The golden eagle is a majestic creature that has captivated humans for centuries. Its powerful presence, stunning appearance, and commanding flight have made it a symbol of power, freedom, and spiritual significance. In many cultures around the world, the golden eagle holds deep symbolic meanings and is revered as a spiritual messenger. In this article, we will explore the spiritual meaning and symbolism behind the golden eagle, and uncover seven signs that may indicate a connection to this magnificent bird.
The Majestic Presence of the Golden Eagle
When we think of lions, we envision a powerful and dominant leader. In many ways, that’s how eagles are seen by humans and other animals
The golden eagle is often portrayed as wise, fierce and a fearless protector. For example, the United States of America adopted the bald eagle as its national bird based on its symbolism.
And yet, the bald eagle is the cousin to the golden eagle but far less common. The bald eagle population throughout the United States has dropped by 95 percent, but has increased by 400 percent in the last thirty years.
And so in many ways, they’re protectors of the wild.
This is similar to how eagles are regarded by Native Americans. Most tribes venerate eagles for their strength and power.
For instance, many tribes use eagle feathers in their traditional clothing and crafts. Carrying an eagle feather protects individuals and brings blessings to his or her family. If you’re ever given an eagle feather, it’s a great honor.
Additionally, some tribes have special ceremonies to honor the golden eagle. These birds are highly respected for their ability to fly high into the heavens and touch Grandfather Creator.
They also consider eagles as protectors for their role in guarding against evil spirits. In some tribes, it is said that eagles have been around since the beginning of time as part of a larger story of creation.
Eagles are also a symbol of freedom and protection for their ability to travel great distances. They soar through the skies with their powerful wings. This makes them untouchable from enemies on the ground.
Eagles are looked at as intermediary between humans and their connection with the Creator at a spiritual level. As a result, they’re also known for their ability to see beyond human vision.
It’s no wonder eagles show up in so many cultures as an important figure in folk tales from around the world.
The Symbolic Meanings of the Golden Eagle
Golden eagles have a long and storied history. They are often found in the stories and legends of many ancient societies and religions. Their presence in these stories attests to the high regard in which they were held, as well as their significance in these ancient cultures.
Below, we explore some of the most popular symbolic meanings of the golden eagle:
Honor
Every society has its own symbol of greatness. The golden eagle is one of those symbols. They are often used to represent bravery, courage, and nobility. For example, the Romans used it as a symbol for their mighty empire.
Strength
Eagles soar higher than any other bird in the sky. This ability is what makes them strong. When you see an eagle, think of it as a challenge. It serves as a reminder to look at life from different perspectives. It means that it’s time to rise above your challenges.
Freedom
One of the most popular symbolic meanings of the golden eagle is freedom. Most cultures see them as symbols of patriotism. For instance, the eagle is the national bird of the United States because it embodies freedom, pride, and independence.
Peace
While eagles are fierce hunters, they are also peaceful creatures. They are cunning but patient hunters. They wait until the right moment to strike their prey. Their peaceful coexistence with other animals is why they are used as an emblem in peacebuilding efforts.
Transcendence
Eagles hold a high position in many religious and spiritual practices around the world. They are often viewed as messengers from deity figures or as conduits to higher entities. For example, in Christianity, they are seen as a symbol of divine inspiration, whereas Native Americans believe that eagles can carry their wishes to heaven.
Wisdom
Eagles are intelligent birds. Their ability to adapt and survive in even the harshest conditions and environments takes tremendous wisdom and knowledge. In Christianity, for example, they hold a high spiritual significance and are believed to have high intelligence.
Sign #1: Powerful and Commanding Flight
What gives the golden eagle its name? From the moment they hatch from their eggs, golden eagles thrive in every sense of the word. The golden eagle migration, spanning from Northern Alaska to Mexico, can cover nearly 200 miles a day. They can reach speeds of 200 mph during mating rituals and can fly at over 20,000 feet above ground. They make use of thermals which allow them to glide easily through the air. This means that they conserve energy while on lengthy journeys.
One of our favorite parts about the eagle’s flight is how often it employs symbolic meaning. As it hunts for prey, the golden eagle demonstrates an aerial agility unlike any other. It is capable of changing its trajectory mid-flight, making it highly successful at catching its next meal. Eagles are also known for their ability to hover and they do so during their mating season courtship.
As you examine the eagle’s physical form, you’ll notice that it’s tailor made for success in the sky. For instance, its wingspan measures up to 7 feet across but it’s equally impressive in other measurements such as its tail. Eagles use their tails as rudders during flight which gives them a high degree of maneuverability.
If you’ve been considering an eagle tattoo or looking for the perfect piece of eagle jewelry, then you’re likely being called to embrace its unparalleled aerial prowess. When displayed in a talisman or accessory, the golden eagle’s wingspan offers protection and support from above.
