Spirit Animals

Native American tribes have long believed in the power of spirit animals or totems. Tribal beliefs held that these animals had lessons to teach, as well as healing or inspirational powers. Bears symbolized leadership and courage. Buffalo held the power of life. The coyote was thought to have brought survival knowledge but also death. The wolf was a great teacher, on how to build community and hunt. The raven was the trickster spirit. Wayne Arthurson writes with authority on the tradition of spirit animals and how their meaning reflects the spiritual and physical relationship between humans and Nature.