow her instincts. She offers keen insight into obscure occurrences, a bringer of hidden truth, omens and secrets. She is the power animal of psychics. The Celts believe Owl is a mysterious magickal, sacred animal associated with deities of the Underworld, a place of unpredictable change, and is a guide to and from this realm. This raptor is associated with the Moon and the Crone aspect of the Goddess. Barn Owl is especially revered as the one who sees without sight and hears the unspoken )O( Celtic Cat Some Celtic mythology references cats as guardians of the Otherworld. While not especially prevalent in a lot of Celtic myths, they were a part of daily life. Artwork depicting cats can be found in The Book of Kells, dating back to circa 800. A famous 8th century Irish poem, "Pangur Ban," was written by a monastic student about his feline companion. The cat is a symbol of intuition and independence, and this is particularly true of the cat spirit guide. The cat totem is one that encourages clear perception, an agile mind and body, strong resourcefulness and independence. The cat can also be a strong challenger, encouraging you to come up with new ideas and visit new places. Because of its quick and clever mind, the cat can offer helpful inspiration if you find yourself stuck in a problem or your creative juices feel depleted. If you’re looking for an added boost of courage or confidence, the cat is the totem to call upon. As an ancient symbolic Celtic animal, the cat represents the guardian of the Otherworld (or Underworld, depending which texts you read from various regions). Stoic, silent and mysterious, cats fit the bill of Otherworld guardians quite well. They keep the secrets of the Otherworld eternally to themselves, as they gaze with guile upon a world that does not see or understand the depth of their knowledge. However, black cats in Celtic lore were considered evil, and were sacrificed. In Western tradition, black cats have been associated with witchcraft. This is due to black being associated with supposed perils of the night, and the cat is associated with transformation just as the veil of night shifts our perception of reality. However, in Ancient Rome the cat was sacred to Diana, the moon goddess. Here the cat was also considered a guardian of homes and a symbol of domestic goodness. In Muslim lore, the cat is honored for saving Mohammad from an attack by a fierce snake. Here it is believed the “M” marking on the forehead of many tabby cats is the mark of the prophet (”M” for Mohammad). In Norse legend the cat is depicted drawing the chariot of their fertility goddess, Freyja, and therefore the cat is thought of as a blessing upon newborns and a good omen for those increasing their family ranks. In ancient Egypt cats were sacred and were even depicted on the head of their lunar goddess, Bastet which was worshipped by the ancient Egyptians. In her honor, cats were even mummified along with mice for them to eat. Here's a quick-list for cat animal symbolism: Astute Clever Secretive Mysterious Intelligent Intuitive Supernatural Watchfulness Selective Independent Cats themselves are quite resourceful and tend to give us messages of change, flexibility of adaptability. Often, when a cat makes an uncommon appearance in our lives it is a message for us to shake up our habitual routines and make some fresh changes in our lives, as well as be more flexible in our thinking. Cats can also be quite aloof, and this too is often a message for us to distance ourselves from people or situations. Sometimes the best cure for a problem is to step away from it - the cat inherently realizes this, and we would be wise to recognize this need as well. Lastly, the cat animal symbolism is about mystery. Unfortunately, its unpredictability has given the cat a bad name in some areas of folk lore, specifically witchcraft. When, in actuality, this is an asset that can be harnessed by us humans. Sometimes displaying very strange behavior and antics, you can never really pin a cat down. Simply put, the cat animal symbolism is synonymous with creativity and psychic power because of its sometimes unorthodox & “mysterious” behavior. This is also reflected in the Tarot deck as we see the cat in the Queen of Wands card. The good news is, this mystery is a message to us that we have the power over illusion. Cat animal symbolism reminds us to not fall prey to false beliefs, to not be a fool out of ignorance and derive understanding from our own internal wisdom. The cat beckons us to realize that when we turn within to our own hearts, minds and souls, and trust in ourselves we will always be shown the truth of matters. Dog Celtic in Celtic symbolism, dogs are a representation of heroism. They embody heart-pounding attributes such as: Courage, Persistence, Virility. This, in large part is due to a Celtic dog's role in hunting. Dogs were even trained by the ancient Celts to assist in battle. So here we see that same thread of defense, protection and action for