What Do Owls Symbolize & Why Are They Seen As Wise?

The owl has always been a popular creature among cultures and societies, be it for its nocturnal habits, its attractive feathers or its large, round eyes. It is also known for its deep hooting song, which has been the subject of some wonderful stories and folklore. But there is more to the owl than meets the eye; its vast array of characteristics has made it a symbol of mystery and wisdom throughout many different cultures.
In Ancient Mesopotamia, the owl was revered as a symbol of beauty and fertility. The Ancient Greeks believed that the “owl of Athena” was a messenger of great wisdom, and would accompany the goddess on her travels. In Celtic and Nordic cultures the owl symbolized knowledge, insight, and the ability to see beyond immediate appearances.

But why is the owl so often considered to be wise?

The Main Characteristics of the Owl That Symbolize Wisdom

One of the most notable qualities of the owl that symbolizes wisdom is its silent flight. Owls are able to fly without making a sound, and their wings are specially adapted for this purpose. This has led to the belief that the owl has the ability to observe, watch, and listen in silence and stillness. This is a skill that can help uncover secrets, gain insights, and even impart wisdom.

The owl is also seen to possess a keen sense of sight and hearing that surpasses that of other animals. The owl’s eyes are large and placed at the front of its head, allowing it to detect even the slightest of movements and sounds. This keen attention to detail means that it can accurately interpret its surroundings, gaining an understanding of the bigger picture that is otherwise not available to other animals.

The owl’s acute vision and hearing have also led to it being considered an animal of prophecy, with some cultures believing that it could predict and interpret events that would unfold in the future. This has made the owl an important figure in their cultures, often associated with guidance and advice.

The Ancient Representations of the Symbolism of the Owl

The concept of the owl being a source of wisdom is deeply embedded in ancient cultures, with many societies, religions, and literature alluding to it.

The Ancient Greeks believed that the owl was a messenger of Athena and would accompany her on her travels, viewing the world and imparting its knowledge to the goddess. The owl appears in many of their artwork, sculptures, and mythology, and is symbolic of Athena’s protection and wisdom.

Similar beliefs can be found in other ancient societies. In India, owls were seen as a messenger of Lakshmi, the goddess of fortune and prosperity. In ancient Egypt, the owl was a symbol of protection. In China, the Ch’an-ying, a sacred, spiritual owl, granted wisdom to the emperor.

The owl is also featured in many Native American art and folklore, with some tribes seeing it as a symbol of guidance and protection. The owl’s presence was believed to be a message from Spirit, and would listen to and observe all that was occurring in order to share lessons of understanding and awareness.

Conclusion

The owl is an animal that has inspired many cultures and societies and is held in high regard as a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and insight. Its silent flight, sharp hearing and vision, and ancient mythology all contribute to its reputation as one of the wisest animals on the planet.