Symbolic meaning of feathers
Symbolism of feathers often refers to ascension and spiritual evolution to a higher plane. Feathers were worn by Native American Chiefs to symbolize their communication with Spirit, and to express their celestial wisdom. Also in the Native American Indian culture, feathers represented the power of the thunder gods, along with the power of air and wind.
Native American Pueblo Indians would pay homage to the Feathered Sun which is a symbol of the cosmos and the center of existence. Another symbol meaning of feathers also revolves around prayer, and the Pueblo use feather sticks as they dance in prayer for rain during solstice rituals.
As a Celtic symbol meaning, the feather was worn by Druids in the form of ornate feathered robes. Celtic Druids donned these robes in ceremonies to invoke the sky gods and gain knowledge of the celestial realm. It was believed that the feathered cloak along with the presence of the sky gods would allow the Druid to transcend the earthly plane and enter the ethereal realm.
The Egyptians believed that feathers were symbolic of sky gods too. Ma’at, the Egyptian goddess of justice, would weigh the hearts of the newly dead in the underworld against the weight of a feather to determine the worthiness of his or her soul.
In Christianity feathers represented virtues. In fact, an image of three feathers were made into signet rings – each feather symbolizing charity, hope, and faith. These rings were worn as a symbol of a virtuous soul – they were also used as wax seals. The ring would be dipped in warm wax then pressed against documents to seal the closure. The recipient would know the documents came from a virtuous man by the indication of the three-feather symbol in the wax.
In dreams feathers mean travel or the ability to move more freely in life. White feathers in dreams indicate innocence or a fresh start in a spiritual sense.
*source: iVillage.co.uk
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Interesting information
08/06/2012 at 23:19
Thank you Kim! I thought so too ~ always liked feathers but didn’t know why!!
08/06/2012 at 23:34
As someone who is surrounded constantly by feathers, because all the birds shed them constantly, I find this fascinating! Thanks Robyn!
08/06/2012 at 23:36
That is right— you are exposed to sooo many feathers daily. Now bask in all the spiritual richness they symbolize. It’s funny I never knew much o this before, but always was intrigued by the feathers… and your birds — the most magnificent feathers on the planet I’lm sure xxoo
08/07/2012 at 00:02
I love learning something new…this was fascinating! I had no idea of the significance of feathers….no wonder kids are always drawn to them and want to collect them…actually a lot of adults do too!
Hugs and Love sweet friend 
08/07/2012 at 00:41
Me too Christina – I love learning – and especially symbolism! There is so much related to the cultural significance of feathers – i had no idea either
You are right – it makes sense why kids are so fascinated — and they are in the headpieces of native Indians etc. Fun to study this kind of thing while creating a blog post — never knew I’d get such an eduction through my blogging endeavors! Love to you too dear one ~ xxoo
08/07/2012 at 12:12
Then it is a very accurate discription of what comes from your always loving, sharing and embracing heart…your love! Beautiful post my sister!
08/07/2012 at 16:34
Thank you Wendell! So much appreciate!!
08/07/2012 at 17:40
This music is a great artist in my country, Santaolalla and the musical theme is called “Birds”
08/09/2012 at 23:46
Oh wow Carlos – I need to have this music on my iPod !! Can you recommend a favorite album I can order maybe through iTunes ? Was just wonderful to listen to ~ Gracias Thank you and Love~
08/10/2012 at 00:05
Ok Carlos – I went ahead and got Gustavo Sanaolalla’s album called Ronroco ~ pretty amazing — what a gift you have bestowed upon me tonight – forever grateful…you have the best taste in music!! xxoo
08/10/2012 at 00:13
Beautiful images as always and accompanied by lovely words – and now, thanks to Carlos by some beautiful music too! I love this and will also be investigating the album that you bought. Thank you both
08/20/2012 at 12:47
It’s great music… so amazing how blog friends can inspire us in so many ways!! Thank you kindly
08/20/2012 at 12:50
thanks for continuing to read…love your work too. beebeesworld
03/09/2013 at 20:35
So welcome beebee ~ and feeling is mutual. You are a talented lady indeed ~ xo RL
03/10/2013 at 00:45
Symbolism seems to be everywhere in our lives and how dare we miss it when it comes in such a beautiful form as feathers. I too love the music and it’s now part of my collection. Thank you for sharing.
03/31/2013 at 19:04
Oh I am so glad you found this old page Sheri — yes was fascinated to know about the symbolism of feathers! Always have been interested in symbolism, especially with regard to nature. Thrilled you enjoyed Carlos’ gift of tune here as well! Thinking of you with your upcoming ct surgery. Keep me posted! ~ much love, RL
04/01/2013 at 22:09
Love your new Gravatar pic Robyn!!! You never age. You look so young and pretty! Blessings to you. Robyn
04/09/2013 at 21:53
Oh thank you so much Robyn! Was being silly the other night with hubby (it’s his hat)
Was a bit shy to use it but fun for a change. Thank you for such a lovely compliment… you are too kind ~ Love and Blessings, R
04/09/2013 at 23:53
thanks for reading my blogs robyn beebee
05/09/2013 at 11:24
05/09/2013 at 11:28
Very interesting article. The Cherokee part of me is fascinated with all things Native.
05/15/2013 at 20:52
Thanks so much Barbara! I appreciate – yes so interesting to learn about the symbolism. I am amazed at how many people seem to come to this post. I guess there is a lot of interest in feathers!
~ Best wishes to you, Robyn
05/16/2013 at 18:47
Feathers have always fascinated little girls and some of us just never grow up!!
05/16/2013 at 22:11
05/16/2013 at 22:43