the good of the clan. An interesting paradox: Celtic dogs are also symbolic of healing. They are often associated with Nodens, a Celtic god of nutritive waters, hunting and healing (water is often synonymous with healing in Celtic wisdom). Dogs have also been portrayed with Sucellus, the Celtic god of protection and provision (from an agricultural view). Fidelity Loyalty Assistance Intelligence Obedience Protection Community Cooperation Resourcefulness Communication Sensory Perception But what is intresting is Native Americans also have the same symbolism for Dogs Native American Indian tribes have long depended upon the dog for their helpful guidance and assistance in everyday chores. Before horses, there were dogs and they were trained to help the tribe in agricultural efficiency as well as hunting. In fact, when horses were introduced to North America by the Spaniards, the term "sky dogs" was dubbed for horses because they were as helpful as their canine allies. In Native American wisdom dogs convey symbolism of: Assistance, Fidelity, Community, Protection, Friendship and Communication. Other Cultures such as the Egyptians and Romans and Greeks also Regarded the Dog as important and powerful symbol Consider Anubis, the Egyptian god whose charge is to insure safe transitions from common reality (physical life on Earth) into the Afterlife experience. With the head of a jackal (of canine ilk), Anubis dons the super-powerful sensory perception of the dog. Further, that dog connection represents the epitome of protection, guidance, loyalty and adherence to the flow of unseen spiritual energy. To be sure, safe passage from "life" to Afterlife will be seen to success under the governance of the dog/jackal-headed Anubis. In this ancient light, we get distinct impressions of: Security, Guardianship, Protection. Dogs are sacred to Hecate, the Greek-Roman overseer of lots of things - but surely a matron bound to protect that which is misunderstood. It seems (to me) where there is senseless lashing out against that which is misunderstood, Hecate comes ferociously in justification - her dogs baying with equal verve at her side. Death, darkness, wild wandering, lunar moodiness, midnight journeying...Hecate defends the soul's right to wander in these little-known, oft-misunderstood alleyways. With her highly perceptive hounds guiding the way (and protecting the body as the spirit wanders), astral travel becomes eons easier. Interestingly, Hecate and her hounds will also speak for (and protect) those who cannot do so for themselves. Newborns. Hecate and her dogs represent an "Alliance for Defense and Protection" to those who cannot defend themselves: Babies, Children, the Meek, the Mild, the Mad and the unjustly Maligned. Meditate, contemplate, embark on your own spirit-journey and get in touch with dog energy. Discover new canine concepts of your own. This breed of delightful expression is infinitely generous. Meaning, dogs will guide you to limitless potential if given the chance. They are actually anxious to serve! Let them. Celtic Wolf To understand totem wolf symbols, one must first understand the heart of the Wolf. This takes time because the Wolf has had to endure many false stereotypes, misconceptions and misunderstandings. Wolves were companion to the forest-deity Cernunnos, and appear on the famed Gundestrup cauldron. The Irish king Cormac claimed to have been suckled by wolves, and it was not unknown for entire tribes of Celts to claim descent from wolf-packs. The pack behavior of dogs and wolves was likely viewed as analogous to human tribes; portraits of the ancient mother goddesses often depict dogs suckling beside human infants. Not at all the picture of ferocity or terror, the Wolf is a creature with a high sense of loyalty and strength. Another misconception is that of the lone wolf. To the contrary, the Wolf is actually a social creature, friendly, and gregarious with its counterparts. The Wolf is an incredible communicator. By using touch, body movements, eye contact as well as many complex vocal expressions the wolf makes his point understood. Those with totem wolf symbols are of the same inclination they are expressive both vocally and physically. Those who have the wolf as their totem animal are naturally eloquent in speech, and also have knack for creative writing. A quick-list of totem wolf symbolic attributes include: Intelligence Cunning Communication Friendliness Loyalty Generosity Compassionate Totem wolf symbols belong to those who truly understand the depth of passion that belong to this noble creature. The Wolf is a representative of deep faith, and profound understanding. Another quality that the wolf has is the instinct to follow its intuition. The Celtics were warriors and hunters, and what could be a better source of inspiration and strength than a creature who is known for its hunting abilities. Apart from the wolf, the Celtic wolf claw was a very famous symbol of strength and endurance. Similarly, the claws