If you see an eagle during your daily routine or any time at all take it as a sign from the universe that you too are about to soar to new heights.
Sign #2: Vision and Clarity
When an animal has the ability to fly at such great heights, it’s a given they have incredibly sharp vision. This keenness of sight has given Golden Eagles the ability to spot prey from over a mile away.
In addition to helping them catch their next meal, the eagle’s remarkable sight and long-distance vision has earned them the reputation as a powerful bird of prophecy.
People who have the golden eagle as their spirit animal may find that they are often good judges of character. They can also see through the smoke screens other people put up and recognize those who have hidden agendas.
Five minutes around most people is all it takes for these individuals to get a good handle on who they are. Even in large crowds, they can pick out the ones who are genuine and those who aren’t.
This is largely because people with the golden eagle as their spirit animal are master readers of body language. They can spot even the most subtle of non-verbal cues. Their abilities of perception are so well-honed that they do this without even realizing it.
People with this spirit animal often have a psychic-like gift. The eagle is acutely aware of what is happening around them, even if they can’t see it. These individuals can often sense problems before they happen and then take steps to correct them.
When faced with a problem an eagle will get above it so that they look down upon it. This is a perfect metaphor for those who are trying to manifest change in their lives.
The eagle tells you that before you make any decisions, you need to get a higher perspective on things. You might need to change your vantage point to see things from a different angle.
Only when you have done so will you be able to get the clarity you need to create the life you’ve always wanted for yourself and your loved ones.
Sign #3: Courage and Determination
There’s so much we can learn from the eagle, both the bird and the animal totem. If we take the time to pay attention to the signs around us, the eagle can teach us about courage and determination.
One of the many reasons eagles are revered is their ability to soar effortlessly through the sky. But eagles don’t just take flight for the sake of flying. They have a mission and they’ll do whatever it takes to achieve it.
For example, when eagles hunt, they take advantage of rising thermals to float as high as possible. The more altitude they gain, the further they can see. And when their keen eyes catch sight of prey, they fold their wings back and drop like a missile at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour.
Eagles show us that true courage isn’t fearlessness; it’s taking risks even when we’re scared. The eagle’s swift descent might seem a little reckless but it knows exactly what it’s doing. And its focus doesn’t waver from the moment it spots its prey until the moment it snatches it up.
In some cases, eagles have been known to go after prey that are several times heavier than they are. And sometimes that prey slips from their grasp only to be recaptured after a bit of a struggle.
That’s because an eagle never gives up on its prey until it gets what it wants.
In life, there will be moments when you feel like you’re not strong enough or fast enough or good enough. But if you keep pushing yourself forward with courage and determination, there’s nothing you can’t achieve.
You might not always reach your goals on the first try but that’s okay–nothing worthwhile ever comes easily. You may have to struggle but if you never give up, you’ll turn your dreams into reality.
Sign #4: Freedom and Independence
With a wingspan of up to 8 feet, the golden eagle is the largest raptor in North America. The bird’s size, strength and incredible flying speed gives it eyes to see all that lies below.
Because of its incredible hunting prowess, many Native American tribes believed the bird offered guidance to their hunters.
Golden eagles work hard for their rewards. It is exceptionally rare to find them scavenging a meal from another bird. Instead, they hunt for themselves and are not afraid to take down prey that’s larger than they are.
As such, the golden eagle is a symbol of freedom and independence.
They are fierce animals that are not afraid to go it alone. These types of traits are often associated with leaders and high achievers who are able to soar.
The golden eagle knows how to take care of itself in all circumstances. It is fiercely independent, and it is not afraid to be a lone wolf when doing so best serves it.
When the golden eagle appears in your life, it can be a great call for attention. Maybe you haven’t been taking care of yourself or managing your own well-being effectively.
The golden eagle can offer guidance on how to change that. It may be time to get out of a toxic environment or take greater ownership of your life at work or at home.
But while we talk about independence, remember that the golden eagle can also serve as a loyal friend when it chooses to be. It’s not reluctant to find support when necessary and you’ll often see multiple eagles soaring together through thermal updrafts.
Sign #5: Spiritual Messenger and Sign of Divinity
In the Sioux tribe, the Golden Eagle is a sign of divinity and belonging. During a vision quest, the seeker is given a message via the Golden Eagle that he or she has a special connection with the eagle and has been chosen to become an eagle dancer.
The dance itself is tied to the legacy of Black Elk, a wonder worker and shaman who played an important role in uniting the Sioux tribes and advocating for their rights. The dance has many sacred rituals, including a feast for the eagles and a young woman who balances an egg on her forehead as an offering to the bird.
