Raven Black Onyx (Purple Eye)

RAVEN

Raven is the keeper of secrets. It is mystical and magical. It is introspective and courageous. It encourages us to dive deeper to gain understanding of the world. It evokes creation and rebirth.

Raven is an all-black passerine bird that exists all over the northern hemisphere. It is an omnivore known for its high intelligence and problem solving ability. It has one of the largest brains of any bird. It has been known to invent to solve problems. It travels in mated pairs although young birds sometimes flock until they mate. It has been used in human legend and mythology throughout time. It has frequently been seen as an omen of bad luck but also as a messenger of the gods. In Norse mythology, two ravens Huginn, which means thought, and Muninn, which means mind, fly over the Earth to gain information that they then take back to Odin. Among Native American tribes, Raven is a symbol of transformation and change, a creature of metamorphosis. It is also sometimes seen as a trickster. The Pacific Northwestern tribes have many versions of creation that involve Raven. Raven is seen as the creator of the world and bringer of light, but also a selfish childish trickster. In Siberian culture, Raven is the god Kutcha and is involved in the creation of the world. In ancient Greece, Raven was associated with Apollo, the god of prophecy. In Hebrew tradition, Noah released the Raven which did not return signaling the end of the flood. In Islamic tradition, Raven taught Cain how to bury his brother. In India, the deity Shanu is mounted on a Raven. It also appears in art and literature throughout history.  Edgar Allan Poe’s most famous poem, The Raven, which depicted Raven as prophetic, had great impact on nineteenth century literature. Ravens appear in J.R.R. Tolkien’s trilogy as messengers of doom or spies.

A Raven totem brings playfulness and creativity. It is wise and comfortable in all matters spiritual. It can bring messages from the spirit world to others. It is naturally inventive and has great magical ability. It is transformative but also mischievous. One with the Raven totem will have great courage and no fear of the dark. The Raven totem will help to develop the inner shaman. It is will aid in bringing karmic memories to mind.

A Raven dream or vision may be a sign that magic is coming into your life. It may signal a change of consciousness. It may also be a warning of misfortune. If Raven caws to you in a dream, you should take notice of the world around you and look for the change that will come.