of powerful and beastly animals like the lion, tiger, etc., are famous Celtic symbols for strength and courage Further, the Wolf possess a high intellect, and have been observed using strategies about hunting, habitat and migration. In history, the totem Wolf symbol appears with the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus. Legend has it that the two founding brothers were raised and suckled by a she-wolf. In Norse mythology, the Wolf is a symbol for victory when ridden by Odin and the Valkyries upon the battlefield. As a Celtic symbol, the Wolf was a source of lunar power. Celtic lore states that the Wolf would hunt down the sun and devour it at each dusk so as to allow the power of the moon to come forth. Celtic Bull The bull is a much-revered among Celtic animals, with several different translations. Mostly, the Celtic bull symbolizes of strong will, uncompromising, and even belligerent the bull stands for unbending, stubborn personality traits leading up to the term "bull-headed." On the flip side, the bull is also a virile sign for men, and a sign of fertility for women. Donning the bull symbol in the bed chamber (depicted on sheets, robes, pillows, etc) is said to enhance the mental state leading to sexual strength and endurance. A third representation of the bull sign is that of riches and wealth. Likely due to the fact that this creature was a great source of food the Celts, it can easily be associated with easier, fairer, and abundant times in the Celtic villages the bull represented physical strength and power. To the Celtic way of thought, the bull was also extremely virile, and so symbolized fertility and the power to procreate - to extend the life of the clans. Druids associated the bull with solar energy and the female cow with earth energy. The bull was also symbolic of great luxury, wealth and provision by later Celts. Indeed, cattle were a source of income and supply in many forms - a way of life for the Celts for centuries. Celtic BEAR is a symbol of Artio the Celtic Bear Goddess Surprisingly, images and most stories about Bears have been lost to the ages in Great Britain, Saxony, and Nordic legends. Bears are no longer found in Scotland (since the end of the eleventh century) or Ireland, since they were made extinct in the late Middle Ages. Bear amulets made of jet have been found in North Britain. Many times these were placed in the cribs of new-born babies so they would be under the protection of the Great Mother Bear. The Bear's strength and power made them a powerful totem symbol for the ancient Celts, and Bear's teeth were considered powerful amulets. Some Celtic sites had votive statues and ritual jewelry dedicated to the Bear. The Celts had two goddesses that took the form of the Bear: Andarta ("powerful bear") and Artio. In other cultures there are the bear god Artaois, Ardeche, or Arthe. Their names are both from "Art" which means "Bear, stone, or God." There are also many place names called Artos or Arth. Images of the god Artio have been found in Berne (Bear City), Switzerland, which has its "den of bears" which was used by the Bear cultists. King Arthur (a form of Artios or Artiaus, a great god of antiquity) is associated with Bear in that his name comes from the constellation of the Great Bear, which was also known as "Arthur's Wain/Arthur's Plow." Midwinter is the time of Alban Arthuan/The Light of Arthur and the Winter's Soltice. The Winter's Soltice is the longest night of the year, and people called upon the constellation of the Great Bear to light their way in the darkness. Soltices and Equinoxs were performed at Stonehenge. The Bear is also thought to be ruled by the planet Mars. Ancient traditions help us discover our ancestral roots. The legend of Arthur sleeping in an underground cave, waiting for his day of awakening, is like the life of a Bear that hibernates in the winter in a sort of suspended animation, as its bodily temperature falls to conserve calories. King Arthur and Queen Geunevere are also associated with the Alder Tree in Celtic Tree astrology. Arthur, as Artios, was consort to Cerridwen, the Welsh triple goddess who possessed a magic cauldron. In the medieval Welsh romance of Culhwch and Olwen, Arthur was also said to have gone to Ireland to recover this cauldron and in the process laid waster to one of the five Provinces. The Norse god, Thor, is associated with male Bears. Moon-goddesses often have association with Bears. Bear is like the Primal Mother, and will defend her cubs against all forces to the death. The Celtic god, Cernunnos is often depicted as being accompanied by a bear and other animals. Bear allows men to become Spirtual Warriors. Bear tells us not to allow the berserk (men that became bears) warrior to rule us by anger and primal ferocity which can damage lives, but to try to fight against what you can do and what you SHOULD do. The greatest men are said to be Art an neart - "a bear in vigor." The Druids called upon the blessings of the Great