Regardless of which generation you are part of, almost all of us have gone through the phase of blindly being a fan of Harry Potter. Among most characters in this popular franchise, Hedwig, the pet Snowy or White Owl, is a favorite.
But have you thought of the meaning behind this white owl? It is said that the first companion of Harry’s adventure symbolized the protagonist’s innocence and security.
And the loss of the White Owl indicated the end of the protagonist’s childhood era.
Like Hedwig, White Owls in general have their own spiritual, symbolic, and cultural interpretations.
These interpretations are not limited to certain standards rather they can change based on the situation you are facing.
Now that you have come across this article, you will be able to know the fascinating world of the White Owl’s meanings from different versions and perspectives.
Let’s unfold all of them together!
Contents
White Owl Meaning: Spiritual & Symbolic
When it comes to the symbolic significance of the white owl also known as the snowy owl, the polar owl, and the Arctic owl, there seem to exist a lot of variations. There might be some connections with other white bird meanings but it holds more specialty than that of any common white bird.
Henceforth, in this section, I will be providing you with a general idea about what the white owl means spiritually and symbolically.
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Symbol of Wisdom
In terms of symbols, owls have a history of being connected with wisdom and knowledge. They come across as a graceful and reserved species. From folk tales to modern shows, they are always a part of enlightenment. It is mostly because of their night vision. Their ability to be active both at night and day is associated with the ability to detect the truth and be knowledgeable.
These highly spiritual species were believed to be a source of knowledge. Even in modern culture, owls are associated with libraries where knowledge is stored. Even their snowy white appearance is part of the reason why they are a symbol of wisdom.
Symbol of Purity and Protection
Symbolically speaking, white owls symbolize purity and protection primarily because of their vivid bright white appearance. The association itself is subjective and can change across different cultures. However, primarily, the color itself is often connected with the idea of purity, spirituality, cleanliness, innocence, clarity, etc.
And in the case of protection, the presence of this species is often linked with the presence of a higher realm or beloved ancestors’ protection as well. In this case, as well, their ability to hunt and navigate during both day and night turned out to be a symbolization of protection against unseen danger and warding off anything evil. Hence, the inherent quality of the white owls spread the warmth of being pure and protected.
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Symbol of Power
Being a nighttime predator, the white owl is often linked with power. The surge of power, the sudden change in personality, and the strong adaptability power you have received can sometimes be because of the teachings of a white owl. If we remember the white owl’s abilities, its rare and majestic appearance makes it worthwhile to take on any challenge.
We can face off anything that comes our way and have a stronghold of everything in our life if we can closely dive into the powerful aura given off by the white owl. We can even feel ourselves become powerful by the minute if we can borrow the survival instincts and prowess of the white owl.
Symbol of Death
Just as the appearance of the white owl can sometimes mean purity, clarity, power, etc, the same appearance can be the cause of its association with inevitable death. In some cultures, especially in cults and witchcraft, the white owl is associated with a bad omen. In these sectors, they are closely related to impending doom or failure as well.
Some of them think that the white owl takes away people’s souls to the afterlife. However, such implications are not widely acknowledged nowadays.
The white owl’s unique nature, calling, and adorable appearance make it more connected with ideas of positivity, purity, and wisdom rather than death.
Symbol of Change
White owls indicate new beginnings, change, and most of all a fresh start! This indication could be directed to your job, surroundings, education, relationship status, etc. This came from the white owl’s habit of being a nomad. Almost nothing in this species’ life is the same year after year. Their constant shift from place to place and their habit of transformation is one of their famous traits.
From habitat preference to mate preference, they change along with their mood. This is the reason why the white owl is considered a sign of change, spiritual growth, and personal transformation. Being the harbinger of inner transformation, the white owl will encourage you to start anew.
White Owl: Cultural Interpretation
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Depending on the cultural significance, the white owl’s interpretation might be something entirely different. Therefore, in this part of the article, we will introduce you to meanings from different cultures to broaden your perspective.
