Introduction

The world of symbols we use in order to talk to ourselves is vast. I encourage you to look at as many resources as possible when seeking the personal meaning of an animal. The best resource of all though is you. Find the aspects of an animal that feel right and true to you personally. Ask yourself questions about why a particular animal captured your attentions. It could have a message to deliver about a current situation or it could be a life long totem animal; only you can know.
With the growing popularity of Earth-Based religions and early indigenous American style spirituality the phrase "totem animal" has become a somewhat generic term that actually encompasses meaningful spiritual relationships with animals in a variety of forms. There are historical cultural differences and origins for the uses of words such as, "totem", "medicine" and "fetish", and those uses can vary from tribe to tribe, Nation to Nation. Performing a search of those words can expose more detailed educational information about how indigenous Americans used them, and I would recommend learning from more professional resources in addition to user-based sites such as this blog. My purpose of explanation here is to point out how the words are commonly used in the broad arena of modern New-Age understanding.

I'm writing the symbolic meaning of animals from my own words, observations, and personal references. Most of the creatures I'll discuss will be those from North America because that is where I live, as do the animals and insects that I encounter. The articles and information here are mainly original content not compiled from previously published materials on the subject, other than my own sites, and are not to be used for profit. Information should be considered as "entertainment" only, so readers use any advise or information at their own risk.

Sunday, April 14, 2013

Symbolic Meaning of the Badger

Hand painted Spiritkeepers Stones badger, by Tree Pruitt.
 The loose skin and cuddly look of badger is a bit deceptive because powerful muscles lay beneath that fluff. Illusion is one of the gifts of badger medicine. Though an unsociable animal, badger hangs loose in its skin and can take bites from others without much danger to itself. This protective quality can often slow things from getting through to badger people. They may need a bit more patience from loved ones who share the family den, as they often have difficulty relating to others. Not being fans of authority, expressing themselves in a clear balanced manner and staying out of conflict is often a great challenge. Badger people may also need more time to absorb changes and learn concepts new to them. But when they decide they are ready no knowledge on the Earth can stay buried for long. As with any animal messenger, badger can be a temporary power animal or life long totem. If badger has entered your life in some way you might also take a look at the weasel family as a whole, and the prey of the badger, to discover other important aspects. The dachshund, known as the badger dog, was bred just for hunting this fierce member of the weasel family, so examining what preys upon badger can also reveal much to the spiritual seeker.


  Points to Ponder  

Positive Aspects - illusion, expression, strength, Earth knowledge, durability, focus, ability to dig to the core of the problem swiftly, caring for the self, positive self image

Negative Aspects - aggressiveness, poor adaptability, rushing to conclusions without assessing the entire situation, anti-social behaviors, difficulty relating to others, pretense or arrogance



Tree Pruitt, 2007. *Some concepts may be referenced from information supplied through, "Animal Speak", by Ted Andrews, Llewellyn Publications, without direct quotation.
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