Bear, which is associated with the North. The reverence for Bears began to wain with the coming of Christianity, and was perverted into bear-baiting. Bear baiting was practiced in many royal courts. This was a gruesome game between bears and dog packs. The bear was usually tied to a stake, with a chain or put into a pit, while a herd of vicious dogs attacked the poor beast. This event was very cruel and bloody and similar to other such offenses against animals such as cock fighting, and pit bulls fighting. Symbol meanings are Bravery Peace Resurrection Powerful Benevolence Sovereignty Motherhood Duality In hibernation, the bear is associated with: Yin Moon Winter Inaction Feminine Darkness Introspection Subconscious The awakened bear meaning deals with: Yang Solar Action Masculine Spring/Summer Lightness Extroversion Consciousness In this respect we clearly see the bear wearing two faces of symbolism. Celtic Bat The bat has long been associated with witches, ghosts, and other tragic beings of the night. In the land of the Celts – from lonely moors to haunted castles – this selfsame supernatural being has always been close at hand. Bats symbolize death and rebirth. Sometimes, they are known as the "Guardian of the Night." It is largely misunderstood and so therefore many of its symbolic meanings are inappropriately fear-based. The bat is a symbol of rebirth and death because it is a creature that lives in the belly of the Mother (Earth). From the womb-like caves it emerges every evening at dusk. And so - from the womb it is reborn every evening. Illusion Rebirth Dreams Intuition Initiation Journeying Inner Depth Communication Celtic Dragon There is no more powerful symbol than Celtic dragons To invoke such reverence from the Celts, who were one of the most fierce and rugged ethnic groups in ancient times, they must have been much more than just fire-breathing beasts.Although dragons are usually associated with Asia, these mythical creatures can be found in fairy tales and folklore all over the world, including Celtic Ireland. In the secular world of Celtic chiefs and warriors, dragons are merely symbols of the power of the chief. Indeed the Celtic word for "chief" is Pendragon. But in the esoteric world of spirituality, Celtic dragons represent much more... What magical powers do these mysterious creatures possess that was so important that we can find tales including rituals of sacrifice to the mighty dragons? "Dragons were an important part of Celtic lore. The Celts were highly attuned to the land and dragons were believed to influence the land.... Areas frequented by dragons were believed to possess special power." Dragons have always been associated with the Power of the Land. Even today, in many esoteric rituals, people believe that invoking the "Eye of the Dragon" will increase their personal power. The ancient Druids believed the Earth itself was like the body of a dragon, and they built their sacred stone circles upon the "Power Nodes" of this body. They believed dragons connected us with the Earth's magnetism and healing waters. Many of us have heard the mysteries of the "ley lines", especially in relation to the location of mystical sites such as Stonehenge and the site of many mysterious crop circles. What you may not know is that another way of saying "ley lines" is "Dragon lines". In ancient Celtic Ireland, the "ley of the land" was not about the geographical, physical nature of one's surroundings. It had a much more powerful meaning than that. To the ancient Celts, the "ley of the land" was a term describing how the Cosmic forces flowed through and influenced the area, as well as how the area itself affected those Cosmic forces. Dragons were thought to have a tremendous influence on the "ley of the land", hence the term "Dragon lines". But far from the terrifying creatures we see in films, dragons were more than fire-breathing beasts with the power to destroy. The Anglo-Saxon word "dragon" is derived from the Greek word meaning "to see clearly". They believed dragons had the gift of vision, wisdom, and prophecy. Dragons were considered the guardians of all knowledge and wisdom. As Celtic artist Cari Buziak's design demonstrates, Celtic art often depicts Celtic dragons swallowing their tails in a never ending circle, symbolizing eternal life, much like the symbolism of knotwork and triskeles. The dragons were revered like gods, believed to bring Earthly and Heavenly forces together. Celts believed dragons guarded the gate to both the Heavens and the Underworld. As guardian spirits who protect the Earth and all living things, Celtic dragons are arguably the most powerful of all the Celtic symbols. Celtic Dragon Fly Like dragons, dragonflies have been immortalized in mythology all over the world. In fact, the name comes from a dragon. Native Americans believe a dragonfly was once a dragon that was tricked by a coyote to shape-shift into the insect. Once the dragon took the form of the dragonfly, it couldn’t shift back. To