Do you need to clear and cleanse toxic relationships, habits and baggage from your life? Are you on the verge of developing your psychic awareness? If so, take to the skies and soar with Buzzard and Vulture energy.
Archaeological digs in Turkey have revealed Vulture frescoes. In them, this great bird carries the soul of the dead into the next world. Shamans were also illustrated taking Vulture form so they could journey between the realms safely. There is a story in this region about how Vulture once saved Muhammad from the claws of a golden eagle. For this service, Vulture was given white feathers, representing his bravery.
The Spiritual Meaning of Vultures in Ancient Cultures
The Quran mentions a pre-Islamic god by the name of Nasr, which means vulture. Nasr was worshipped during the time of Noah. Ancient Hebrews, seeing that these birds always appeared in pairs, associated Vulture with love and commitment.
Assyrian myths tell us that Vulture is a descendant of the great Griffin, who oversees the mysteries of death and life. Greeks sometimes carried a vulture claw as an amulet against poison in food and beverages.
Vultures were sacred to the Pharaohs of Egypt, being called Pharoh’s Hen. She was the embodiment of the Feminine Principle of the universe. This connection was so strong that Nekhbet, Goddess of Upper Egypt was said to have the head of a Vulture and her wings spread, a sign of protection.
The mention of the pre-Islamic god Nasr in the Quran sheds light on the significance of vultures in ancient cultures. Vultures have been revered and worshipped in various civilizations for their symbolic meanings. Here are some spiritual meanings associated with vultures:
1. Symbol of Love and Commitment
In ancient Hebrew beliefs, vultures were seen as symbols of love and commitment. This association stemmed from the observation that vultures always appeared in pairs. The image of vultures flying together symbolized a strong bond and partnership, reflecting the values of loyalty and unity.
2. Guardian of Mysteries of Life and Death
Assyrian myths depict vultures as descendants of the great Griffin, a mythical creature that oversaw the mysteries of life and death. Vultures were believed to have a connection to the spiritual realm and were seen as guardians of the transition between life and death. Their presence served as a reminder of the cyclical nature of existence and the importance of embracing both ends of the spectrum.
3. Protection Against Harm
Greeks carried vulture claws as amulets to protect themselves against poisoning in food and beverages. The vulture’s association with protection against harm stemmed from its perceived ability to ward off evil forces and negative influences. By wearing vulture claws, individuals believed they could shield themselves from dangers and maintain their well-being.
4. Symbol of Feminine Principle
In ancient Egypt, vultures were considered sacred to the Pharaohs and were referred to as “Pharaoh’s Hen.” The vulture symbolized the embodiment of the Feminine Principle of the universe, representing qualities such as nurturing, intuition, and creativity. Nekhbet, the Goddess of Upper Egypt, was often depicted with the head of a vulture and her wings spread, symbolizing protection and divine guidance.
5. Connection to Spiritual Realms
Vultures were often associated with spiritual realms and higher consciousness in various cultures. Their ability to soar high in the sky and see from great distances represented a connection to the heavens and divine wisdom. In many traditions, vultures were seen as messengers between the earthly realm and the spiritual world, guiding individuals on their spiritual journey.
6. Representation of Renewal and Rebirth
The scavenging nature of vultures, feeding on decaying flesh, symbolized the process of renewal and rebirth in ancient beliefs. Vultures played a crucial role in the ecosystem by cleaning up dead animals and recycling nutrients back into the earth. Their presence signified the cycle of life, death, and regeneration, emphasizing the importance of letting go of the old to make way for the new.
One Bible verse that resonates with the spiritual meanings of vultures is Proverbs 30:17:
“The eye that mocks a father and despises a mother’s instructions will be plucked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures.”
This verse highlights the consequences of disrespect and disobedience, using the imagery of vultures as a symbol of divine judgment and retribution. Just as vultures are swift to seize upon their prey, so too will the consequences of one’s actions come swiftly upon them.
Through the lens of biblical stories and cultural symbolism, the spiritual meanings of vultures offer a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world. Each aspect of vulture symbolism reflects timeless truths about love, protection, wisdom, and renewal that continue to resonate with believers and seekers of spiritual enlightenment.
Seeing Black Vultures Meaning
Vultures are masters of the winds and have strong ties to the Air Element. These impressive birds seem to float for hours on end, catching various air currents as high as 15,0000 feet up, until they are ready to descend for snacks. Vultures teach us the value of patience. In their world, there is no need to rush their choice. Remember, Vulture does not kill. It simply collects what is already dead, and death is inevitable.
From their lofty perspective, the Turkey Vulture, in particular, depends on their sense of smell. Each breeze brings them closer to a food source. Their nose is so acute as to even be able to locate hidden carcasses under leaves or twigs. Keeping our sensual cues open is part of Vulture Medicine.
