by Last Updated on July 10, 2022 by Avia
Fox Animal Symbolism and Fox Totem Meanings
Fox Animal Symbolism and Meaning: There is a good reason for the old adage: “clever as a fox”. In truth, these creatures are extremely clever, and remarkably resourceful. From hunting strategies to camouflage – the fox gets about the business of living life with sass and class. What’s more, the fox is a jaunty critter.
Observe them in the wild, and you can’t help but think everything is a big joke for the fox, and their whole world a playground.
Many myths (Native American comes to mind) designate the fox as a jester or trickster, as you will read further in this article.
Whatever has brought you to this page of fox animal symbolism – I hope you come away from this article with new insight into this uncommon, lively beastie.
Table of Contents
Fox Symbolism and Myth and Lore
In China, fox animal symbolism revolved around the afterlife. Lore has it that a fox sighting was thought to be a signal from the spirits of the deceased.
Fox animal symbolism takes a turn of intelligence in the Celtic realm, as the Celts believed the fox to be a guide, and was honored for its wisdom. The Celts understood the fox knows the woods intimately, and they would rely upon the fox as their guide in the spirit world.
When it comes to summarizing the fox’s symbolic personality, I like this quote from Stephen Hawking…
“Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change.”
~Stephen Hawking
In Japan, the fox was considered one of the rain spirits, and a messenger of Inari the rice god. Here the fox also symbolizes longevity and protection from evil.
In Native American lore, fox animal symbolism deals with two interpretations. One perspective (Northern tribes) observes the fox as a wise and noble messenger. The other (Plains tribes) views the fox as a trickster playing pranks, or worse – luring one to demise.
Overwhelmingly, cultural consensus on fox animal symbolism deals with themes like…
Key Fox Symbolism and Meanings
Here are a few keywords that sum up fox symbolism.
- Wisdom
- Cunning
- Strategy
- Cleverness
- Adaptability
- Quick-thinking
It is noteworthy to observe the fox while it is on the hunt. We see its entire body is pointed like an arrow – straight and tightly aimed. This is a symbolic message for us to set a determined, and powerfully focused mindset in order to “hit the target” of our desires.
Red Fox Meaning – Solar Attributes
Even though the fox is a nocturnal creature, it has solar (sun) symbolism. Given this, the fox is a reminder to balance the light and dark within ourselves. Symbolically, this nocturnal behavior of the fox coupled with its solar affiliations should prompt us to find equilibrium, and harmony between life-themes such as: Good vs evil, Light vs dark, Life vs death, etc.
The color red in the fox is representative of a solar emblem. What do I mean by that? Simple, the red fox is metaphorically aligned with the sun. In countless legends and myths, the fox and the sun are closely connected. As a solar emblem the fox animal symbolism deals with:
- Desire
- Passion
- Intensity
- Expression
Fox and Trickster Associations
The fox may have a reputation as a trickster in many myths, but this critter doesn’t joke around when it comes to executing clever strategies for survival.
The fox encourages us to think outside of the box and use our intelligence in different, creative ways. The fox also brings us a message to try to approach our circumstances differently than we normally would. Be aware of some of our habits, and try a different angle of action.
The fox also a reminder that we must utilize all of our resources (seen and unseen) in order to accomplish our goals.
Sometimes this means calling upon some unorthodox methods. Furthermore, the fox is a sign to be mindful of our surroundings.
Phenomenally effective shape-shifters and incredibly adaptable, the fox beckons us to not make too many waves but rather, adapt to our surroundings, blend into it, and use our surroundings (and circumstances) to our advantage.
Other generalized fox symbolic meanings deal with…
Qualities Of The Fox Totem
Focus
Right-action
Determination
“Being clever is when you look at how things were and used the evidence to work out something new.”
~ Mark Haddon
FAQs About Fox Symbolism
The symbolic meaning of seeing a fox can imply quite a few things. For instance, it could be a sign that you need to pay closer attention to your surroundings. This is especially true if you are looking for clues and resources to solve problems in your life. The fox asks us to be clever and aware in order to capture the best opportunities life offers. A fox sighting might also be an encouragement to incorporate more fun and play into your everyday life.
The fox might be your spirit animal if you have a naturally good sense of humor, and tend to look at things from a unique perspective. You might also connect with fox energy if you approach problems with unusual or unorthodox solutions. As an animal totem, the fox resonates with people who appreciate the adage “work smarter, not harder.” Additionally, fox people are highly creative, intutive and energetic. If you connect with the fox, you’re probably incredibly observant. Not much gets past your awareness or intellectual grasp.
In many cultures, the fox is considered extremely good luck. In many Eastern ways of thought, the fox is a sign of good fortune, promotions in career, or even a sign of money coming in on the horizon. In many Native American stories, the fox is a protector, and it is lucky to see one because it indicates safety on the journey through life. Numerous cultures around the world view the fox as lucky because they are believed to carry the spirits of powerful ancestors.
The spiritual meaning of the fox differs depending upon which spiritual resource you consult. Some beliefs indicate that the spiritual meaning of the fox deals with passion, joy, energy, and constancy in faith. In many cultures, the fox is considered a spiritual guide to humans, showing them the way to valuable resources (spiritual and physical). As mentioned, many faiths believe the fox is either a messenger or the embodiment of the spirit/souls of ancient and powerful family ancestors.
Dreams are subjective, and dreaming of the fox will mean something different for you than anyone else. However, a fox dream could indicate that your subconscious is telling you that there is some kind of trickery going on in your life. The fox is a nocturnal creature in the wild. However, symbolically, the fox has solar connotations. In a dream, this could mean that you need to seek clarity (seek the light) in order to expose darkness (the unknowns) in life. Maybe someone isn’t being honest with you (or you’re not being honest with yourself). A fox in your dream might also indicate that it’s time to go “on the prowl” for something you’ve been dreaming about in your waking life.
The Last Word on Symbolic Fox Meaning
It should be clear from this summary that fox animal symbolism goes far beyond what we may see on the surface. On the contrary, the fox has an incredible amount of knowledge and wisdom to share with us if/when we are willing to be still for the teachings.
Spend some meditative time with the spirit of the fox – odds are you will be amazed at the powerful insight this regal creature has to offer you.
If you found these fox symbol meanings helpful on your path, you may also be interested in the symbolic meanings of the coyote.
Don’t miss my page on Fox Tattoo Ideas here.
In closing, I hope you enjoyed these thoughts on fox animal symbolism. Be sure to click the in-site links in this article for more animal symbolism. As always, thanks for reading!
May all your fox encounters be invigorating and insightful.
Mighty brightly,
© Copyrighted. All Rights Reserved.
Deepen Your Connection With Your Animal Totems With These Amazon Selections
Other Articles of Interest on This Website
Fox Meaning as a Celtic Zodiac Sign
When it comes to the Celtic zodiac sign of the fox, I love this quote by M.C. Escher: “My work is a game. A very serious game.” Get more about the meaning of Fox Celtic zodiac signs here.
Symbolic Meaning of the Red Fox
ed fox symbolism is akin to the sun, so we’re talking about: Radiance, Energy, Passion. Red is the color of instinct, and raw motivation with the fox. Learn more about red fox meanings here.