the Native Americans, the dragonfly represents swiftness, illusion andchange, which are three characteristics attributed to this insect around the world. As a creature of the wind, the dragonfly totem represents change. It's iridescent wings are incredibly sensitive to the slightest breeze, and so we are reminded to heed where the proverbial wind blows - lest we run into stormy weather. Dragonflies are also creatures of the water, and any creature whose habitat is in, or around water carries symbolism relative the the subconscious, or "dreaming" mind and thoughts. This is because in the animal world, water is symbolic of the subconscious mind ("deeper mind," "dreaming mind") and relates to the thoughts we have in relaxed/meditative/sleeping/subconscious states. Quick-list animal symbolism of the dragonfly: prosperity good luck strength peace harmony purity These symbolic meanings of dragonfly are particularly associated in Asian (Japan) and Native American (Plains region) circles. Dragonflies carry messages that deal with deeper thought - and they ask that we pay attention to our deeper thoughts and desires. Further symbolic insect meaning of dragonfly comes into play when we observe the dragonfly's mode of transportation as it skitters across the top of water surfaces. This implies that our deeper thoughts are surfacing and we must be mindful of the outcome we wish to have. The dragonfly is a reminder that when our deeper thoughts rise to the surface we must pay attention - there are lessons to be learned, and we are also reminded that what we think is directly proportionate to what we "see on the surface." ...In short, our thoughts (even the deeper ones that we might not be as in-touch with as we are with our conscious thoughts) are responsible for what we see in our lives - in our physical surroundings. The dragonfly gives us a very powerful meditation tool. Close your eyes, and focus on a thought - let it rise to the surface of your mind's ocean - see that thought float lightly up to the water's surface. Now upon the top of a smooth, calm glass-like surface - visualize that thought moving across that water - sliding across - smooth and fast. This exercise is useful when we want to visualize positive outcomes in a situation. We see the thought of hope happily moving across an ocean of peace (peaceful mind) and skitting to a perfect outcome. Lastly it should be noted that the Dragonfly lives a short life, and it knows it must live to the fullest with what it has. This lesson is huge for each of us. When you see a dragonfly, be aware of the gifts it has to offer by keeping its animal totem meanings in mind. Celtic Snake The ancient Celts were extremely nature-wise too, and approached snake symbolism from the behavior and life cycle of this magnificent creature. From the Celtic perspective, the snake was a symbol of secret knowledge, cunning and transformation. Further, the snake Celtic symbol comes from observations of the European viper (also known as the adder) which is the only (along with the common grass snake) species able to tolerate the colder climate of the ancient Celts. In the keen Celtic mind, snake symbolic meaning of transformation came from the shedding of its skin. Physical evidence of leaving its form behind (casting off the old self), and emerging a sleeker, newer version made the snake a powerful symbol of rebirth and renewal. The Irish Celts looked to the beasts of the earth, sky, and sea to find teachers, friends, and healers. Along with this fascination and almost worship of animal symbols, the Irish Celts revered Nature itself, be it in the form of plants, animals, or elements. They believed the animals were there to teach us how to live in harmony with Nature itself. Through animal symbols, the Irish Celts sought to commune with both the seen and the Unseen. Symbolism meaning Cycles Rebirth Patience Fertility Eternity Balance Cunning Intuition Awareness Healing Intellect Protection Solemnity Rejuvenation Transformation Occult (hidden) Knowledge Male/Female, Yin-Yang, Duality The Celtic snake both protected the entrance to the Otherworld and acted as the gods' companion. Ouroboros, the Earth Serpent represented the coiled energy within the Earth and, with her tail in her mouth, infinity. Thanks to the annual shedding of its skin, the snake was the Celtic animal symbolizing the cyclical nature of life Celtic Wild Boar Wild boars are fearsome, dangerous animals, yet prized for their meat, a favorite game animal of the Celts. The boar is an emblem of fertility, fearlessness, and strength, but also stubbornness, war, and chaos. As the meat of the boar is prized, it is also a symbol of hospitality. Any function of importance would include a feast with boar meat (Nothing says “you’re an honored guest” like a tusk-wound!) as a central offering, and roasted boar meat (the remains thereof, at least) is a frequent find in the burial-places of tribal chieftans. Serving boar meat not only demonstrated the honored