Hummingbird symbolism is an important aspect of the relationship between spirituality and the animal kingdom. Not only are hummingbirds some of the only birds that can fly backward while doing their job to pollinate plants, but they are also known for their speed, unique beauty, and wit.
What Does a Hummingbird Symbolize?
- Power enclosed in a small package.
- Self-care and rest.
- Seeing a hummingbird may be a reminder to evaluate your inner strength.
- A hummingbird can be a symbol of resilience and joy.
- Hummingbirds are playful and creative.
- Lightness, unbounded energy
7 Hummingbird Symbols and Spiritual Meanings
1. Native American
In Native American lore, the hummingbird is sent to hunters and warriors to remind them of their innate strength. Sometimes, they were sent as a healer or comfort to a wounded warrior.
2. Celtic Mythology
In Celtic cultures, the hummingbird is a messenger between the gods and the mortals. Many believe that these small birds carried holy prophecies from the heavens to those below.
3. Asian Cultures
The hummingbird was a symbol of happiness and wealth in Asian cultures. So, encountering a hummingbird was a good omen that could bring you good fortunes in the year to come. The hummingbird is depicted as positive chi in the feng shui world.
4. European Traditions
Much of European traditions come from Christianity, and they tend to symbolize the hummingbird the same way as the Bible does. Hummingbird symbolism is seen as a sign of pending death but also a reminder that death isn’t the end and is instead the beginning of eternity.
5. Mexico/Aztec Culture
In ancient Aztec culture, the hummingbird was a specific god by the name Huitzilopochtli, and he governs the sun and war. Spotting a hummingbird would indicate that a dying warrior was about to be reborn.
6. Hinduism
In Hinduism, a hummingbird is sent as a sign of happiness and a reminder to stay hopeful. Many also believe seeing a hummingbird means springtime is just around the corner.
7. Buddhism
In the Buddhist religion, spotting a hummingbird is a sign that you need to be content with what you have and let go of your want for more. It also reminds the viewer to look inside for happiness rather than basing happiness on external factors.
What is a Hummingbird?
Hummingbirds are the world’s smallest birds. In fact, some species of hummingbirds are so small that they look more like large bugs. They come in many different colors and have a long beak that is used to drink nectar from flowers.
Hummingbird Totem Animal
The hummingbird is your animal totem if you share almost all the qualities listed above with the hummingbird within your soul. A totem animal is an animal that you find a kindred spirit with whom you allow your spirit to be guided.
If a hummingbird is your totem animal, it means your soul is ripe with hidden power. In fact, you are a strong, individualistic person who enjoys life to the fullest.
Additionally, you are likely great at adapting to new surroundings and are joyful in your everyday life. In many Native American tribes, those with the hummingbird totem animal are healers and may carry messages from the gods.
Hummingbird Spirit Animal
If the hummingbird is your spirit animal, it appears to you if your soul needs guidance. Similar to an animal totem, if you have a spirit animal, this is an animal you see frequently, which may appear to you at times if you ask for guidance in your life.
Pros of a Hummingbird Spirit Animal
- Joyful
- Adventurous
- Resilient
- Strong
- Feisty
- Graceful
- Creative
- Positive
Cons of a Hummingbird Spirit Animal
- Hyperactive
- Flighty
- Undisciplined
- Never satisfied
- Distracted
- Always going from task to task
- Difficulty focusing
Hummingbird Symbolism and Death
Hummingbird symbolism relates to death if you find a dead hummingbird. It can be a sad and harrowing experience. However, there is great meaning in the symbolism of this bird’s death.
A dead hummingbird is a message from the spirit world. In fact, it is a message that it is time to renew and transform your life. It may also be a reminder to celebrate your freedom and to search for inner peace in a way you haven’t considered previously.
What Does a Hummingbird Symbolize in the Bible?
In the Bible, the hummingbird is a symbol of eternity because of the unique pattern of flapping its wings. Hummingbirds are flapping their wings in a figure-eight shape constantly to keep them afloat, which represents infinity and continuity.
What Does Seeing a Hummingbird in Your Dreams Mean?
Seeing a hummingbird in your dreams means the appearance is to remind you of one of your shared attributes and to guide you through a difficult decision. For those familiar with hummingbirds, they typically appear in your dream to let you know that the next time you find yourself at a crossroads, ask yourself how a hummingbird would handle the situation, and this is likely your solution.
But interpreting dreams is tricky, and before you dive into your dream about a hummingbird, take a moment to decide what attributes you share with a hummingbird. If you don’t share a lot of characteristics with a hummingbird, it may have appeared in your dream to let you know that you need to learn about them and their way of life.
How to Interpret a Hummingbird Encounter
If you encounter a hummingbird, take a moment, and observe what it is doing. If you are able to do so, meditate directly after observing the hummingbird. During your meditation, review the actions of the hummingbird and how they may impact your own life.
If you can’t find a connection, then it may be that the hummingbird appears to let you know that you need to undergo a transformation to understand life better. A hummingbird encounter is almost always positive, usually a symbol that you shall receive blessings in the future or that good luck is coming your way.