Foxes are cunning tricksters in folklore and symbolize escape, fear, and the hunt. They represent being trapped or in trouble in a foxhole. Foxes can also symbolize sex appeal and attractiveness. Negative connotations arise from their association with predators. On the positive side, they symbolize fire, warmth, passion, communication, adaptability, and family.
1. Fox symbol
a. Christianity symbolism
b. Eastern Symbolism
In Japanese mythology, foxes, known as kitsune, hold significant importance. They are associated with magic, mystery, and power, often appearing as shapeshifters with incredible intelligence. Kitsune use their abilities to punish the greedy and wicked, employing illusions, fire, monsters, and magic to trick and humiliate their victims.
Foxes are also closely tied to the Shinto god Inari, who is the deity of rice and protector of rice cultivation. Inari is a major harvest god and a benevolent figure, associated with prosperity and fortune. Foxes are often depicted as guardians of Inari's shrines and messengers of the god, reflecting their connection to benevolence and protection.
c. Celtic symbolism
The fox holds significance in Irish culture due to its association with Saint Brigid, the patroness saint of Ireland. Brigid's gentle nature and affinity for animals led to her connection with the fox. In a legend, Brigid saves a workman from execution for accidentally killing the king of Leinster's pet fox. She charms a small fox she encounters in the woods and uses its tricks to persuade the king to spare the workman. In another myth, foxes are said to have been introduced to Ireland by Viking raiders as hunting hounds, although this is unlikely. These stories contribute to the folklore surrounding foxes in Ireland.
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The Arctic fox |
d. Native American symbolism
The fox holds different roles in Native American myths. It can be a benevolent creator and guide or a cunning trickster. In Cree mythology, the fox is a wise spirit that helps a young hero escape his father. Foxes are also associated with family, fire, the sun, and traits like cunning and magic.
e. African symbolism
In West African mythology, the fox represents disorder, loneliness, cunning, and foresight. Pale Fox, a figure in Dogon mythology, was born without his twin sister, lacking balance and capable of upsetting the world's equilibrium.
2. Fox in dreams, folklore, and mythology
Dreaming of a fox can symbolize various meanings. It may represent longing and elusive goals, urging a change in approach and a more subtle pursuit. It can also signify confusion or uncertainty, reflecting struggles to understand something or being perplexed by others' actions. Additionally, a fox dream may symbolize the desire for freedom and a break from routine, suggesting the need for spontaneity and a connection with wild spaces.
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The fennec fox |
Foxes are often depicted in myths as cunning tricksters or representatives of the wilderness. In Aesop's Fables, the fox is portrayed as a mischievous character who often faces consequences for tormenting other animals. For instance, in "The Fox and the Crane," the fox tricks the crane by serving soup in a shallow dish, which the crane cannot eat due to its long beak. The crane responds with grace and invites the fox to dinner the next day. However, the crane serves the food in a bottle with a narrow neck, allowing only the crane to eat while the fox can only lick the outside.
3. Fox encounters, totem, and omens
4. Power and Spirit
5. Fox tattoo meaning
A fox tattoo can symbolize various meanings. For example:
- Brown fox tattoo: Adaptability and invisibility.
- Black fox tattoo: Good luck and oppressiveness.
- Red fox tattoo: Balance and inner strength.
- White fox tattoo: Persistence, stealth, and cunning.
In Japanese style, it can represent protection, justice, illusion, mystery, or benevolence.
A Celtic-themed fox tattoo can represent Ireland, gentleness, feminine virtue, devotion, or selflessness.
A running fox tattoo may indicate feeling persecuted or set upon by the world.
Reference: https://worldbirds.com/
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