Every year, the Akimel O’otham Indian Community hosts an eagle dance in honor of St. Francis (who is also associated with animals) for 11 days. Chosen members of the community are tasked with dancing from sunrise to sunset.
The significance of this dance is rooted in an old legend about St. Francis, who was said to have been able to communicate with birds. When he saw Golden Eagles circling overhead, he melted their icy hearts by his presence and taught them about love.
It’s not just Native American tribes who see the Golden Eagle as a sign of spirituality or divine intervention. In Coatsville, Pennsylvania, parishioners of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church are treated to a sight of three Golden Eagle fledglings taking their first flights from their nests located on top of local buildings.
Local Catholics see this as a divine message because the fledglings are taking their first flights during Holy Week. They also see it as a message from Jesus Christ because eagles have long been associated with Christ’s resurrection due to their ability to soar high above the earth.
Eagles are also mentioned many times in the Bible and are often associated with strength and endurance because they are known for being able to fly at great heights for hours without tiring.
They are also seen as messengers who can bridge communication between humans and God. In fact, when Jesus was crucified, his last words were “Father into your hands I commend my spirit.” Moments later, an eagle flashed across the sky as both a sign of Christ’s ascension and God’s response.
Sign #6: Protection and Guidance
After all we’ve learned about the golden eagle, it’s no secret that they are the ultimate protectors.
Because of this, you may find that the presence of a golden eagle in your meditation represents a sign that you are protected and safe from any ill will or bad vibes from the outside world.
Golden eagles are also known to be fierce protectors of their families.
So if you are going through a time of transition or change in your life, a golden eagle may also be a sign that you are and will continue to be guided and supported by your family during this time.
What does it mean if you see an eagle flying?
If you see an eagle flying, this is often associated with some other positive messages and traits.
The freedom and ability to soar high into the sky on those big beautiful wings often represents the ability to look at situations or problems in your life from different angles.
If you are feeling particularly stuck, seeing an eagle in flight might be a sign to take a step back and try looking at things from a bird’s eye view. This could help provide the clarity needed to move forward.
What does it mean if you see two eagles flying together?
It is less common for two eagles to be seen together in the wild, but there is still a chance that it can happen. So let’s take a look at what it means if you see two eagles flying together.
When two eagles fly together, it might be a sign to take inventory of all of the positive traits that they represent. Reassessing your own personality and determining an action plan on how you can let more of those traits shine through can lead to increased personal growth and development.
In some cultures, seeing two eagles flying together can also symbolize unity or friendship. It can be considered good luck if you set out on an adventure with someone and spot two eagles together right at the beginning.
Sign #7: Connection to Higher Realms
Gold is the color of the Sacral and Solar Plexus chakras, symbolizing a connection to the spiritual realm.
While the Golden Eagle can help you heal and balance your energies in these chakras, it can also act as a bridge to higher spiritual realms, including unexplored layers of your own consciousness.
The Golden Eagle also has a connection to the sun and sun gods, such as Zeus, Apollo and Helios.
As a symbol of the sun, the Golden Eagle can help you connect to gods and goddesses that have dominion over various aspects of your spiritual health. For example, it may help you connect with Apollo for wisdom or Sol Invictus for courage.
But even without specific deities in mind, the eagle will still bring you comfort. The presence of an eagle during difficult times is a sign that the divine is watching over you and protecting you from harm.
Invitation to Connect with Higher Beings
The eagle will also serve as an intermediary between you and higher beings that want to connect with you.
Eagles are excellent communicators, meaning they can get any message across from below to above or vice versa.
So if there is an elevated being that wants to send you a message or guide you on your spiritual journey, they may use a golden eagle as their messenger.
Access to Your Inner Sun Child
In Roman mythology, Sol Invictus is the unconquered sun god who is represented by a golden eagle. This god represents the light within each person that can only be tamed by one’s self.
If Sol Invictus sounds familiar, that’s because Constantine adopted him as his patron god and declared an official holiday on December 25th. His celebration marked the end of Yule and signaled the beginning of Christmas.
Sol Invictus is a perfect representation of the golden eagle as both stand for spiritual power and inner transformation. When you connect with an eagle on a deeper level, you’ll get access to your inner sun child. This will give you spiritual power and your own ability to transform yourself into who you want to be.
The golden eagle is a remarkable creature that holds great spiritual significance in many cultures. Its symbolism of power, freedom, and spiritual connection resonates deeply with those who are drawn to the majestic bird. By understanding the signs and symbolic meanings associated with the golden eagle, we can gain a greater appreciation for its presence in our lives and tap into its spiritual wisdom. Whether you encounter the golden eagle in dreams, visions, or in the physical world, pay attention to the messages it brings and allow its energy to guide you on your spiritual journey.