position of a guest; it proved the skill and hunting prowess of the host. The boar figures heavily in tales of the Otherworld, often in the guise of a trickster figure, full of cunning and mischief. In mythological tales, the boar is often directly or indirectly involved in the death of the hero. The boar is a companion of the Celtic Diana and a frequent participant in the “wild hunt,” an otherworldly procession of faeries and ghosts. Otherworld pigs are usually enchanted, most often, they are involuntarily transformed as punishment for evil doings in human form Boar is a symbol of valor and ferocious strength for the warriors, one of the most popular animal symbols for the Celts. But unlike the Stag, the Bull and the sacred birds, the Boar was not particularly revered until the Iron Age Celts. The Boar symbol appears as a crest on the helmets of the warriors, and Celtic coins feature the Boar as a universal symbol of strength and fertility – sometimes portrayed with triple horns and often associated with the Tree of Life. Boars appear throughout mythology as magical, often destructive supernatural beasts. In the Welsh Maginogi stories, Gwydion tells Math son of Mathonwy of the arrival of strange creatures from the south called pigs – hobeu – belonging to Pryderi who got them from Arawn, King of Annwn, the Celtic Otherworld. The hunting of the Otherworld pigs is a favorite theme. The most legendary boar is Twrch Trwyth (Welsh) or Torc Triath (Irish): The King of the boars from whom Magh Treitherne is named. The great boar was once a wicked king. He and his followers were transformed into swine who laid waste to a third of Ireland. In the story of Culhwch and Olwen (the Mabinogi) Culhwch and Arthur are sent on a seemingly impossible quest to snatch the treasure of bristles from between the ears of the ferocious . In the battle of Mag Mucrime, pigs of magic, mucca gentliuchta, were said to come out of the cave of Cruachan, which is Ireland’s gate of the Underworld, and the Red Swine of Derbrenn appear frequently in the early tales. Fenian warriors hunt the treacherous, powerful boars, who lead the heroes to the Otherworld. Celtic Dolphin Many a tale has been told about the magic of dolphins. Their appearance off the shores of Ireland urged the Celts to contemplate an unknown universe the sea. Those who could not settle to simply cogitate Celtic seafarers held the dolphin in high regard. It became a symbol of friendship, intelligence, and good luck. Its status of luck was likely related to the fact that the dolphin was most commonly seen on the seas when the weather and waves were calm and fair. The Celts innately understood the intimate relationship between nature and beast. However, did the sight of the lucky dolphin cause fair weather, or was it the weather beckoned the dolphin out of its depths? Clearly, it's a question of which came first the chicken or the egg. Regardless, the dolphin is viewed as quite lucky indeed and this quality combined with it's cleverness and speed in the waters made the dolphin a highly respected among Celtic animals Playfulness Transcendence Gentleness Harmony Intelligence Contentment Friendship Community Resurrection Generosity Power Sun Dolphin meanings: Active, Life, Vibrant, Health, Renewal, Intelligence Moon Dolphin meaning: Hidden power, Intuition, Dreams, Conception, Feminine This is a key understanding because the dolphin meaning is connected with themes of duality. It has to do with the dolphin being both fish and mammal. It is both of the water, and an air breather. Ergo, dolphin symbolism talks to us about "being in two worlds at once." Indeed, the dolphin is a great conveyor of the concept of yin and yang. in Celtic animal symbolism, the dolphin as a highly honored creature as it was seen as the protector of sacred wells and sacred water. The dolphin, to the Celtic mind, is the watcher of the waters, and the guardians of all things water-associated. Celtic Griffin Guardian of the Divine protectors of life and remain loyal to their protection in the afterlife. An ancient creature embraced by many cultures, the Celtic animal griffin is a symbol of duality. Part eagle and half-part lion (depending on the region even part serpent, horse or dog), the meaning of the griffin reflects is dual physical form by presenting a balance of both good andnot so good qualities. The griffin's more likeable qualities include nobility, gentleness, and justice. Depicted on ancient stone tombs, griffins are the guardians and protectors of life, and remain loyal in their protection even in the afterlife. Griffins count nobility, vigilance, virtue and strength among their many positive attributes. The griffin is an incredibly strong symbol, and used only when the mightiest gods' attention needs to be captured, and reserved only when the need is greatest. Misused, or invoked for selfish reasons, the griffin brings about gluttony, vengeance, ferocity, and violence.

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