by Last Updated on February 25, 2023 by Avia
Symbolic Elephant Meaning: They say big things come in small packages…but that’s not altogether true. Often very wonderful stuff comes in very big packages. Like the elephant. Like its body weight, this creature has tons of meaningful insight to share with us. She speaks to us in terms of sensitivity, loyalty and determination. The elephant is a superior guide when we are on a journey that requires our patience and devotion.
Symbolic elephant meaning deals primarily with strength, honor, stability and tenacity, among other attributes.
Table of Contents
Prime Symbolic Elephant Meaning Keywords
- Pride
- Power
- Dignity
- Royalty
- Reliability
Elephant Meaning in Cultural Symbolism
To the Hindu way of thought, the elephant is found in the form of Ganesha who is the god of luck, fortune, protection and is a blessing upon all new projects. Ganesha in all his magnificently vibrant elephant glory, is intent on bulldozing obstacles on your behalf (in fact, male elephants are termed “bulls“).
In Christian symbolism the elephant is an icon of temperance, patience, and chastity.
As a Chinese symbol, the elephant is considered a symbol of:
- Happiness
- Longevity
- Good luck
Some Asian cultures also believe the elephant is a cosmic creature, and carries the world upon its back (much like the tortoise does in some tribal Native American myths). This is yet another nod to the power and persistence in the symbolic meaning of elephants.
Elephants in Dreams
As a dream animal, elephants come into our dreams it is a message that we are able to deal with any obstacle we are faced with at this time. Dream elephants represent power, sovereignty, stability, and stead-fastness. If you dream that you are riding an elephant this suggests you have a tendency to be the leader of the family, and others are heavily dependent on you. If you dream of elephants in a circus this suggests you have a cavalier attitude about a situation in your life and you may want to invest more attention to it.
“We admire elephants in part because they demonstrate what we consider the finest human traits: empathy, self-awareness, and social intelligence.”
Graydon Carter
Elephant Meaning as an Animal Totem
We gather more symbolic meaning of elephant guides by observing it in nature. Specifically, the elephant is considered a symbol of responsibility because it takes great care and responsibility of its offspring as well as their elders.
The elephant as a totem encourages protection, strength and strong bonds with loved ones in our lives.
The elephant also has immense determination and loyalty – always standing up for others and always defending members of the group in its natural habitat.
Furthermore, elephants express advanced sensitivity and social connection, particularly during time of death – they travel to a specific place upon their death – fulfilling personal responsibility – even at the end of their days.
How the Elephant Can Empower Your Life
So what can we take away from all these tidbits about the elephant? I think we can get behind a sense of being steadfast. In fact, the elephant is great energy to call upon when we are on an arduous path. Even better, elephants will help us keep our calm during those rocky roads on our path.
There is no doubt no matter what journey you are on, there will be some bumps along the way. The methodical, plodding energy of the elephant can help you muscle through those snags on your path. Also, elephant energy can assist with keeping your cool when times get tough.
The elephant is pretty mellow. That is, unless you mess with her babies or the herd. Otherwise, she is slow to anger. This is a big help for us hot-heads out there (me included) who need a strong, calming force when things go awry. Get in-step with solid, reliable, stable elephant energy. Ask elephant for guidance as you move through your days. She will be generous with her gifts and helpful on your way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elephant Meaning
The elephant symbolizes long life, prosperity, and good fortune in many Eastern cultures. For instance, in India, the elephant god Ganesha is considered to be a good luck god, and a remover of obstacles. The Chinese practice of Feng Shui establishes the elephant as a symbol of good fortune, wisdom, and protection.
Dreams tell a different story for different dreamers. An elephant dream could be the psyche reaching back to that old adage, “the elephant in the room.” Meaning, a dream elephant could be a sign that there is something big in your life that needs to be addressed. Elephants in dreams are also symbolic of loyalty, friendship, community, and family. Dreaming of elephants may also be your consciousness telling you it’s time to establish more balance in your life.
A tattoo is meant to convey characteristics that we appreciate or want for ourselves. So, an elephant tattoo can be symbolic of elephant traits such as: Intelligence, nobility, majesty, power, good luck, family, connection, dignity, and wisdom. Elephant tattoos might also be a symbol of memory or memorial.
The Last Word on Elephant Meaning
Learn more about elephant meaning on my Chakra Animal page here.
Are you into ink? I’ve also written some elephant meanings for tattoo ideas here.
I hope you enjoyed these symbolic meanings of the elephant. To be sure, she is a giant of generosity. Try a visual meditation of the elephant and see what happens. I’m willing to bet, the elephant will present her power to you, and guide you on the path you seek. Thanks for reading!
May all your energetic elephant encounters be uplifting.
Mighty brightly,
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