In Native America
In Native America, the white owl or the Snowy owl has several meanings. Predominantly, this species is associated with the afterlife. It is believed that this species works as a harbinger of the dead. The Native Americans believe that the white owl serves as a messenger between heaven and earth and the protector sent from the ancestors.
However, sometimes, these messages are seen as something negative and dark. And the Native Americans believe them to be a representation of shapeshifters.
In India
Owls, “Bakashi” as the Indian name portrays every one of its species with different meanings. Generally, owls are related to negativity and everything evil. However, the white owl is connected with the idea of good luck, positivity, and wealth. This is largely due to its connection with Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth. The goddess is depicted riding on top of an owl, henceforth, the association.
In Celtic
According to Scottish and Irish legends, the snowy owls are connected with “Beira”, a mythological hag or witch. She is a one-eyed giant who is also called the “Queen of Winter”.
Being a witch, she generally had white hair and blue skin but could shapeshift into a white owl making her surroundings snowy and cold.
For this reason in Celtic cultures, the white owl is associated with supernatural powers and sorcery. The symbolism doesn’t necessarily mean something bad in this culture, but rather something spiritual and sacred.
In Mexico
The legendary white owl also known as “La Lechuza” all over Mexico is a popular one. According to this legend, La Lechuza was a witch or bruja who could shapeshift whenever necessary. It is said that the witch used to prey on the weak and cause havoc and the cry of this bird will lure you out to take out your soul.
In Ancient Rome
In Ancient Rome, the white owl was often found in various talismans or artwork used to ward off negativity and evil spirits. This came from the white owls’ ability to see and hunt during both day and night. They also believed that because of this quality, they would take away the souls of mortal men. Henceforth, they were considered sacred creatures as well.
In Chinese and Japanese Culture
If you are visiting China or Japan, or you live in these countries and come across the white owl then you are literally in luck. Because in both of these cultures, the white owl is linked with good luck, fortune, and wealth, especially in Japan.
The word for “owl” in Japanese is “Fukuro” which comes from the term “fuku” meaning luck. Moreover, there’s a superstition that if you see a white owl flying then you can wish for anything by ringing a bell nine times.
Furthermore, the native Ainu people from Japanese folklore saw owls in general being associated with God. Hence if you have seen one get ready to receive some good news.
In Ancient Egypt
In Ancient Egypt, the white owl was linked with the idea of knowledge, healing, magic, and wisdom. This is primarily because of the Egyptian Goddess, Isis. This goddess was believed to be a shapeshifter who could transform into an owl when needed. She was the goddess of healing and magic who shapeshifted and taught the mortals lessons.
White Owl As Dreams
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If you ever dream of a species then you know that these dreams can come in different forms. Depending on these forms the meanings can vary. Hence we have collected a few of the variations and their interpretation.
Seeing A White Owl
Seeing a white owl in your dream can cater to the same thing as seeing one in real life. It means that slowly but surely you are becoming capable and you are being aware of your capabilities.
Their association with wisdom and change, in general, can be one of the interpretations of seeing a white owl in your dream as well. This type of encounter indicates the ability to gain wisdom and knowledge in the future. Moreover, you can expect certain transitions or it can be interpreted as your own desire for change in your everyday life as well.
Seeing A Dead White Owl
The tragic sighting of a dead white owl in dreams can feel like a bad omen. And the interpretation is not quite the opposite. Dreams of this nature denote the expectation of encountering something bad that happens in the future or is happening at this very moment that your subconscious is trying to communicate. This might be your intuition trying to warn you about something. So do remember to heed your subconscious.
White Owl Sitting
White owls are a sign of reserved nature with a hint of adventure and continuous change. However, watching a white owl sitting indicates for you to take things slow. Rather than being restless and looking for the next thing, watching a white owl sitting is usually interpreted as letting go and being cautious of unnecessary conflicts.
Talking White Owl
White owls are usually symbolized as the messengers of wisdom and change. Hence, from this belief, talking white owl could be interpreted as your need to gain insight into some issues in your life and gain perspective. Another interpretation is you might need or expect spiritual growth or transformation.
