Sheep are animals with very strong symbolism in various cultures. They are mainly a symbol of gentleness and a great animal for those learning and exploring their spirituality.
It is a great spirit animal and rich in symbolism according to various cultures around the world.
Sheep Meaning & Symbolism
There is various symbolism associated with this animal and they are as follows:
Simplicity And Gentleness
The sheep is a symbol of simplicity and gentleness because this animal is naturally gentle. It is an animal that walks gently, is hardly violent, and will simply run at the sign of trouble rather than fight back.
It is also a simple animal in appearance and will only need sheering occasionally. This is an animal that does not need much grooming and as long as grazing grass is available and there is a safe place to sleep overnight it is content.
The simple ways of this animal make it the ideal symbol of gentleness and simplicity.
A Symbol Of Humility
This animal is also a symbol of humility across cultures globally. In the Christian religion, sheep are considered followers of Christ.
When they congregate as many of them for the sake of Christianity then they are known as the flock of Christ. For a person to be considered as part of the flock, they must practice humility and embrace the Christian teachings.
In other cultures, this animal is also seen as a sign of humility because of how it accepts to be led and herded without any fuss.
Spirituality
A sheep could also be a symbol of spirituality. It is a great animal to help connect with your spiritual side in many cultures.
In ancient cultures, sheep were sacrificed on an altar to gods to restore spiritual balance. In most parts of the world, sheep are used for meat and wool for making clothing items.
Most people believe using sheep products for clothing items is a way to connect more with the spiritual part of nature. It is like the animal lives on even after death through its useful products.
Symbol Of Life
Sheep is also a symbol of life in other cultures. It has been a source of food for many centuries. In some cultures, the people considered it a symbol of life because it was the main source of sustenance.
The sheep kept communities alive especially during winter by being the main source of food. It has kept remote communities in ancient days from dying and is hence regarded as a symbol of life.
Sheep Christian Symbolism
The sheep has a special place in Christianity because it is believed that when Jesus Christ was born he was surrounded by sheep. Jesus himself is referred to as the lamb of God who was crucified to save mankind from sin.
Sheep symbolized sacrifice in Christianity. The sheep is also a symbol of purity and Christians are referred to as the sheep of Christ when they are born again.
Sheep naturally are submissive to authority or their shepherd which is a close comparison to Christians who submit to the laws of the bible.
Sheep As A Spirit Animal
When the sheep is your spirit animal it tends to bring out your vulnerability and innocence that is within you. It could be a sign that you wish to bring back the child-like innocence that you once had.
A sheep as your spirit animal could also be a representation of your real-life vulnerabilities. These could be moments or situations that prompt you to release your soft side as a human being. You are likely to succumb to the pressure of your family or group.
If you see a sheep as your spirit animal it could also be time for you to release your tough and arrogant attitude. It is time you changed your approach and deal with situations in a gentle manner.
It could also be a sign that you are currently happy with your life and accomplishments. You might also need to sever your attachments and be happy with your life. This means achieving peace in your life and becoming more tolerant rather than being selfish.
Sheep Symbolism In Various Cultures
There is various sheep symbolism associated with various cultures and they are as follows:
Celtic Culture
According to the Celts, sheep are a symbol of family. The Celts were a pastoralist society and depended on their sheep flocks for their food and clothing.
They considered the sheep to be part of their identity or clan. It was a major source of sustenance for both the physical and spiritual aspects of the community.
There were even religious beliefs related to the sheep in the Celtic community involving reincarnation. A good example is when the Celts believed that if you died with your animals by your side, you will bring your animals with you in your afterlife.
Native American Culture
The North American Navajo tribe has strong sheep symbolism. This tribe believes that when you see one or more sheep in your life, this means that spirits are in communication with you, and the choices you require make your life better.
Many Native Americans lived off the land and their sheep were a main source of survival. They provided food and clothing and were also used while trading goods with other tribes as currency.
The sheep is a highly revered animal in Native American societies because it made these tribes survive the wildest conditions in the wilderness landscape. The sheep were part of their identity and their spirituality.
Sheep symbolism is active in many cultures around the world. It is a very special animal that requires scrutiny and when it is your spirit animal or you keep seeing it in your dream, then it means that a few changes will happen in your life when you take some actions.
We have looked at the various symbolism associated with this animal and depending on your culture and the role it plays this animal might either have positive or negative symbolism.
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