Each morning Vultures greet the dawn by unfurling their wings, giving them solar associations. While Vulture certainly isn’t the most handsome of fellows yet they are graceful and awe-inspiring. This behavior has a second important function – it kills bacteria that remains after eating.
Zoroastrians gave bodies of the deceased to the Vulture as a type of burial. This was considered a very honorable ritual. Vulture represented renewal and revitalization, so the soul was insured of moving forward in their spiritual progression.
Egyptians had a mother Goddess, Mut, whose sacred bird was a Vulture. This may seem odd until you understand that Vultures are very protective over their young. In this setting Vulture not only embodied maternal instinct but also safety.
Romans and Greeks had similar respect for Vulture. Saturn, the God of justice, rode a Vulture. She was also sacred to both Mars, the God of war, and Apollo, the greater God of prophecy. It’s no wonder that Vulture was among the birds used for Augury.
Vultures can eat rotten meat that is wholly toxic to other creatures; thus, they do the world a great service. Vulture’s sense of smell is so refined they can find a dead animal over a mile away, relating to heightened prescription and psychic awareness. When in danger, Vulture will vomit. This lightens their body for faster flying and relates to the need to cleanse baggage from your path.
Among Native Americans, Vulture is often the bearer of omens. Shamans observe their flight patterns in determine what weather lies ahead. These birds also represent duality: our spiritual nature and our body, heaven and earth, stagnation and action.
In Mexico, the Mayan felt that Vulture could consume death and convert that energy into life. This gave them the symbolic value of transformation. They also felt the Vulture Spirit controlled life-giving rains.
What Does It Mean When Vultures Circle Your House?
The spiritual meaning of vultures circling your house can be multifaceted. In many cultures, vultures circling a dwelling can be seen as a sign of impending death or negative energies. However, from a spiritual perspective, their presence can offer different interpretations.
In the Bible, birds circling can be seen as a sign of divine protection. In Exodus 19:4, it states, “I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself.” This verse suggests that when birds, including vultures, circle your house, it can symbolize God’s watchful eye and divine protection surrounding you and your home.
When vultures circle your house, it may also indicate that there are negative energies or patterns in your life that need to be cleansed and released. It can be a reminder to ground yourself, clear your energy, and establish spiritual boundaries to create a sense of safety and harmony in your living environment.
Overall, the spiritual meaning of a turkey vulture and other vultures goes beyond their association with death and decay. They serve as messengers, urging us to embrace transformation, face our fears, and seek spiritual purification. The biblical references and symbolism associated with vultures further deepen the insight into their spiritual meaning, guiding us on our journey towards wholeness and connection with the divine.
Spiritual Meaning of Turkey Vultures
The symbolism of turkey vulture reminds you to ride the currents of warmth in your own life. Allow yourself to benefit from what life has to offer and let go of the need to work so hard. Let life bring you warmth and sustenance. The currents will carry you where you need to go.
In many Native American traditions, the turkey vulture’s spiritual meaning is believed to bring messages of change and transformation. It is also seen as a symbol of purification and cleansing, as it helps to clean up the earth and remove negativity.
In this case, Vulture symbolism is asking you to be patient with yourself and think things through. Thus, like Cassowary and Goat, you should take your time before making decisions. Furthermore, the spirit animal is letting you know that you must choose paths that support your higher consciousness and your heart. In other words, use all of your resources and combine them with your experiences of the past. This method is the best way to approach the problem from a different angle. Therefore, vulture means letting you know that you are always free to choose your path, but be flexible while moving forward.
Moreover, Vulture symbolism reminds you to allow yourself to use all of your senses to navigate through this situation for your highest benefit. In other words, call on all your resources to get the job done.
Alternatively, this bird recognizes that you are fiercely protective of those for whom you feel responsible. However, you must understand that knowing when to allow others to sink or swim is essential too. Thus, you must recognize the need for higher awareness in all those around you.
Vulture Totem, Spirit Animal
People with the Vulture totem know how to use their energy powerfully and efficiently. Like the Rattlesnake totem, they can also see auras and colors around people with their higher vision. Folks with this spirit animal totem know how to use patience as a means to an end. They can quickly go with the flow of those around them and yet are fiercely protective of those for whom they feel responsible. People with this power animal have keen insight into most situations.
Vulture Dream Interpretation
When you have a Vulture dream, it symbolizes purification and insight. Moreover, the vision suggests that your past experiences will provide you with invaluable insight into a current situation or problem. In other words, take the time to learn from your past.
Alternatively, like the Mosquito, this scavenger indicates that you or someone close to you is being opportunistic. In other words, someone is watching you and is waiting for you to take a misstep. It may also be that you feel that someone is taking advantage of you or is using you. Therefore you should consider the metaphor of someone who is a “Vulture.” This bird can also be a symbol of death, doom, or rebirth.