Eagle Mandala Animal Art [6]

The Eagle in Native American Culture

Both Bald and Golden Eagles (and their feathers) are highly revered and considered sacred within American Indian traditions, culture and religion. They are honored with great care and shown the deepest respect. They represent honesty, truth, majesty, strength, courage, wisdom, power and freedom. As they roam the sky, they are believed to have a special connection to God. According to traditional American Indian beliefs, the Creator made all the birds of the sky when the World was new. Of all the birds, the Creator chose the Eagle to be the leader… the Master of the Sky. Internet Reference Source

The Eagle in Human Culture

Mankind has been fascinated by the golden eagle as early as the beginning of recorded history. Most early-recorded cultures regarded the golden eagle with reverence. Only after the Industrial Revolution, when sport-hunting became widespread and commercial stock farming became internationally common, did humans started to widely regard golden eagles as a threat to their livelihoods. This period also brought about the firearm and industrialized poisons, which made it easy for humans to kill the evasive and powerful birds. The Ancient Egyptian sun god Horus was depicted as having the head of a falcon, and was important as a deity representing the Pharaoh. Horus played an important role, too, as representing resurrection, being the son of his mummified father Osiris and mother Isis. The Greeks and Romans believed Zeus and Jupiter respectively to be represented by the eagle. Internet Reference Source

Eagle Meaning and Symbolism

From ancient civilizations to the modern day, the meaning of an eagle has stayed mostly the same. The eagle symbolizes bravery, strength, power, and freedom but also self-expression, enlightenment, and spirit, and acts as a reminder of our spiritual side. These beliefs developed over time and came from cultures from around the world. Romans and Aztecs, for example, believed that the strong and powerful eagle represents warriors and tied the symbol to the military. In the United States, the eagle is a symbol of national pride and is featured on the Great Seal of the United States and on the dollar bill. The spiritual meaning of eagles shows the “softer” side of this majestic creature. Seeing them soaring high in the sky has led many cultures and beliefs to associate them with the divine and spiritual side. Different eagles also have their own meanings. For example, Bald Eagle symbolism is connected to expansion, strength, victory, and action. It is also the national bird of the United States of America. Golden Eagles represent communication, inspiration, and optimism. Internet Reference Source

What Does It Mean If You See An Eagle – Spiritual Symbolism

According to many indigenous cultures, every person is linked to a spirit animal that serves as a guide and helps them find their purpose. Spirit animals have been a part of spiritual lore for centuries, but only recently have they become popular with mainstream society. Despite initial skepticism, many people are now curious to learn more about their own spirit animals, as well as the messages that they convey. The eagle is admired by many cultures because of its strength and power, courage, pride, and gratefulness. Its ability to swiftly navigate the sky also makes it a symbol of supremacy. Internet Reference Source

About the Animal Mandalas

Animal mandalas range from simple designs featuring cute little puppies and kittens that appeal to children, to detailed works of art ripe with spiritual symbolism. As an artistic tool for children, animal mandalas can supplement learning and provide an outlet for creative expression. For adults, the symbolism and meaning of the design may be more important. Consider the use of the mandala before you choose an animal design. Internet Reference Source