Angry White Owl
There are times when our subconscious mind is more aware of our feelings than the conscious one. Seeing an angry white owl in your dream could be an indication of such a feeling. It is usually an indication of anger and discriminatory feeling. You might need to work on these feelings and focus on clarifying the misunderstanding or mistreatment.
Injured White Owl
Have you been feeling hurt lately and coincidentally have been seeing an injured white owl? Then I can ensure that it is not a coincidence. This is your cue to tend to your hurt soul. This could also be a sign that you will be facing betrayal in the future but will be able to gather your self-confidence and trust due to your strong sense of self.
Baby White Owls
Watching a baby owl in your dream can be interpreted as your sudden impulsive nature. It means that you are jumping off of something and hopping around without knowing exactly what you are doing. This can either mean that you are being courageous or a warning to be cautious.
White Owl Chirping
One common interpretation of white owl chirping is the assurance of being alright. If you are going through a tough time then seeing this might indicate that time will change everything and the tough times will be gone. Your days will be as delightful as the callings of the white owl and there’s definitely a chance of turning the rough times into something good. So have faith in yourself and embark upon your journey.
Approached By White Owl
The interpretation of your dream varies based on the circumstances you are facing in your life. Given that being wise is linked with the white owl, if you are approached by one in your dream then it might indicate that you are soon to be met with your spiritual guide. You can expect this person to be kind with proper guidance, support, and navigation.
Getting Attacked By White Owl
Have you had any changes in your life lately? Or are you about to expect some changes? Then you might see yourself getting attacked by white owls in your dreams. It might indicate that there would be some kind of major life-changing experience as well. This can be a hint from your subconscious mind to accept new changes as well.
Holding A White Owl In My Hands
If you ever dream of holding a white owl in your hands then it might mean that you need to gain control over something in your life. It could also mean that someone is trying to have their control over you. This could also be a sign that you are feeling exposed and vulnerable.
What Does It Mean To Have White Owl As A Spirit Animal?
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It’s almost every introverted individual’s lifelong desire to camouflage themselves in parties when their social batteries run out. And the white owls have just that. This species’ super white appearance makes it hard for anyone to spot them in the midst of snow.
If your spirit animal is the white owl, it can only mean you have achieved this power. Despite this tendency to not hide oneself, the person with this species as their spirit animal is believed to be adventurous and spontaneous.
This type of person often is in search of something new and enjoyable and gets easily bored. They are famous for their hint of silliness and humorous nature in their reserved and graceful personality.
The white owl as a spirit animal will invoke all kinds of fun aspects in the individual’s personality and fill them with new motivation every step of the way.
FAQ
The different aspects of the White Owl’s meaning might still leave you with a lot of questions on your mind. So, in this part, I am here with the answers to some frequently asked questions to help you out.
Q: Is White Owl good for home?
Ans: According to the scriptures, the White Owl is associated with promises and auspiciousness in the person’s future. Hence, keeping it in the house is close to keeping good luck in your home.
Q: What does a White Owl tattoo mean?
Ans: The tattoo of a White Owl can either mean that you are a Harry Potter fan or a strong presence of duality such as “good versus evil”, “life versus death” etc. This species has a diverse cultural, symbolic, and religious background making them special in the case of tattoo designs.
Q: What does a White Owl represent as a power animal?
Ans: The White Owl or the Snowy Owl can thrive in any bleak weather and easily be active both night and day. Hence, it is associated with strong adaptability power. People who have White Owls as their power animal can adapt to any situation and be ready to take on any kind of challenge.
Thoughts
Since the beginning of time, White Owl meanings have been associated with different aspects surrounding our daily life.
Almost every possible meaning of this dignified species, from its symbolism to dream interpretations has been included in the article to give you a peak at the mesmerizing world of this species.
All you have to do is pay a bit of close attention to your surroundings to venture through your inner thoughts and get a better understanding of the world’s symbolisms and how it affects your world.
You might feel doubts creeping into you, find answers you have been looking for all your life, find freedom, and gain wisdom or power. The options are limitless.
I hope this article has somehow helped you in your journey through life and aspire you to find yourself and look at the world a bit differently than before.
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